Useful tools to make you the most prepared & resourceful PA on set.
Hi! I'm a Production Assistant based in Boston, MA.
After years of trying to break into the entertainment industry, I finally started working in film last spring, on a little indie called Challengers (2023).
I spent months beforehand scouring the internet to prepare for the moment I got my foot in the door- blogs, Reddit threads, YouTube videos– you name it.
I had a modest start in the Health & Safety department, but I still wanted to look like I knew what I was doing if someone asked me to step outside that role. I used those resources to build myself a decent PA kit which has served me very well over my first year in the industry.
I wanted to try and create a catch-all starter list that I would've appreciated a few years back. Some items are geared toward working in the northeast, though most are universal and would serve a West-Coaster just as well.
This blog is entirely self-indulgent at the moment. No recommendation on this list is sponsored. Whether you're preparing to make the jump or a seasoned crew member looking to expand, here are my set essentials.
CLOTHING
Layers. Layers. Layers.
If there's any bit of advice you take away from this post, let it be the reminder that you should dress in easily removable pieces of clothing. A frigid morning doesn't stay cold when you're running around a big set. Sunny exterior shots can quickly get washed out by a freak afternoon thunderstorm.
Hoodies. Overshirts. If you can pull off the hiking pants that turn into shorts, even better. Layering is imperative to staying comfortable, and comfort is your best friend during 12-14 hour days.
RAIN SUIT
I have this Baleaf rain set, which handles freak showers just fine. It did not hold up during Taylor Swift's rain show in Foxboro, so I suggest investing a little more if your environment is prone to stronger storms.
WATERPROOF SHOES
Good shoes can make or break a day. You don't have to blow a band, but do invest a little. (And be prepared for it to be a semi-annual expense.) Hiking/work oriented shoes are your best friend, as most are waterproof and will provide support.
I like to keep two pairs handy; one on my feet, and another in the trunk of my car in case I need to change. One boot type, one sneaker style. Keep colors neutral.
I'm partial to Merrell and Columbia, though I've seen the following brands at work:
On Clouds
New Balance
Oboz
HOKA
Sketchers
HEATED JACKET
I didn't know these existed until starting work on a television series late last year. As temperatures dropped below freezing, my Ororo heated jacket made all the difference when we shot on location. Three intensity levels allow you to adjust as needed.
My trick for preserving battery life was setting it to high for a few minutes, and then switching to a low level once there was enough residual warmth.
ITEMS
BACKPACK
A backpack lets you store supplies you don't need on hand at all times, but use often enough to want to keep close. Also, depending on what department you're in and the project's budget, you may need to bring in a laptop/phone/etc. into work with you. (Make sure you get that kit fee, though!)
I use the 15'' Matein Travel Laptop Backpack as my main. It's got plenty of storage, a dedicated laptop pouch with a safety strap, and a hookup for a portable charger in one of its main compartments.
What I keep in it:
Laptop
Portable charger(s)
Clipboard (with storage)
Pain relievers
Mini first aid kit
Deodorant/perfume
Water bottle
Umbrella
Small tools (screwdriver with removable head, travel tape measure)
Hygienic supplies
Raincoat & pants
Emergency outfit (+ ESPECIALLY SOCKS)
FANNY PACK/DROP LEG POUCH
No one wants to carry a backpack around all day, but sometimes pockets just don't cut it. A good pack lets you keep all the essentials close and stay mobile.
I use the Jueachy Drop Leg Bag for Men for its spacious main compartment, abundant pockets, and because the side pouch is perfectly sized for a walkie-talkie.
Supplies I keep within arms reach:
Pens/pencils
Scratch pad
Portable charger & cord
Folding knife/swiss army
Surveillance
Gum or mints
Lighter
GO-BAG & SLEEPING SUPPLIES
Having a "sleepover bag" in my trunk has saved me many times. I have a pillow and a warm top sheet that I've used both in a wood cabin and to take many naps in my backseat.
For my go-bag, I keep it simple; a secondary outfit, a pair of pajamas, and a travel kit. Whether you get a surprise chance to stay on location for a night, or get rained out, you'll be thankful for the reserve!
OPTIONAL: CAR MAINTENANCE
This might be a bit overkill, but as a woman and someone driving a 15-year-old car, I wanted to be prepared for any potential issues. These supplies are useful outside of work purposes too, but also give me peace of mind that I'll be able to make it to the job barring a total catastrophe.
AIR COMPRESSOR
Colder months in New England usually mess with my tire pressure. Being able to top off quickly and without needing to wrangle a hose at a gas station is ideal. I use this bahradody one, which can also be used on other tire-based vehicles.
PORTABLE JUMP BATTERY
I thankfully haven't needed this for work purposes just yet, but it has saved my car after it died in two other instances. There's a certain rush in being able to restart it solo. Not planning on becoming a mechanic anytime soon, but I get it now. I use the NOCO Boost Plus GB40 model, which works for my 2008 Subaru.
It also doubles as a flashlight/SOS signal, AND a portable charger in a pinch! It was a lifesaver during a power outage a few months back.
Be sure to double-check your vehicle's requirements to see which size battery pack is required to resuscitate it!
CAR VACCUM
Again, overkill. I don't live in filth, but as someone with a cat and who just finished a stint as a locations PA, it's nice to be able tidy up the seats and floor if someone else has to perceive my vehicle.
I use ThisWorx Small 12V Handheld Portable Car Vacuum and give my car a passthrough every few days. (More often once fall debris creeps in.)
TRASH CAN
Same deal as the vacuum. This hangs on the back of my passenger headrest to collect errant receipts, straws, protein bar wrappers, and everything else in between. This Femuar bag is waterproof for easy cleaning.
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