For this notorious over packer, packing for a relay race can be quite a challenge. I like options! What can I say? Packing for a Destination Relay Race can present even more of a test. Next week, I will jetting off to San Fran with my running besties to take on Ragnar Napa Valley. As this is my 4th relay race, I’ve finally come up with a winning packing system.
How To Pack For A Destination Relay Race
Packing for a destination relay race has a few extra challenges. Carry on because no one wants to lose their run gear the day before a race. Carry on bags (preferably soft sided duffle types) save space in the race vans. I use a large backpack as my “personal item” instead of a purse etc. This really gives me 2 bags and a lot more space.
The essentials
First things first. I pick out my 3 running outfits complete with sports bras, socks and any under garments. Each outfit goes into it’s own ziploc bag labelled with run 1, run 2, run 3. A comfy, dry outfit to wear between run legs usually loose fitting yoga/sweat pants, extra t shirt and sweat shirt is a must along with extra socks and undergarments. Wearing a sweaty sports bra is never fun. Dirty running clothes go right back into the bags.
Shoes
I always bring 2 pairs of running shoes because you never know if it will rain. No one wants to put on wet shoes for a run. To save space, I will wear one pair of running shoes on the plane. Always bring an extra pair of recovery shoes to wear in between legs. I’m packing my favorite Oofos sandals. Since I will be staying in Napa after the race, I will bring one pair of regular sandals/shoes.
Safety First
Ragnar has some pretty strict safety regulations in place for night time running. All of my safety gear goes into one bag together for easy access. All batteries have been replaced and tested.
All weather gear
A lightweight water resistant running jacket and a regular waterproof rain jacket fold up easily into my bag along with sunglasses and visor/hat.
Other Run Gear
Anything you normally use for a run: race belt, water bottle, any gels/chews etc. This gear is also packed into it’s own ziploc so it’s available for easy access. Running watch with chargers, phone chargers and sunscreen.
Sleep?
Some people choose to bring small sleeping bags as sleeping areas are usually available. Personally, not a sleep outside person myself, I choose to bring a small travel pillow and blanket in case I curl up in the van. These easily fit into my backpack. I suggest a pair of ear plugs and eye shades as sleeping is not always at night.
Toiletries
Travel sized shampoo, soap, face wash and small towel. Showers are usually available at least once during the race. Shower Pill body wipes to clean up after each run. Any medications or other personal toiletries you need. Flip flops for shower. (I will use the Oofos I packed for recovery shoes).
Snacks
Hard to know what you will find along the way so taking along a few airplane friendly snacks is helpful. We purchase water and fruit when we arrive. Many races are now “cupless” so know whether you need to bring your own water bottle.
Post Race
Hanging around after the race? A pair of jeans with a few different tops that can be easily folded into your bag is the way to go.
If you still have space…It’s nice to have a small foam roller along for everyone to share.
The most important thing to pack is your carefree attitude. Part of a successful destination relay race is just stepping out of your comfort zone and going with the flow.
Whew! All packed and ready to go! Have you done a destination relay race? Have I forgotten anything?
I can’t even imagine packing for a relay race that I’d have to fly to. It’s stressful enough just packing for the race!
It sure can be but I think I’ve got it!
P.S. Good luck and have fun! I can’t wait to follow along on IG and then read your recap!
Thanks I am so excited!
So excited for Napa! I am going to start packing today – goal is to fit it all in one small backpack and a duffle carry on (I’ll be there for a week) 🙂
I really hope I run into you at some point. Have a fantastic time
I love the shirts your team has for the relay. Can’t wait to hear all about it!
thanks I am really excited and can’t wait to get there
Great tips, since I’ll be packing for my Ragnar Trail in a couple weeks. I’ve also been working on a similar post, with the trail needs added in, but this is so thorough I might just wait until after the race and add whatever I forgot to bring!
If you think of anything I forgot let me know!
When I was considering a Ragnar, I was amazed at all the great advice for packing. You have to be so organized!! I’m excited for you and it looks like you are going to have a blast. Love the team name!
You do have to be organized! Thanks we are really excited
Good luck.
You seem to have it all under control. Hope you have a great experience.
I have enough trouble packing for one short race this weekend. Weather????
I know it’s challenging for sure. I am going to be in NYC Nov 10th weekend let me know if you are too
Sounds stressful packing for this, although packing always stresses me out. Sounds like it will be a great time and I can’t imagine anything else you would need!
Thanks I am really excited to get there
I love that you packed your outfits in bags. This is something that I want to start doing so I don’t have to dig in my suitcase to find all the race day essentials.
it is a must for relay races but you are right great for any race cation clothes
First off, that MOMS DO IT ALL NIGHT LONG shirt is – PRICELESS – hahahahaha! Secondly, I HATE packing and I would hate it even more if I had to pack for races! Sure you can check the weather and such but every city feels different even if the temp is 60 degrees in every city!
Yes the weather is super challenging for sure. Glad you like our team name 🙂
This is a super helpful guide to be ready for race day! Love your gym swag
Thanks so much
I think you got it all! I’ve done a team relay event, but it’s only a day-long endeavor. Still, although there are no airline issues, we all need “all the gear” for the multiple legs of running. I’m looking forward to hearing how Ragnar goes for and the gals 😉
Yes having to travel adds another layer for sure. I am usually such an over packer!
ohhh great organization system! I love your idea of bagging each outfit individually. Also, your tights!!!! OMG they’re so fun
Thanks it really helps to be organized for these types of races
Love the ziplock bag idea and your tights in the 3rd pic. So cool.
Good luck with your race!
Thanks we are really excited!
Never did a destination race and Im an overpacker so probably would have all I need and more. Safe travels!
I have made significant progress in my over packing areas 🙂
I remember packing for my Ragnar Napa Valley days. Whew!! Ziplock baggies were life savers. Have a great time! And unlike us, I hope you get to enjoy wine country. We must’ve been the only people who spent 2 days running around wine country and did not have a sip of wine!
ha I am not really a big drinker, but I am excited about spending a day doing some wine tours.
I remember packing for my Ragnar Napa Valley days. Whew!! Ziplock baggies were life savers. Have a great time! And unlike us, I hope you get to enjoy wine country. We must’ve been the only people who spent 2 days running around wine country and did not have a sip of wine!!!
I’ve done a relay and a destination race but not a relay destination race. Wow, so much pressure as to make sure to pack everything you need. I guess a packing list will also help for races like these..
Yes it seems overwhelming at first but then it just kind of comes together.
I did my first Ragnar in August! I got a lot of tips from my friend Tina, a super seasoned Ragnar runner. So pretty much everything you mention here! I did have a travel foam roller stick + two massage balls. Also, being a sport massage practitioner I also brought muscle cream and KT Tape in case I or anyone on my team needed it.. And safety pins. I am the queen of safety pins!!!
Can’t go wrong with safety pins! Glad you had a great time at your Ragnar. I am so excited
Phew! It takes a village, doesn’t it? Looks like you’ve got everything. I did not have to fly for my relay. You’re so right about the carefree attitude. Have so much fun!
Thanks! one more week we are so excited
Looks like you’ve got al your bases covered!! :] Have an awesome time!!
Thanks so much super excited
I hate packing for any reason, but packing for a relay can be complicated. I remember ordering ziploc bags for Ragnar, but it really makes packing and running so much easier!
The ziplocs are definitely essential for Ragnar