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Budgeting for a horse show
Know what drives the cost before you enter, and track what you actually spend.
Start with the categories
Costs vary a great deal by region, discipline, level and show size, so check the prize list for real numbers. The table below shows what usually drives the total.
| Category | What drives the cost |
|---|---|
| Class entries | Number of classes, level, and any added fees for late entry |
| Office and administrative fees | Show office, drug-testing or facility fees, and association fees, listed in the prize list |
| Stalls, shavings and hay | Number of nights, and whether bedding and hay are included or ordered separately |
| Trainer and coaching fees | Day fees, travel time and any lessons at the show |
| Braiding and grooming help | Number of horses, and whether you braid yourself |
| Travel | Distance, fuel, tolls, trailer costs and hotel nights |
| Memberships and registrations | Rider, horse and owner memberships that must be current |
| Tips and extras | Groom, braider, ring crew, photographer and food |
Fill in your own worksheet
Copy this into a note or print the page and add real figures from your prize list.
| Item | Estimate | Actual |
|---|---|---|
| Entries | ||
| Office fees | ||
| Stalls, shavings, hay | ||
| Trainer | ||
| Braiding and grooming | ||
| Travel and lodging | ||
| Tips and extras | ||
| Total |
Ways to keep the total down
- Enter before the closing date to avoid late fees.
- Pre-order shavings and hay if the show offers a discount, and compare with bringing your own.
- Share a stall, trailer or grooming help with a barn mate where the rules allow it.
- Do your own braiding once you are comfortable with it.
- Track actual costs after each show so the next budget starts from real numbers.
Start with the paperwork
The first items on the checklist are the entries, stalls and transport that set most of your costs.
Take the checklist to the barn
Five printable pages covering paperwork, packing, show day and the ride home. Free, no sign-up.