Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, every runner needs a run pack list. It may differ from each pack but regardless, it is essential to know what you need to have before, during and after your run each and every time.
Don’t get me wrong though. I’m not talking about your daily five or 10 kilometre stretches. You probably will do better without a backpack weighing you down. What I’m referring to are those ultras and marathons and arduous trails that you may have signed yourself up for.
So say you have decided to join a Ultra race that spans about close to 300 kilometres (runners can be a pretty crazy bunch), and you definitely need to pack up a few days worth of necessities. What goes into your runpack? Or rather, what SHOULD be in your runpack to get you through?
Food
You need to prepare for all three meals per day and obviously you won’t be able to cook anything too complicated so items like protein shakes, calorie bars, soup mixes and easy to make pre-mixed pasta dishes are good options. Just make sure you have enough food to last you throughout the entire journey, the best way always being to stock a couple more items in your pack just in case since you never know what the trail can throw at you.
Gear
Depending on the terrain, you need to be very careful about what you pack. If you understand that you will be running on rocky paths, it’s good to have a couple of proper training shoes in any case of emergency. If you are doing your run up a mountain, it may be a good idea to pack warmer clothing to fight against the cold. Of course the necessities such as your sleeping bag (for overnight runs), water bottles, cutlery are part of the must-haves in your pack so do remember to bring them along.
And you should never forget your safety gear. These are mandatory and you should always have them with you because you never know when you will need them. Flashlights, batteries, a small knife, a compass, a small notebook and pen, a signal mirror and a whistle will come in handy in times of need. Remember to bring along a poncho for rainy weather too.
Medication
Alike travelling, it is always good to have a small box of medication in hand. You really don’t want your run to be hindered by a mere headache or tummy ache would you? Bring some band aid along too for blister cases. Some SalonPas will help greatly too if you start hurting.
Toiletries
You cannot forget these because you know how horrid it can get if you aren’t able to brush your teeth for three to four days. You probably won’t have time for a full-on shower since you will be on the trail most of the time so pack light but pack right. Bring along your nail clippers and travel scissors too.
