Marathon Checklist: 10 Things You Shouldn’t Forget to Bring

Whether you are a veteran or a beginner runner, there are some things that you should always have with you come race day. However, a lot of us forget to bring some of the most essential items which could have improved our racing experience.

In this article, we list down ten of the most important items that you should check if it’s in your backpack or baggage before you head out to the race venue. Below is our recommended marathon checklist of things you should bring:

1. Your Race Bib

The most important thing in your race kit inclusion is arguably the race bib. Many race organizers don’t allow runners without race bib on them. Even if you have other means to prove that you registered for the race, the official bib serves as your ticket to go to the starting line.

Important tip:

If you have decided what to wear during the race, you may want to pin the bib in that singlet, shirt or shorts before you step out of the house.

(Image via Love My Tri)

2. Road ID

In case something unfortunate happens to you during the race, it’s best if you have an ID with you. With it, race officials and medical personnel will be able to identify who you are and even allow them to contact your relatives and loved ones.

Don’t forget also to write your personal details at the back of your race bib for the same reasons. It’s important to include an emergency contact person and their contact details.

3. Energy Gels

One of the best ways to replenish your energy, these nifty race supplements will give you that extra boost to finish the race. Ideally, you may need to take two to four energy gels during the 42-kilometer stretch depending on your preference. Limit your consumption of energy gels to two per hour.

(Image via Ben Greenfield/ Pinterest)

For more info read -> complete guide to taking energy gels.

4. Loperamide

An upset stomach or LBM are two of the worse conditions you can experience before or during the race. As a precaution, you should take Loperamide tablet before the race to help you cope with the symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea.

While this works for the majority of the population, not everyone may have positive reaction to this medicine, especially if it’s used before the race. Its best consult a doctor or physician especially if you have an existing medical condition.

5. Anti-Chafe 

A long distance race causes a lot of friction in our skin particularly in the chest and between the legs. These can be quite irritating and sometimes even painful. As such, you need to apply Body Glide or anti-chafing cream to prevent this from happening.

(Image via Biancakarina)

Make sure to apply body glide to areas where skin-to-skin and skin-to-fabric friction occurs before the start of the race. If you need to know more about how to prevent skin abrasions here are -> top tips on how to prevent chafing.

6. Extra Money

You never know what’s going to happen before, during and after the race. Hence, it’s best if you have an extra amount of money which you can spend on these unforeseen consequences. Who knows you may need extra hydration or food right after the race.

Make sure that you have money with you all the time, just in case of the unfortunate event that you lost your belongings. To prevent this from happening, it’s best to deposit your bag and belongings to the baggage area.

7. Extra Snacks and Hydration

Sometimes the snacks and hydration provided by the organizers may not be enough to replenish your energy. Meanwhile, food concessionaires in the event area may charge extra for their products. It’s in your best interest to bring extra snacks and hydration, which you can buy cheaper on the grocery store.

(Image via REI-Co Op)

Also, if you have a favorite food or snack in mind, you can bring them along provided that they don’t spoil fast.

8. Ziplock Bags

These water-tight plastic bags are a necessity especially during the rainy season. Ziplock bags can store anything from food to your mobile phones and keep them dry at all times. If you are carrying your phone on your belt bag, you may want to place it in a small ziplock bag to prevent moisture creeping into your device.

9. Music

Finally, you may also want to listen to music during the run. Listening to songs can help you perform better as some extent, because they help you to concentrate and take your mind away from the pain. It also keeps your excitement and helps you to veer away from the negative thoughts.

Hence, you can bring your mobile phone (or any music device) and headphones and jive to the tune of your favorite songs while you run. And before you know it, you have crossed the finish line.

    10. Change of Clothes

Marathons and other races for that matter will make you sweat, like a lot. After the race you may want to clean yourself of sweat and change to a new set of clothing. This can help you manage the odor brought by your run and keep you look fresh.

You may also want to bring slippers or flip-flops if you want your feet to feel more comfortable after the race.

Marathons and other running events require not only training, but some planning and preparation. Your racing experience can be amplified if you have these items with you.

Did we miss any item that you personally carry with you during a race? Write down that item on the comment below and tell us why it’s important.

As always, keep on running you guys!

++Feature image credit: acupofkellen.com