Sprint Tri Packing List + A SpiBelt Giveaway!

on May 19, 2015
in Sponsored Posts, Giveaways, and Reviews

Don’t forget the bike!  Hah.

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I feel like I did an awesome job packing for Sunday’s race.  I brought everything I needed but didn’t end up carrying around a bunch of extra stuff.  Here’s what I took with me:

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General:

Tri-suit (I wore one from MooMotion)

Enell sports bra (BTW, this dried off really well in the swim to bike/run transition)

Food for before and after race

COFFEE!

Water bottle

Sunscreen

Post-race change of clothes

Bike Pump

Flat Kit

 

Swim:

Extra cap

Goggles

(Others also brought a wetsuit because the swim was wetsuit legal)

 

Bike:

Two small hand towels for drying off

BIKE!

Helmet

Gloves (didn’t wear them though)

Bike shoes

Socks

Fuel – I ended up taking three Gus and a packet of Sport Beans

Water Bottle

 

Run:

Sneakers (I wore my New Balance 880s with Lock Laces)

Hat

SpiBelt

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So, the SpiBelt was the first running belt that I ever wore.  I really liked it, but after a bit, I thought it got more “bouncy” and it was no longer my fav.  But the company just contacted me to tell me that they reformulated the elastic band to prevent this from happening!  I’ve been testing out the improved belt for a few weeks and now I remember why I love SpiBelts so much. <3 <3 <3

 

This belt is the “extra large” one – and it holds an incredible amount of stuff – but even the regular SpiBelt is pretty roomy.

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The simple design is great for running or cycling – there’s not a lot of fussing necessary to open it up.  Just un-zip and grab your fuel or phone or keys or whatever.  Easy!  Plus – so many cute and functional designs…

 

Tons of different colors

Prints – Camo, Polka Dots, Peace Signs and More

High Visibility

Stars and Stripes

Handheld SpiBelt with a Water Bottle Holder (COOL!)

SpiLeash <— a dog leash with a SpiBelt pocket built in (even cooler!)

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Bonus – safety pin your race number to the belt and the SpiBelt doubles as a race bib belt, too.

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Wanna win a SpiBelt?  Simply leave a comment stating what item you *must* bring to a race.  Or comment with a key item you think I missed on my sprint tri packing list (like as watch – I don’t use them during races anymore, but I know most people depend on them!).

{ 266 comments }

 

  • Kelly J May 19, 2015, 7:36 am

    I never race without my iPhone!

  • Allison d May 19, 2015, 7:44 am

    Gu!

  • melanie May 19, 2015, 7:50 am

    bike gloves to prevent blisters!

  • Maggie May 19, 2015, 7:52 am

    fuel is key for me! I once forgot it and I could definitely tell the difference during that half marathon.

  • Caroline May 19, 2015, 7:59 am

    Item I must bring to a race: Tissues!! I put a few in a ziploc bag to keep them dry. They’re so versatile, I’ve never finished a race with any left!

  • Erin @ Her Heartland Soul May 19, 2015, 8:01 am

    I must bring tunes! It’s very hard for me to run to nothing!

  • Haley May 19, 2015, 8:03 am

    A good luck charm. I usually wear a necklace from my hubby 🙂

  • Kara temple May 19, 2015, 8:06 am

    I always bring an extra hair elastic. Mine broke one race and I hated running with my thick hair around my neck!

  • Amaura May 19, 2015, 8:10 am

    My race must haves always include some sweet snacks (tootsie rolls, Swedish fish, etc.), and the SpiBelt would be perfect to hoard away some quick fuel 🙂

  • NOel May 19, 2015, 8:10 am

    love the spibelt

  • Jeanne T May 19, 2015, 8:12 am

    I “have to have” lip balm!

  • Amy May 19, 2015, 8:14 am

    Chapstick! I hate running with dry lips.

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 8:15 am

    Fuel!! Pretzels usually for some salt!

  • Amanda May 19, 2015, 8:18 am

    When I run a race, I MUST have extra hair ties. Like 3-4 of them on my wrist. You never know!

  • Wendy May 19, 2015, 8:19 am

    I always bring my phone to coordinate post race meetup with my husband.

  • Lisa May 19, 2015, 8:22 am

    I love lists like this! Thanks for posting – it’s always helpful to see what others do. I always bring EXTRA HAIR TIES – what if the one I’m wearing breaks!? I have a lot of hair and don’t want it blowing around for hours.

