Packing for race day can be stressful, especially if you’re worried about forgetting something important.
Here’s a comprehensive checklist to pack in your triathlon bag to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and successful race day.
Swim Gear
- Wetsuit: Make sure it’s clean and dry. Check for any rips or tears.
- Goggles: Bring a spare pair in case of breakage or for bright/dark race conditions.
- Swim Cap: Provided by the race but pack a spare.
- Body Glide: To prevent chafing.
- Anti-Fog Spray: To make sure you can sight properly through clear lenses. E.g. Cressi Anti-Fog.
- Towel: For drying off in transition.
- Wetsuit Repair: In case your wetsuit gets damaged in transit. E.g. Black Witch.
- Flip Flops: To walk to the waters edge. (old ones as you may lose them).
Bike Gear
- Bike: Ensure it’s in good working condition – remember to book a service a week before race day.
- Helmet: Mandatory for the race. Check it conforms to your race instructions.
- Bike Shoes: Make sure cleats are secure and not too worn.
- Sunglasses: For eye protection.
- Water Bottles: Filled and ready to go.
- Bike Tools and Spare Tube: For emergency repairs.
- Bike Pump or CO2 Inflator: In case you need to top off your tires.
- Bento Box: To carry gels and bars on your bike.
- Race Belt: To hold your race number.
Run Gear
- Running Shoes: Make sure they are comfortable and broken in.
- Lock Races: For shorter triathlons consider elastic laces for quick transitions.
- Running Hat or Visor: For sun protection.
- Socks: Consider packing an extra pair.
Nutrition
- Energy Gels or Bars: For mid-race fuel.
- Electrolyte Drinks: To stay hydrated.
- Salt Tablets: To prevent cramps.
Transition Gear
- Transition Mat: To keep your gear organized.
- Bucket or Stool: To sit on while changing (optional).
- Plastic Bags: For wet gear.
- Towel: To get dry to help put on socks etc.
Miscellaneous
- Race Confirmation and ID: For registration.
- Insurance and/or Race License
- Race pack and location of event, hotel etc
- Watch or GPS Device: To track your time.
- Sunscreen: To avoid sunburn.
- Lip Balm: With SPF protection.
- First Aid Kit: For minor injuries.
- Cash or Card: For any last-minute purchases.
- Phone and Charger: For emergencies and post-race photos.
- Safety pins: Just in case you need to repair something.
- Duct tape: Things happen so this is useful!
- Flip Flops or comfortable shoes: To walk in afterwards.
- Change of clothing: To change into after your race.
- Protein Shake: To help with post-race recovery.
- Extra electrolyte drinks: To help replenish lost fluid and salts.
