WHAT TO PACK FOR A HALF MARATHON

Packing your bag before a half marathon can be both an exciting and daunting task. This is the moment that you realise your preparation is almost complete and it’s game time

To be prepared without overpacking (your post-event legs will thank you), it’s crucial to find the right balance when organising your bag. Here is a handy checklist so you can tick off the essential items…

NOTE: Each person is allowed one small bag/backpack at the event. Unless you’re packing everything and the kitchen sink, you won’t need any more than this.

BEFORE YOU START

The night before the event, lay out your clothes and do any prep work such as pinning your number (which contains your tracking chip) to your top. This makes for a seamless start to your event morning.

1. SPARE CLOTHES

Pack comfortable clothes to change into after the event—especially dry socks! You may wish to wear some of these clothes when travelling to the event (for example, tracksuit bottoms), make sure to pop these items into your bag before Bag Drop.

TIP: Wear a pre-loved item and donate to charity just before the start. Your pre-loved items are sold in charity stores, helping keep products in use for longer making more use of the energy and resources used to make them. Donation bins will be signposted as you approach the start gantry.

2. WATER AND NUTRITION

Stay hydrated by sipping water on the morning of the event. You may also consider bringing a small snack based on your training routine like a banana to eat 45 minutes before the event. Applied Nutrition Isotonic Energy Gels will be available only at drink stations 2 and 4, so please plan ahead and remember to bring additional hydration and nutrition based on your individual needs.

3. KEYS, CARD, AND PORTABLE CHARGER

Remember to pack your keys and wallet. A portable charger for your phone is also a great addition, you never know when you or a friend may need to charge your phone.

TIP: Close unnecessary apps or enable battery-saving mode to conserve your phone’s charge.

4. MEDICAL ITEMS

Blisters are unlikely if you’ve trained in your event day shoes, however it’s wise to pack some plasters or Compeed blister plasters, as well as any other necessary medical supplies like inhalers and ibuprofen.

5. PERSONAL CARE

Even though it’s Manchester, bring sunscreen and apply it! Other useful items include anti-chafing balms, spare contact lenses, sanitary products, tissues, and – ladies – hair ties.

TIP: Organise items into separate clear bags for easy access. This will keep lines moving and avoid unnecessary rummaging around at Bag Drop.

6. WATERPROOFS

In case of rain, pack a lightweight raincoat with a hood. A brolly can be handy if the forecast looks wet.

TIP: Roll up your waterproof jacket to save space in your bag.

BAG DROP INFORMATION

Bag Drop is at Lancashire Cricket Club (M16 0PX), about a 10-minute walk from the start line. Arrive 30 minutes before your start time. Only one small bag is allowed. See our Event Village Maps here.

You’ll get a numbered wristband for your bag, separate from your bib number. Make sure all your items are packed before reaching the front of the queue. To avoid lines, consider leaving your belongings with a supporter or at your accommodation.

Remember: Wear a pre-loved item and donate to charity just before the start. Your pre-loved items are sold in charity stores, helping keep products in use for longer making more use of the energy and resources used to make them. Donation bins will be signposted as you approach the start gantry.

Hopefully these tips give you some peace of mind when packing your bag. We’ll see you on event day where we wish you the best of luck!