What to Bring to a Hot Yoga Class – Full Checklist

If you're heading to your first hot yoga class—or even your tenth—you may be wondering what to pack, what to wear, and how to prepare for a heated room where you'll be moving, stretching, and sweating for up to an hour. At Hot Vessel, we welcome students of all levels, and we know that being prepared helps you feel more confident and focused during your practice.

This complete checklist will help you show up fully equipped and mentally ready for your next hot yoga session. Whether you're attending a Hot Yoga Flow, Hot Pilates, or a beginner-friendly Foundations class at our Crown Heights studio, this guide has you covered.

Here’s your definitive list of what to bring to a hot yoga class at Hot Vessel—or any other heated studio.

1. Yoga Mat

A solid, non-slip yoga mat is essential for maintaining grip in a hot environment.

What to look for:

High-density material with grip under sweaty conditions
At least 4–6 mm thick for joint support
Easy to clean after class

Studio tip: If you don’t have your own, mat rentals are available at Hot Vessel.

2. Large Towel or Yoga Mat Towel

You’ll be sweating—a lot. A towel helps absorb moisture, prevent slipping, and keep your space hygienic.

Two towel types to consider:

Mat-sized yoga towel: Covers your entire mat and grips when wet
Small face towel: Helps wipe sweat between poses

Studio tip: A towel is mandatory in heated classes at many studios, including ours.

3. Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration is key before, during, and after class.

Best practices:

Bring a large, refillable bottle
Consider adding electrolyte tablets or powder
Avoid carbonated or sugary drinks

Drinking during class is okay—just take small sips, and try not to gulp to avoid nausea.

4. Moisture-Wicking, Fitted Workout Clothing

Hot yoga is not the time for loose, cotton-heavy fabrics. Choose clothing that moves with you and wicks away moisture.

Recommended attire:

Women: Sports bra or moisture-wicking tank + leggings or shorts
Men: Sweat-resistant t-shirt or tank + fitted shorts

Avoid cotton, which holds moisture and becomes heavy and uncomfortable mid-class.

5. Change of Clothes

After class, you’ll likely be drenched. A full change of dry clothes makes your exit more comfortable—especially in colder seasons.

Studio tip: Bring a plastic or reusable bag for your sweaty gear to avoid soaking the rest of your belongings.

6. Flip-Flops or Easy Slip-On Shoes

You’ll be barefoot in the studio, so shoes need to be easy to take off and store. Flip-flops or slides are ideal for moving quickly in and out of the space.

7. Toiletries (Optional but Helpful)

If your studio offers showers or changing rooms—like Hot Vessel does—you might want to bring:

Travel-size shampoo and soap
Deodorant
Face wipes or cleanser
Dry shampoo
Hair tie or headband

Even if you’re not showering on-site, a quick freshen-up helps you feel better heading into the rest of your day.

8. Mat Cleaner or Disinfectant Spray (Optional)

After sweating it out, your mat will need cleaning. Some students bring a small spray bottle with a mat-safe cleaner and a microfiber towel.

Studio tip: Hot Vessel also provides mat cleaning spray at the front desk for public use.

9. Pre-Class Snack (If Needed)

Practicing hot yoga on a full stomach is uncomfortable, but a completely empty stomach can also be distracting. If you're practicing early in the day or after a long gap between meals, bring a light pre-class snack.

Best options:

A banana
A handful of almonds
A smoothie or protein shake

Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods before class.

10. An Open Mind

Hot yoga isn’t just a workout—it’s a mental discipline and a personal challenge. Every class is different. Some days you’ll feel strong and fluid. Other days you’ll feel exhausted. That’s normal.

What matters is showing up, breathing, and staying present. The rest will follow.

What happens if I forget my towel or mat?

Don’t worry. Hot Vessel offers mat and towel rentals for a small fee. We’ve got you covered.

Can I drink water during class?

Yes, and we encourage it. Just take small sips and stay mindful of the flow of the class.

What should I avoid wearing?

Avoid cotton, loose-fitting clothes, or anything that becomes heavy when wet. Stick to performance fabrics that dry quickly.

Should I eat before class?

Eat light if needed—nothing heavy or spicy. Try to finish eating at least 90 minutes before class.

How early should I arrive?

Arrive 10–15 minutes early to get settled, adjust to the heat, and check in without rushing.

Now that you know what to bring to hot yoga, you’re one step closer to a confident, focused, and powerful experience on the mat. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, showing up prepared helps you make the most of every breath, movement, and drop of sweat.

Book your next class at Hot Vessel:
https://www.hotvessel.com/class-schedule

First-timer? Learn about our beginner-friendly options and specials here:
https://www.vesselstudios.yoga/

Visit us at: 1069 Bergen St, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Call: (917) 214-2603

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New to hot yoga? Here's a complete checklist of what to bring to class at Hot Vessel in Crown Heights so you're fully prepared to sweat, move, and thrive.

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