With BDR Safety Harbor right around the corner, it’s a great time to talk about our top racecation tips. We love combining races with travel, so this is a topic that’s right up our alley (or runway, as the case may be). Let’s pack our bags and hit the road!
Pack All The Things
Typically, I prefer to be a bit more intentional about what I pack, but racecations are not the time to be a minimalist. On race day, I want to be prepared for everything. While it may be easy to get to a store for a forgotten hat, sunglasses, or even a jacket or shorts, I prefer not to take chances. Depending on where you are (and if you have access to a vehicle), you might not be able to get your hands on anything. And no one likes to try to scrounge up a pair of running shoes a day or two before race morning because you forgot them!
Be Clear On Your Race Instructions
Prior to my racecation, I always want to know exactly what I need to do and where I need to be. Is there morning of packet pickup? Do I need to bring my own water bottle or are cups provided on course? Will I need to show ID when I get my bib or carry it with me for race day beers? What are the procedures for gear check? Talk to me about parking? By having all the facts and info, I can ensure that all my arrangements are made in advance to make race day as stress-free as possible.
Plan Your Meals In Advance
For those of us who thrive on routine, make sure you have access to all your race weekend favorites before you go. If you need a few slices of pizza the night before, find the best pizzeria by your hotel to fill that craving. Is there a coffee shop that is open early enough for you to snag your pre-race coffee and bagel? If not, be sure to stock up at a grocery store when you get to town. Want to celebrate? Get reservations at the coolest place around, but be sure to leave time to shower and change!
Make Some Time To Explore
Even though you’re in town for the purpose of a race, be sure to get out and see the sights, especially if you’re visiting somewhere new. Stretch your legs and explore the area. It will be great to work out any post-race soreness, as well as give you a fantastic lay of the land.
What are your favorite racecation tips?
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Well, I do love a good race cation too! Agree that it’s better to pack options bc the weather is so unpredictable. I also like to have a plan in place for restaurants and activities.
My friend is on lock for this weekend’s restaurants and bars, but it’s going to be great.
This is such a solid racecation checklist, especially the packing advice! I always think I can get away with packing light, but the last-minute panic of “Did I bring my favorite socks?” is never worth it.
And planning meals ahead is key—nothing worse than realizing your go-to pre-race meal isn’t an option. Do you have a favorite post-race celebratory meal when you travel?
You just never know how you will feel on race day, and we all know… if that sports bra isn’t working, it’s going to make your race MISERABLE!
As far as post race meal, I’m usually down for a cheeseburger. We don’t eat red meat at home, and it’s not something we go out for either (due to Mr PugRunner’s kidney issues), so if I can celebrate, that’s what I want. However, I’m not picky, and sometimes, I’ll let my mood dictate.
Traveling for a race can be stressful! I’ll never forget when I ran the Houston marathon we got in a few days before the race and the forecast changed alot, and I was not prepared for the conditions. It can be tricky but having plenty of options is good!
We had the same several times! Once we did ZOOMA Amelia Island. We knew it would be cold, but the temps dropped to the 20s out of nowhere. And then at the DONNA half a few years back, the weather was gorgeous until we got to our hotel (in Jax, so local, but not), and we had to run to Target for rain jackets and long sleeves and still froze. No thank you.
I do love race-cations.
Pack for ALL weather.
Bring your pre-race meal.
Remember to have fun before and after the race.
Yup. We always try to bring a bagel or something for race morning.
And fun is the best part!