What to Pack on Race Day

A checklist to avoid stress on race morning: what to bring, what to wear, and what to leave behind put together by Mariona @marywave_runner

Hi fam, race day is finally here. The weeks of training, the long runs, the sweat (and maybe some tears) all lead up to this one morning. But let me tell you something from experience: nothing kills your race-day vibe faster than realizing you forgot something important.

So here’s my no-stress checklist for race morning, straight from what I learned last year. If you pack this the night before, you’ll wake up calmer, more focused, and ready to enjoy every single step.

1. Race Essentials

Non-negotiables, no excuses:

• Bib number: Pin it the night before. Don’t leave it until the morning, you’ll be stressed enough already.
• Bracelet from the expo: This is your access pass to the start line.
• Timing chip: Usually it’s already attached to your bib, but check twice.

👉 Pro tip: put all of this in a small bag or ziplock and leave it by your shoes. That way you can’t miss it.

2. Clothing & Gear

• Race kit: Wear what you’ve trained in. Nothing new.
• Shoes: The ones you trust. You don’t need a fresh-out-the-box pair.
• Weather prep: Bring an old sweater, jacket, or even a blanket for the start line. You can throw it away, donate it, or hand it to a friend once you warm up in the first kilometers.

3. Fuel & Hydration

• Carb Load Week: The fun part! This is your chance to top up your glycogen stores. Berlin (and honestly most marathon cities) will be buzzing with pasta parties, shakeout runs, and carb-rich snacks everywhere. Don’t cut short, lean into it and enjoy. 🍝🥯🥖
• Breakfast: Keep it simple. Oats, white bread, banana... Avoid fats and too much fiber. Coffee is fine if it’s your thing.
• Hydration: Start drinking water with electrolytes the days before, not just on race morning. Maurten Mix drink is usually served at some checkpoints of the Berlin Marathon course, so don’t worry if you don’t bring a water bottle - I didn’t, cause I don’t like unnecessarily carrying extra weight
• Gels: Bring the ones you know. Most big races (like Berlin) have Maurten on course, but don’t risk trying something new mid-race.

4. Post-Race Comfort

Crossing the finish line feels amazing—changing into dry clothes after feels even better.

• Dry kit: Fresh t-shirt, socks, and maybe a sweater if it’s chilly.
• Comfy shoes: Trust me, your feet will thank you.
• Snacks: Pack a bar or banana for after. Then go celebrate properly (last year my medal moment was with a kebab).

5. Mindset Extras

This is where the magic happens:

• Vaseline / body glide: Chafing prevention is love.
• Sunscreen + cap / glasses: Even on cloudy days, you’ll be out there for hours.
• Phone / headphones: Have your favourite playlist ready. Add motivational songs if you feel like it

👉 My top hack: record yourself a motivational talk. Something like: “Mariona, you trained for this. You’ve got this. One step at a time. Mind over body.” When the wall hits, hearing your own voice cheering you on is powerful.

• Don’t underestimate the crowd. If you don’t feel like using headphones, let the cheers carry you. Read the signs, high-five strangers, soak it all in. And if you can, invite friends to support, it makes the race unforgettable.

6. What NOT to Pack

• New shoes or kit.
• Unfamiliar fuel.
• Valuables you’d be stressed about leaving behind.

Final Thoughts

Pack everything the night before. Lay it out, double-check, and go to sleep knowing you’re ready. Race day is about celebrating the journey, not stressing over gear.

At the end of the day, remember: the FOMO fam is always with you, on the course, at the finish line, and in every single cheer. 🏅

Now go crush it!!!