What to Pack for an International Marathon

Marathon preparation can be full of stress. Beyond the actual run, what you eat, where you’ll hydrate and the clothes you’ll wear are a few things you’ll need to think about. Although racing in another country is exciting, it can also increase your pre-race angst substantially. Fitting everything into your bag, thinking about pre and post-race plans, and taking nutrition and medication should definitely be added to your prep list. 

Even if you’re an experienced endurance athlete, the thought of packing for an international marathon might fill you with rising panic. Luckily, our experts have already been there, done it and can share tips to get you thoroughly prepped - including all the things you shouldn’t do!  

Five Marathon Packing Tips

Whether you’re tagging on a vacation post-race or are just staying over the night before, knowing how to pack the right amount of gear can be a real challenge. Taking these five steps will help keep you from feeling overwhelmed so you can focus on enjoying your race, and all that comes with it.

Check the Weather for the Whole Trip

You’ll no doubt have already checked the forecast for the race location (we’d recommend comparing a few different sources of information), but it’s important to consider pre and post-race conditions too. Just like any other trip, this will help you pack the most appropriate items and avoid overstuffing your case. 

The forecasted conditions will help you decide what gear is best for you. If the weather is questionable, choosing items with a good level of weather protection that can be layered to suit changing conditions is the way to go. 

Pack the Essentials First

When filling your case, prioritize adding the items you need for race day first. Your shirt, shorts or tights, socks, base layer and running shoes should be some of the first to enter your case. This should be followed by accessories you need such as a running belt or vest, cap and intra-race snacks and hydration. 

Then, you should add whatever you need for pre-race prep, including medications and comfortable shoes. You might also need a warmer layer ready for waiting at the start line. Finally, add in your post-race items including a roller or massage gun and a change of clothes with at least one warm layer. Even if it’s a hot, sunny day, this will ensure you’re comfortable and help your core temperature recover adequately. 

Don’t Worry About Over Packing 

This might be the only time when taking everything you could possibly need is recommended. Spare shoes, extra snacks and a complete first aid kit (including blister band aids and anti-chafing cream) are a good idea.

Accessories such as spare socks, sunglasses, a beanie and gloves may be needed, depending on the forecast. If the conditions look mixed, then don’t be afraid to take a range of items just in case. After all, you’ve gone to all the trouble of traveling internationally for your race, it would be a shame to have a sub-optimal experience because you were trying to save space in your bag!

You’re also likely to need lots of liquids (sunscreen, lip balm, gels) and electronics with you (don’t forget your international adaptor). So having decent-sized luggage and filling it up with more than you think you need is recommended. 

Remember You Can Buy Some Essentials

Even if your race route is fairly remote, chances are you’ll be staying somewhere with stores nearby. Take a look at the destination on Google Maps or ask the event organizers about potential places to buy essentials before you travel. That way, even if you find that an item’s missing when you arrive, you know exactly where to go to get a replacement. 

Don’t Leave it To Last Minute 

You’ve done all the hard work training for the race, so don’t let yourself down by packing in a rush. The last problem you need the night before you leave is finding out that your most comfortable shorts aren’t washed. Create a packing list a few days ahead of departure and get all your items together (and washed, in the case of your clothes) in advance. 

Then pack your carry-on bag with essentials two or three days ahead of time before getting your checked baggage together. That way, all you need to worry about the night before is getting a decent night’s sleep and doing a final check of your items. 

Carry On Luggage for Runners 

You should put all your race day essentials, including your race day kit, hydration, snacks, and accessories, in your carry on luggage. Having these items on you alongside your travel documents and valuables (keys, wallet and phone) means even if the worst happens and your checked baggage gets lost, all your prep won’t have gone to waste. 

Wear a warm layer and your running shoes onto the plane and throw in a few extra snacks, blister bandaids and chafe cream just in case. Here, your running belt or vest can double as extra wearable storage. 

Marathon Gear Checklist

Here's a comprehensive list of items you might need to get you started on your own packing list. Your final checklist may vary based on your race location and the expected weather:

Race Gear for Warm Weather 

To ensure you keep moving comfortably, no matter how much you sweat, having a top made from breathable, lightweight and moisture-wicking fabric is essential. This will help keep your skin dry and comfortable and help you avoid irritation or chafing. Opt for a short-sleeved tee or singlet depending on how much coverage you prefer. 

For the same reasons, your bottoms should be made from technical materials with the same qualities. Depending on which length you prefer, choose shorts or short tights or tights that are close-fitting but don’t restrict your movement. If they fit and feel like a second skin, then they’ll help you perform at your best in warmer conditions. 

Race Gear for Wet or Windy Weather 

If the forecast for your race is less than ideal, then you’ll need a little extra protection. But you need to keep the light rain, cold and wind out without being weighed down when you’re aiming for your personal record. Lightweight, windproof layers such as a vest or windbreaker offer just that. 

Easily packable (great for saving luggage space) and designed to offer next-to-skin comfort, they offer great weather protection with a barely-there feel.