The Ultimate Ultra Marathon Race Day Checklist

You've trained for months. Don't let a forgotten item ruin your race. This checklist has been refined through dozens of ultras and hundreds of runner suggestions.

What Do You Wear for an Ultra Marathon?

• Trail shoes (broken in, tested on long runs)
• Race socks (tested — never new on race day)
• Shorts or tights
• Base layer top
• Running vest/pack (loaded the night before)
• Hat or visor
• Sunglasses
• Watch (charged, race loaded)
• Bib + safety pins

What Should You Carry in Your Running Pack During an Ultra?

• 2 soft flasks (filled with your fuel)
• Backup nutrition (gels, bars)
• Phone (charged, airplane mode optional)
• Emergency cash ($20)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Small packet of toilet paper (trust us)
• Any required gear (headlamp, whistle, emergency blanket)

What Goes in an Ultra Marathon Drop Bag?

• Spare socks
• Spare shoes (optional, for 100-milers)
• Extra nutrition
• Body glide / anti-chafe
• Headlamp + spare batteries
• Warm layer for night sections
• Wipes for a quick refresh

What Does an Ultra Marathon Crew Need?

• Folding chair
• Cooler with cold drinks and ice
• Hot broth/soup (for night sections)
• Extra everything (socks, nutrition, batteries)
• Positive attitude (seriously)

What Should You Do the Night Before an Ultra?

• Lay out all gear
• Pin bib to vest/shirt
• Charge watch and headlamp
• Set 2 alarms
• Eat a carb-heavy dinner
• Don't try to sleep 10 hours — resting is enough

What's the Race Morning Routine for an Ultra?

• Eat 2-3 hours before start (what you practiced in training)
• Apply sunscreen and anti-chafe
• Fill flasks
• Use the bathroom (twice)
• Arrive 30 minutes early for parking and check-in