So, you’ve signed up for your first paintballing experience—brilliant! Whether you’re going with mates, joining a stag or hen do, or just trying something new, you’re in for an adrenaline-fuelled day. But let’s be honest: turning up unprepared can leave you bruised, confused, and out of the game quicker than you can shout “Hit!” No worries though, we’ve got you covered. These ten beginner-friendly tips will help you feel more confident, stay safer, and have a whole lot more fun.
1. Dress for the Game, Not the Gram
Leave your fashion-forward outfits at home. Paintballing is messy, sweaty, and sometimes muddy, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting stained. Go for loose layers that’ll soften the sting of paintballs and keep you warm or cool depending on the weather. Long sleeves and full-length trousers are a must.
Pro tip: Gloves are your best friend. Paintballs on bare fingers? Not fun.
2. Safety First – Always
It may look like a laugh (and it is), but paintballing is a contact sport with some real risks if you’re careless. Rule number one: never take your mask off while on the field. Ever.
Listen to the marshals, follow their instructions, and treat your marker (paintball gun) with respect. A little caution goes a long way in keeping everyone safe.
3. Move Like a Ninja (Well, Almost)
Standing in the open like a statue? Rookie move. Success in paintballing is all about movement—crouching, running, ducking, and diving behind cover. Always keep an eye on the terrain and use obstacles to your advantage.
And remember: fast, short bursts of movement are often safer than staying still.
4. Communicate With Your Team
Even if you’ve never met your teammates before, talking to them during the game is key. A simple “cover me” or “enemy on the left” can completely shift the tide of battle. Coordination = domination.
Don’t fancy shouting? Hand signals and nods work too.
5. Aim Smart, Not Wild
You might be tempted to empty your hopper in a blaze of glory, but that’ll leave you paint-less and panicked. Instead, pick your shots. Take your time, aim carefully, and try to conserve your ammo for when it really counts.
A single well-aimed shot is better than ten wasted ones.
6. Keep Your Head Down (Literally)
Curiosity might get you clipped. Constantly popping your head up to peek is a quick way to get marked. Stay low, lean out slowly, and use your peripheral vision as much as possible.
Let your cover do the work, and never expose more of yourself than you have to.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Get Hit
Yes, it stings. Yes, it might leave a bruise. But getting hit is part of the game—and honestly, it’s not nearly as bad as you might think. Once you’ve taken your first shot, the fear usually fades.
Plus, you’ll have a cracking story to tell afterwards.
8. Check Your Marker (Paintball Gun)
Most venues will set up your marker for you, but it’s still good practice to double-check. Make sure the barrel is clear, the air tank is secure, and your hopper is loaded. Test fire a few shots if you’re allowed to before the match starts.
And don’t be afraid to ask staff for help—they’re there for a reason.
9. Bring Water and Snacks
Paintballing is surprisingly physical, especially during longer matches. Bring a bottle of water and a snack for the breaks between games. Staying hydrated and fuelled will help keep your reaction times sharp and your focus on point.
Your future self will thank you.
10. Have a Laugh, Even If You Lose
At the end of the day, paintballing is about fun—not medals. You’ll make mistakes, probably get ambushed, and maybe even trip over a bush or two. Embrace it! The laughs and the unexpected moments are often the most memorable.
So even if you get taken out in the first minute—smile, reload, and get ready for the next round.
Starting out in paintball can feel a bit daunting, but with these tips under your belt, you’ll be better prepared, safer, and more likely to come away grinning (even if a little sore). The most important rule? Have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously.
Have you tried paintballing before? Got your own beginner story—or maybe a hilarious first-time fail? Drop it in the comments below—we’d love to hear it!