Destination Race Essentials: What to Pack & How to Prepare for a Smooth Race Weekend

Destination races are an amazing way to combine your love of running with your love of travel.

But traveling for a race adds extra logistics to consider.

Packing the right essentials and having a solid race weekend plan can help ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

Top 5 Items to Pack for a Destination Race

1. Socks & Sneakers

Can these be bought in a pinch? Surely.

But I try to abide by the mantra “nothing new on race day”.

To be sure, if I forgot my running sneakers, I would absolutely buy a new pair.

2. Throwaway Clothes

If you will be running in cooler or cold weather, pack along some throwaway layers so that you can keep warm while waiting at the start line.

I keep a small pile for donation in my closet (sweatshirts, sweaters, long sleeve shirts), and will grab one of these to wear to race morning, tossing it just before I cross the start line. Most races donate the clothing that is left along the course.

One additional tip: Save the mylar blankets that are given out at the end of races, reusing them in the future to keep warm on a chilly race morning. And, they can be stuffed easily into the corner of a suitcase!

3. Sun Protection

Sunscreen is always a great idea on a daily basis!

For destination races, think about a way to tote a small amount to reapply mid-race if you are going to be running in the sunshine for a few hours. A small roll-on stick can be helpful here. I’ve also put liquid sunscreen into a tiny plastic snack bag and placed it in my pocket.

Don’t forget your sunglasses and possibly a hat or visor to shield your face from the sun!

4. Fuel & Hydration

This category includes type of fuel, how you will carry it, and mode of carrying water. 

Be sure to review the race information beforehand, to see what fuel and aid stops may or may not be provided on course. If something is offered on course, and you practice with this fuel in training, you may not need to pack along extra. But if you know that, for example, you can’t stomach the gels provided on course, you may want to think about bringing along the fuel that you know works well for you.

In addition, will the water stops provided on course be enough for your hydration needs? If not, think about carrying your own water in a handheld bottle.

5. A Positive Attitude

This is, absolutely, the most important item on my list! Lots of things can go awry with traveling, and sometimes, things don’t quite go as planned. If you should get to your destination and realize you’ve forgotten one of the material items on your list, or should the airline lose your luggage, step one is not to panic. I would venture a guess that everything on this list could be bought at the last minute. This mindset carries over into race day as well.

A destination race is an exciting way to see a new place while doing what you love.

With the right packing list and a solid pre-race plan, you can set yourself up for a fantastic race-day experience.

Save this list for your next destination race!