The ultimate marathon checklist: Everything you need for race day

If you’re preparing for your next (or first!) marathon, having a race-day checklist that covers all the essentials you need can make all the difference between a disaster and a smooth race.

To help you get ready and focus on what really matters – crossing the finish line and having a great time throughout – we’ve created a detailed marathon checklist that covers everything you need. 

Below, you’ll find Runna’s marathon checklist in the form of a PDF you can download and print out, plus our explanations about each item.

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Your marathon gear checklist for a smooth race

The race-day excitement might make you forget important details – so, we recommend preparing everything you need for your race on the day before, or even a few days prior, in case you need to buy something at the last minute. 

Marathon gear is a lot about personal preferences, but there are a few essentials you need to pack in all cases – and a few things that depend on the weather. 

The essentials for your marathon race

Below, you’ll find a list of all the essential items you need to think of. 

• Shoes: Make sure you wear well-fitted, broken-in shoes you’ve already worn on your longer runs. 
• Running tights or shorts: Opt for shorts, tights, or pants that are comfortable, don’t limit your movement, and don’t cause chafing. Technical, moisture-wicking fabrics are best. Again, don’t try anything new on race day. 
• Running top: A moisture-wicking top will help regulate your body temperature throughout the race. If the weather is chilly, you can bring an old layer to the start line and take it off just before you start running. Most races have charity clothing donation policies for these. 
• Running socks or compression socks: Proper running socks help prevent blisters, while compression socks might be useful in preventing soreness and swelling. 
• Comfortable underwear + sports bra: For a distance like the marathon, you want to make sure the underwear and bra you’re wearing are comfortable and don’t cause irritation or chafing.
• Sunscreen (sun cream): To limit the chance of arriving at the finish line with a sunburn, make sure to apply sunscreen before you leave for your race, and maybe even during the race on sunny days. 
• Hairband: If you need to tie up your hair to keep it out of your face or off your neck in the race, make sure to bring a hairband.
• ID: If you need an ID to get your race bib (and in most cases, you do), make sure you take it with you to the race bib collection point. If you already have your race bib with you, you can leave your ID at home. 
• Race bib & timing chip: Your race bib is essentially your race passport, giving you access to the race, while your timing chip is necessary for tracking your time and getting your official results after. 
• Safety pins: Make sure you take safety pins to secure your race bib to your clothes.
• Hydration (vest, bottle, or cup): On most races, you’ll have hydration stations every 5 or 10 kilometers, but in case you don’t (or don’t want to stop), make sure you have your hydration with you.
• Electrolyte supplements: Replenishing lost electrolytes is essential in long-distance races and helps reduce fatigue and the risk of cramps.
• Fuel (energy gels, energy bars): Use energy gels or bars to keep going strong and avoid hitting the wall. Make sure you’ve tested your fuel of choice during your longer runs, though! 
• Vaseline or Body Glide: Chafing in sensitive areas isn’t fun – we know. To ensure you stay comfortable and avoid painful skin irritation, you can use vaseline or Body Glide. 
• Band-aids (plasters) or blister pads: For many, blisters are one of the unfortunate but frequent occurrences on marathon races. Band-aids and blister pads can be life-saving if your skin is prone to blistering.
• Running backpack or belt: Get a well-fitting running backpack or running belt to carry your essentials (keys, phone, fuel).
• Smart watch or phone: To keep an eye on your marathon pace and stay on target, make sure you take your GPS watch or phone with you. 
• Directions to the start line & gear check location: Make sure you know where you need to go and at what time.
• Pre-race breakfast: Get a large, carb-heavy breakfast before you set out for your race, ideally 2-3 hours prior.

Weather-related gear for a marathon race

Check the forecast on the day before and prepare for the weather conditions you’ll have on race day. 

• Rain poncho or trash bag: If the weather will be wet and windy, a single-use rain poncho or a trash bag can save you from starting your race sogging wet. 
• Running jacket: If you’ll be running in cold weather, bring a breathable running jacket.
• Sunglasses: If your eyes are sensitive to the sun, sunglasses might be essential for a comfortable race. But make sure you’ve already done a few long runs with them and can carry them for the whole 42 km.
• Running hat, visor or headband: Depending on the weather, you might need a hat or visor to protect your head from the sun – or a headband to help you stay warm. 
• Running gloves: If you’ll be running in chilly weather, a pair of light running gloves can help you have a more pleasant experience. 

Optional race gear

The below items aren’t essential, but might help you have a better time: 

• Headphones or earbuds: Music can help you push harder mid-race, but make sure you have your playlist ready! Some runners also like to have pace cues or listen to a running podcast during more monotonous stretches. Check out Runna’s podcast on Spotify or Apple if you need ideas! And check whether your race allows headphones (not all do). 
• Gear check bag: If you’ll be checking your gear and post-race kit, make sure you bring a bag to put your personal belongings. 

Your post-race kit

After you cross the finish line, there are a few key items that’ll help you feel better: 

• Post-race snacks: Replenish your energy after the race with post-race snacks you know you enjoy. 
• A change of clothes: Clean, dry clothes will help you stay comfortable and warm after the race – and feel much fresher. Don’t forget clean socks!
• Towel: If you can get a shower at the race site, a towel is a must. Otherwise, it’ll be handy for freshening up after you finish.
• Wet wipes: If no showers are available, wet wipes are the second best thing to keep you fresh before you put on your post-race clothes.
• Deodorant: Bring a deodorant stick to freshen up and prepare for post race celebrations.
• Foam roller or massage ball: After a marathon, you’ll probably have a few stiff spots or cramps. A large foam roller might be impractical, unless you came by car, but a massage ball might be exactly what you need to relieve stiffness in your muscles.
• Comfortable shoes or slippers: Your tired feet will love slipping into something cozy and comfortable after the race.
• Money, bank card, driving license: Essential for post-race celebrations, emergencies, or simply getting home.

Have the right gear with you to run your best race 

Preparing for a marathon is no small feat, but with our race-day marathon checklist, you'll be ready to tackle those 26.2 miles like a pro. 

Prepare all the essentials beforehand to make sure you don’t forget anything due to nervousness and excitement. Make sure you wear tried and tested clothes, shoes, and gear to avoid nasty surprises at mile 15. 

From the right marathon gear to the perfect pre-race breakfast, every detail counts when it comes to making your race day as smooth and enjoyable as possible. So gear up, hydrate, eat your carbs, and get ready to run your best race yet – and see the results of all your hard work. 

And, if you’d like to prepare for your next marathon race with a personalized training plan tailored to your performance, preferences, and schedule, check out our marathon training plans. 

Join our community of Runnas to level up your running game and set a new PR.