After all this time, it seems we can finally pack for running trips again! Maybe it’s just taking a road trip to a new location, or it could be an actual, full-on racacation. Who’s excited? I know I am! Running trips are my favorite and any time I get to load up my gear to run elsewhere is a great time by me!
But what to pack? What to bring?
Socks + Shoes
No matter what, socks and shoes should be the first things in your bag. Pro tip: make sure you have a right and a left, preferably from the same pair (don’t ask). Shoes are the most important part of any running kit, and probably the hardest (and most expensive) thing to replace in a pinch. If you’ve got the shoes and socks covered, the rest is easy.
The Right Outfit
Once the shoes are covered, your ideal running outfit should be next in the suitcase. You’ll want the clothes that make you most comfortable, and suit the weather forecast of your destination. Make sure you’ve got a top, bottom, and a sports bra if needed. And if you think you might change your mind about what to wear, grab a few extra items from your fitness wardrobe. It’s great to pack light, but it’s even better to feel prepared.
Time For The Extras
Now it’s time for all the little extras. Hats, headphone, sunglasses, you know… the essentials that will throw your entire run off if you forget them. Maybe it’s your phone case, or your lucky compression sleeves. You need them. Gather them up, bag them, and tuck them away in your belongings. If you are flying, these are probably best located in your carryon so other don’t go missing (or even ear them on your flight).
Chargers
Few things are worse than getting to your destination and realizing that your smart watch or headphones are almost out of power… and you left your chargers at home. Pack them up and bring them along for the ride! And be sure to charge your electronics when you get to where you’re going!
Fuel! AKA Snacks!
If you’re like me, you have pretty specific things you like to eat before and during your run. If you’re not sure you’ll be able to easily get those things, bring them with you. Not having the right fuel can certainly lead to some fairly unpleasant issues on the run, so be proactive and be prepared. Have a hydration belt, vest, or bottle? Get that in there, too!
The Rest Of The Haul
Make sure you’ve got some of the littler things: deodorant, sunscreen, body glide or other anti-chafing remedy. Have your favorite roller or go-to recovery tools. I always like to have a towel and a change of shirt, just in case I’m getting back in a car.
And there you have it! Who’s ready to go?
How do you pack for your running trips?
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Yes! Me! I’m ready to go! It’s an exciting time, now that we can start traveling again. These are all great tips- the shoe thing is funny. You’d think it would be the most obvious thing in the world, but how many people have forgotten their shoes or packed two left shoes??? It happens.
Such a pretty suitcase!
Yes to prioritizing the shoes! Everything else can be improvised, but without shoes (or two left ones) things get difficult.
Fortunately, I have never forgotten the Garmin charger… imagine a run without tracking it! What a disaster!
me! I am excited for my running travel trip in a few weeks! hope you had fun
I have several packing cubes, including one for chargers — tha5 was, in fact, one of the things it took me so long to locate for our last trip (the one for the chargers). It really helps me organize although it does take up a little extra room.
I once brought 2 of the same side shoes to my moms. I had 2 pairs of the same shoes in the same color!
Chocolaterunsjudy recently posted…My Secret Weapon
Great reminders! Its been so long since I traveled for a race. I dont even remember the last time- maybe it was back for my last marathon in 2015? Im not sure we will be traveling any time soon, but one day eventually it will happen again!
I pack my running stuff before the other clothes.
I make sure I have outfits for all temps. Forecasts change.
I did travel during the pandemic so I’m good.
I can’t wait until all the restrictions are gone.
I used to pack my gear for a running trip almost without thinking about it. Now I feel like I’m starting over and will need lots of lists!
The phone charger is the most-often forgotten, of everything. I’ve gotten in the habit of putting it in the outside (zippered) pocket of my carry-on (if flying). That way, it’s accessible for charging while waiting to board the plane or on layover.
A few times, I’ve grabbed two different running shoes. Once I had two lefts so had to buy new ones! For races/racecations, I wear my shoes on the plane! I always bring a change of clothes and usually tank/sleeves/sleeveless and compression socks!
I always pack running stuff first for a trip (well, and now toddler stuff!). We are traveling for my fall marathon so I will need to remember how to pack for a race again.