Packing for a destination race can be tough. Not only do you need to make sure you have virtually anything you may need before, after or during the race, but you also need to make sure it gets to your destination! (Or fits in a carry-on.) Add in multiple races and it may seem daunting.
Here are a few of our packing tips for the multi-day runDisney challenges!
Separate it out. While you may be able to pack for one race easily, it gets easier to forget something when there are multiple races involved. Buy some large Ziploc bags and separate items out for each race. This way you know you have everything you need (from fuel to socks) for each race! Not to mention, it makes the night before a race a whole lot more simple.
Bring multiple pairs of shoes. No matter what challenge you are running, be sure to bring at least two pairs of shoes. That way, if it rains or if your shoes are rubbing your feet wrong – you have a back up pair. Just make sure you train in the shoes you bring as well!
Expect the unexpected. While the weather forecast may look one way a few days prior to the races, weather can change quickly. Even though you may never need it, bring gear for any weather – rain, cold, humidity, you name it. Yes, it means packing more, but if some crazy weather comes along – it’s better to be prepared.
Double (or triple or quadruple) everything. For these multi-day challenges, you need to make sure you have enough of every running item. Socks, clothes, fuel – the list goes on and on. Make sure that you have enough for each race by doubling, tripling or quadrupling everything (depending on the number of races you are running). And when it comes to the necessities, bring more than you think you will need. Too much is better than not enough when it comes to runDisney challenges!
Take a look at the Expo vendors. While you should absolutely bring the shoes and clothes you have been training in (remember – nothing new on race day!), there are some items you can purchase at the Expo to lighten the luggage load. Look over the Official Event Guide and see what vendors will be at the Expo. You may be able to purchase your fuel, Body Glide and other small necessities at the Expo, instead of packing them in your luggage.
Don’t forget your chargers. With multiple race days, your electronics will be getting a lot of use! Make sure that you bring your chargers for EVERYTHING – phone, GPS watch, external battery, iPod, camera, etc. The last thing you want is for one (or more) of your electronics to run out of battery at the end of the first race!
Bring recovery items too. It’s very easy to focus on what you will need for your race days. However, don’t forget to bring items to help you recover in between the races as well! Compression gear, foam rollers, Biofreeze – pack the gear that helped during your training. And if you are running more than two days, bring extra!
Soon all of the training and packing will be worth it when you cross that finish line multiple times! (Don’t forget to sign up and receive our FREE runDisney packing list!)
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