Simple Tips for Running Lifestyles

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When you’ve spent months training for a race, especially one you’re flying to, the last thing you want is to show up without your gear. There are so many factors that can go wrong with airport travel. Luggage gets lost. Flights get delayed. Suitcases take unexpected detours.

With that said, here’s my number one travel tip for runners:

Always pack your race day kit in your carry-on bag.

You’ve put in the work and it’s finally time to enjoy your special race day. Whether you’re heading to a domestic racecation or flying internationally, this one simple habit can save your entire weekend. Even if your checked bag ends up in the wrong city, you’ll still have everything you need to get to the start line.

What Should Go in Your Carry-On?

First, start with a great bag! This puffy tote shoulder bag is one of my favorite finds. I carry it to work everyday and it is incredibly durable.

Think of your carry-on as your race day insurance policy. Here’s what I always make sure to pack:

• Race Outfit – Include all of your race day pieces including your shirt, sports bra, shorts/tights, and socks.
• Running Shoes – Yes, they’re bulky! You should never trust them to checked luggage. Wear them if it helps with space in your bag.
• Fuel and Nutrition – Pack all of your gels, chews, race day breakfast, or anything you’re used to consuming before your race (especially if you’re racing internationally).
• Watch or GPS Tracker – Include your cords so you’re charged and ready to go on race day.
• Race Day Accessories – Pack your hat, sunglasses, anti-chafe stick, compression sleeves or any costume pieces.
• Throwaway Layer or Rain Poncho – A poncho can be a lifesaver for hanging out in the corral, not just if rain is even remotely possible.
• Earbuds or Headphones – Remembering these are crucial if you rely on music for your races.
• Safety Pins or Bib Belt – Your race will likely provide safety pins but it’s a good precaution.

I have made it my mission to figure out the perfect formula for what to include in a carry-on bag, find the carry-on bag essentials here.

Pro Tip: If you’re flying internationally, pack your passport and race confirmation bib info in the same pouch as your kit so everything is together. Keep track of your passport with this passport holder that connects to your Find My app.

How I Keep My Travel Bag Organized

To my carry-on, I use packing cubes to separate my race gear from the rest of my carry-on items. I like to put my full outfit all in the same pouch. Think socks, top, bottoms, sports bra, and accessories. It makes things simple and satisfying.

You can also use a clear pouch or a shoe bag to store your fuel and small items to keep them organized.

My go-to carry-on organization tools:

• Bagsmart Packing Cubes Set – lightweight and perfect for compression packing! Find them here on Amazon.
  
• Clear Travel Cosmetic Bag – These TSA-friendly pouches are perfect for liquids. They come in a 3-pack if you like organizing loose items in your bag or gels/snacks. Find them here on Amazon.
  
• Cord Organizer – A nice way to keep all your electronic gadgets and cords neat and organized. Find it here on Amazon.

The Extras I Add to My Travel Kit

Once my race gear is packed, I add a few recovery-friendly travel items to my carry-on too:

• Compression Socks – game changer on long flights and also great for post-race recovery. Check out this pair!
• Slippers for a Relaxing Flight – This pair of slippers is comfortable and slips on easily!
• Reusable Water Bottle — Bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it at a water station in the terminal.
• Travel-Sized Massage Tools – The Original Stick is my go-to massage tool on the road. It’s perfect because it works like a foam roller but you can use it standing up. I also always pack my mini massage tool for post-race relief.
• Portable Charger — A life saver for charging all your electronics including your watch, phone, and wireless earbuds. Check out this portable battery on Amazon.

One Last Reminder Before You Fly

You can re-buy most things, like deodorant, a toothbrush or snacks if your suitcase gets lost. But running shoes you’ve trained in for 12+ weeks? There’s no way you can replace that the day before. Pack smart and you’ll thank yourself later.

If you’re prepping for a racecation soon, I’ve linked all my favorite travel gear in my Amazon storefront  so you can build your own pre-race travel kit.

Related Post: Looking for comfortable travel outfits, check out this post.

Last Words on this Travel Tip

Happy packing! May your flights be smooth, your legs be fresh, and your gear arrive right with you.

Did this travel tip save you stress? Share it with a running friend! Or pin it to your “Race Day Tips” board so you’ve got it when it matters most.

Looking to take planning your own travel off your plate? One travel hack I love is using a travel agent to take the work of marathon travel planning off my plate.

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