What to buy for a darts tournament
A darts tournament needs more than boards and darts. You will also need reliable scoring supplies, refreshments, serving equipment and a clear registration setup for the day. Plan the shopping around your number of players, then add spares for anything that can stop a match: markers, score sheets, darts and power connections. Buy chilled drinks and fresh food close to the event, while prizes and disposable or reusable serving items should be ready several days earlier.
The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.
Tips
- Plan one scorecard or score sheet per match, plus at least 10 spare sheets. Bring several whiteboard markers and two erasers so scoring does not stop when one runs dry.
- Check the number of dart lanes before buying or borrowing equipment. Each lane needs a dartboard, a dart mat and a usable set of darts, with at least one spare set available for the tournament.
- For drinks, estimate two to three drinks per person during the first hour, then one to two per person for each additional hour. Chill the first batch before players arrive and keep extra drinks in coolers.
- Buy serving supplies for the full expected attendance rather than only the players. A practical minimum is one reusable cup and one plate per person, plus around 10% extra for replacements.
- Prepare the registration and refreshment areas before setup begins. Pack the participant list, scorecards, markers, trays, bowls and calculators together so they are available at least 30 minutes before the first match.
Frequently asked questions
- What do I need to buy for a darts tournament?
- Plan for dartboards, dart sets, dart mats, scoreboards, markers, erasers and spare darts. You will also need drinks, food, cups, plates, cutlery, serving trays and any prizes for the expected number of players and guests.
- How many darts do I need for a tournament?
- Provide one usable dart set for each active lane and keep at least one spare set available. If players bring their own darts, still prepare backup darts in case a set is lost or damaged.
- How much food and drink should I buy for a darts tournament?
- Allow two to three drinks per person for the first hour, followed by one to two drinks per person for every extra hour. For food, plan at least one serving per guest and add about 10% extra for late arrivals and larger appetites.
- When should I buy supplies for a darts tournament?
- Buy prizes, serving items, scoring supplies and backup equipment at least three to five days beforehand. Get chilled drinks and fresh food on the day before or the morning of the tournament, depending on storage space.