Race Day5 min read
The Ultimate Ultra Marathon Race Day Checklist
Published 2025-03-20
checklistrace preparationdrop bagcrew
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.
On-Body Gear
- 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
In Your Pack
- 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)
Drop Bag Essentials
- 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
Crew Support (if allowed)
- Folding chair
- Cooler with cold drinks and ice
- Hot broth/soup (for night sections)
- Extra everything (socks, nutrition, batteries)
- Positive attitude (seriously)
Night Before
- 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
Race Morning
- 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