  • Darcy May 19, 2015, 8:24 am

    My first sprint tri is this coming Sunday, and I am freaking out! So, I’m going to say my “must bring” to the race is my confidence (and my sunglasses). I would love to win a SpiBelt to tote around those tiny essentials!

  • melissa l May 19, 2015, 8:28 am

    A change of clothes is a must for me! (or a least a different bra :))

  • Heather M May 19, 2015, 8:32 am

    chapstick! I always have to put it on before a race because I feel like my lips get so dry. It’s a must for me. Congrats on your tri!

  • April May 19, 2015, 8:32 am

    Looks like you did great job packing! I don’t have any “must haves” but I’ve never completed a tri. 🙂

  • Jen Wade May 19, 2015, 8:36 am

    I always carry my phone and a sweat towel!!

  • Colleen May 19, 2015, 8:38 am

    might be weird, but I have a lucky sock color, they have to be bright pink. My sister just started running 5k’s and I would love to win a SpiBelt for her.

  • Hilary May 19, 2015, 8:39 am

    I always bring blister band aids for my heels!

  • Jessica May 19, 2015, 8:41 am

    I haven’t ever raced yet but I LOVE running and since I am not going to get a gym membership until my second baby is older I exclusively run outdoors. I would absolutely love to win this! It would be so great not to have to run holding my phone and have a place to put the little things runners need. Thanks for the giveaway. 🙂

  • Faith Plvan May 19, 2015, 8:51 am

    I have to bring water and extra energy shots.

  • Laura May 19, 2015, 8:51 am

    I must bring calories of some sort – whether that is gu, trail mix, a cliff bar, a banana or something else… I have to eat!!

  • Tiffany May 19, 2015, 8:52 am

    Flip flops for after the race! My feet feel so happy once my brooks come off and the flip flops are on.

  • mindy @ just a one girl revolution. May 19, 2015, 8:55 am

    Caffeine! I did chocolate covered espresso beans for a while, but more and more, just a cup of coffee is doing the trick. I had coffee before my last two races and PRed, so I think I’m on to something! 😉

  • Maggie May 19, 2015, 8:57 am

    I only do running races, so don’t need a lot of gear. I usually bring a Larabar for before, phone, headphones, Gu chomps for during, a $20 bill, license, credit card and subway card. I fit what I can in my shorts pocket and carry the rest in a ziploc bag in case it rains. So I could really use the Spibelt!

    Thanks for hosting!

  • Stephanie May 19, 2015, 8:59 am

    Chapstick. I always need chapstick during or after a run/race.

  • Lynn May 19, 2015, 8:59 am

    I would say my phone is a must have. Have a great day. 🙂

  • Rebecca A Meier May 19, 2015, 9:03 am

    My MUST bring item to a race is chapstick – Baby Lips by Maybelline to be exact. I literally cannot live without this stuff, I apply it like 100x a day. I love it. And I lick my lips a lot, so I definitely can’t do a race without it. I even bring it with me to the gym, lol!!

    Love the look of the Spibelt, looks way more chic than say a typical fanny pack 🙂

  • Jessica May 19, 2015, 9:04 am

    I can’t function without chapstick!

  • Cori May 19, 2015, 9:14 am

    Gotta have a packet of nut butter!

  • Kim May 19, 2015, 9:14 am

    I have to bring my phone to listen to music! Would love to try the SpiBelt. Would be great to store keys which is always a problem in a run/bike ride.

  • Jennifer May 19, 2015, 9:15 am

    I would love to try the new spibelt! Two items I must bring to a race are fuel and a dry change of clothes!

  • MJ May 19, 2015, 9:17 am

    So I don’t do races; I mainly just run for fun. But I’d love to win a SpiBelt for my hubby who has recently started running races 🙂

  • Laura May 19, 2015, 9:19 am

    I always have to bring chapstick! Nothing worse than running with dry lips!

  • Melissa May 19, 2015, 9:22 am

    I have only done one sprint tri, so Im not super familiar with that packing list, but for running races I always pack extra hair ties and bobby pins to hold my hair in place (usually in braided pigtails, like yours).

  • Olivia May 19, 2015, 9:22 am

    I must bring a headband to every race. I can’t stand any distractions – least of all, hair flying in my face!

  • Janelle May 19, 2015, 9:26 am

    Must bring sunscreen! Pale redhead right here.

    I hadn’t looked at SpiBelts in a while. There are so many good options! I especially appreciate that there’s a waterproof SpiBelt because I sweat… a lot.

