The Ultimate Guide to Pickleball and Travel

django unchained
Sep 16
3 min read

Updated: Nov 4

Why Travel + Pickleball Is a Perfect Combo

Stay Consistent: Maintain fitness while away from home.
Meet People: Join local games and make new friends.
Explore New Cultures: See how pickleball is played in different countries.

At Xurge, we see travel as an expansion of your court — every city, a new rally waiting to happen.

Packing for Travel-Friendly Pickleball

When preparing for your pickleball adventures, packing smart is essential. Here are some tips to ensure you have everything you need without overloading your luggage.

Lightweight Paddle: Choose a carbon or composite paddle that fits in your carry-on. This will save space and make travel easier.
Portable Net: Collapsible mini-nets are great for beach or park play. They are easy to set up and take down.
Balls: Pack both indoor and outdoor balls, as surfaces vary from place to place.
Shoes: Bring multi-court shoes for unknown surfaces. Comfort and grip are key.

Xurge Tip: Always carry at least two balls — one for play and one as a backup.

Finding Courts Abroad

Finding places to play while traveling can enhance your experience. Here are some effective methods to locate courts in new cities.

1. Use Apps & Directories

Global Pickleball Network (GPN): Search city-wise for courts.
Places2Play (US): Check updated court listings.
Meetup/FB Groups: Local clubs often post play times and events.

2. Hotels & Resorts

Many hotels are now adding pickleball courts, especially in the US, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Check with your accommodation before you arrive.

3. Community Parks

Search local recreation centers. Most major cities have free or low-cost courts available for public use.

Connecting with Players Internationally

Making connections with local players can enrich your travel experience. Here are some ways to meet fellow pickleball enthusiasts.

Social Media: Post on Instagram or Threads asking for games. Use local hashtags to reach interested players.
Drop-In Play: Pay small fees to join rotating sessions. This is a great way to meet players quickly.
Xurge Community: Coming soon — a global map of courts curated by players like you. Stay tuned for updates!

Playing on Different Surfaces

Understanding how to adapt to different playing surfaces is crucial for maintaining your game.

Outdoor Asphalt: Expect a faster bounce. Adjust your footwork accordingly.
Indoor Gym Floors: These provide a softer bounce, resulting in a slightly slower game.
Clay/Gravel (rare): Rallies tend to be slower, and you should watch for uneven bounces.

Travel play is about adaptability — learning to leap in new conditions.

Cultural Etiquette Abroad

Respecting local customs is important when playing pickleball in different countries. Here are some tips to ensure a positive experience.

Learn local play customs, such as handshakes, paddle taps, and calling rules.
Respect rotation systems; many places use paddle stacking.
Offer to rotate in with strangers. This is a great way to integrate and make new friends.

Xurge encourages travelers to treat every court as a cultural exchange, not just a competition.

Tips for Enhancing Your Game While Traveling

1. Set Goals

Before your trip, set specific goals for your pickleball game. Whether it’s improving your serve or playing with new people, having clear objectives can enhance your experience.

2. Document Your Journey

Keep a travel journal or blog about your pickleball experiences. This not only helps you remember your adventures but also connects you with others who share your passion.

3. Stay Flexible

Travel can be unpredictable. Be open to changes in your plans, whether it’s a new court or a different style of play. Embrace the adventure!

Quick Recap

Pack light but complete: paddle, shoes, and balls.
Use apps and local groups to find courts.
Embrace different surfaces and play styles.
Connect with players to make the world your pickleball club.

Your game shouldn’t stay home when you travel. Take Xurge with you — every new court is a chance to GO FOR IT in a new place.