THINGS TO DO

Heading to the Speedway? Here's how to pack for the track

Amy Haneline, and Stephen J. Beard
INDY

Attending events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, whether it be the inaugural Grand Prix, Carb Day or the Indy 500, is an exciting way to spend a day in Indy. But a quick way to ruin that trip is to go unprepared.

Packed coolers for the Indianapolis 500 2013.

Here is a checklist of items to pack for a day at the track. For more on the Speedway's gate entry search policy, visit indianapolismotorspeedway.com.

For your cooler:

Coolers must not exceed 18 inches by 14 inches by 14 inches. If it does not meet this requirement, you will be asked to walk the oversized cooler back to your car. Carts and wagons are allowed except on Race Day. Glass containers are not allowed.

-Bottles of water

-Ice packs

-Sandwiches

-Fruit (grapes, melon)

-Pop (If you prefer, but be sure to stay hydrated!)

-Beer/alcoholic beverages (If you prefer and only if you are 21 years or older. Be sure to stay hydrated.)

Other items to bring:

In a bag no larger than 18 inches by 14 inches by 14 inches, you may want to bring the following:

-Tickets

-Seat cushion

-Umbrella/rain poncho

-Sunscreen

-Hand-held fan

-Hat

-Sunglasses

-Small trash bags

-Napkins

-Moist towelettes

-Hand sanitizer

-Headset radio

-Extra batteries

-Ear plugs/noise-canceling headphones

-Binoculars

-Koozies

-Chips, cookies, granola bars and other snack foods

Tips:

-Freeze bottled water ahead of time. It will act as an ice pack for your cooler and will be ready for drinking as it thaws throughout the day.

-Smucker's Uncrustables are a good mid-day snack. The frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches will thaw during the day.

-Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be surprised with the amount of walking you'll do.

Did we forget something? Have any other tips? Let us know in the comments.

Follow Amy Haneline onTwitter,FacebookandInstagram. Call her at (317) 444-6281.