  • Erin May 19, 2015, 9:30 am

    My phone and headphones. I need my tunes to get me through!

  • Maureen May 19, 2015, 9:33 am

    Over the years as I’ve run with other runners I’ve realized I am a very minimalist runner. I literally bring nothing with me but my car key and my music! When I run half marathons I never bring fuel for during the race…I just stop at all the water/gatorade stations. But if I had a SpiBelt I may be inclined to try out more fueling options because I’d have somewhere to put it all:)

  • Jennifer May 19, 2015, 9:34 am

    I have to have kleenex

  • Haley May 19, 2015, 9:41 am

    I always need sunglasses….I am literally miserable without them!

  • Liina May 19, 2015, 9:42 am

    Hah – my iPod! Last time I forgot to eat in the morning, but still had my iPod with me 😀

  • lisa valinsky May 19, 2015, 9:43 am

    I love my Spibelt! I still wear it on my daily walks with our dog.

    I always bring a large bottle of water to leave in the car during the race. I find it helps to drink a bit right before the race, and to be able to drink what I need on the drive home.

  • Stephanie Dunhill May 19, 2015, 9:45 am

    I can’t forget sunscreen and an extra bottle of water for rinsing my feet off after running barefoot from the swim to T1, call me crazy but ANY tiny piece of sand or gravel in my shoes will drive me nuts for the rest of the race! P.S. I am pregnant with my first and due in September, reading all your posts is pre-inspiring me to get back into racing and has initiated some hardcore looking for a used BOB (cuz those things are PRICEY!)….so thanks!

  • Melanie May 19, 2015, 9:46 am

    I’ve only participated in a 5k, and I didn’t need any special gear except my running shoes and some positive energy!

  • Kristin May 19, 2015, 9:48 am

    Thank you for the packing list…I am doing a sprint tri in July and this will come in handy. My flip flops are my #1 packed item. They feel SO good after racing!

  • Charlie May 19, 2015, 9:49 am

    I must bring my favorite socks! Having bad socks ruins the race for me!

  • Jen W. May 19, 2015, 9:51 am

    Lip balm….. first & foremost!

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 9:52 am

    I bring 4 water bottles. One for the bike, one for before the race, one for after the race, and one to have for any cleaning post-race.

  • Mallory May 19, 2015, 9:52 am

    Sunscreen. I’m so fair, I screen up before I leave the house for the race, and again before I make my way to the starting line. I’m fried if I’m out there for even a 5K w/o protection! (also sunglasses for comfort 🙂 )

  • Molly P May 19, 2015, 9:54 am

    I always have to to have my fuel in my belt!

  • Bianca @ Sweet Dreaming May 19, 2015, 9:54 am

    water bottle and my flip belt! i’d love to try out spibelt!

  • Kyra May 19, 2015, 10:02 am

    Definitely my phone!

  • Grace May 19, 2015, 10:09 am

    Just a quick question / note about the photo of your bike. Was the chain off the front chainrings in that photo? I ask because I see that your chain is sagging. If the chain had fallen off the front chainrings, that’s to be expected. But if it’s on the chainrings, then your chain is too long. As far as chain length is concerned, too long is better than too short, but you never want to see sagging when you put the bike in little-little (that is, your smallest rings in front and in back). Granted, you should never ride your bike in little-little, but just in case you have a brain fart and end up in that gear, you want to make sure that your chain is properly measured so that it won’t sag. Here’s a good video on how to measure chain length: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuhHn7HaZcQ.

    • Caitlin May 19, 2015, 10:13 am

      Yes, the chain was off 🙂

      • Grace May 20, 2015, 6:47 pm

        Good to know! Many years of working in a bike shop and seeing people install chains without shortening them to the right length has given me “chain length radar” 🙂 Congrats for completing your tri!

  • Cathy May 19, 2015, 10:11 am

    Sunglasses! Even if it’s cloudy! I will wear tinted lenses on my bike – I learned the hard way after riding through a cloud if gnats once.

  • Kait May 19, 2015, 10:13 am

    I am a spibelt lover since 2009 when I learned (the hard way) I am allergic to bees/wasps! I needed a better way to carry my epipen for runs, biked, and hikes. I totally agree that they used to be too bouncy and would love a new one to carry my ‘essential item’ which is literally a ‘lifesaver’….my epipen!

  • Kelly May 19, 2015, 10:15 am

    I must bring a change of clothes for after! Typically I’ll bag check them or leave them in the car if I drive to the race. I always get so sweaty during races and look forward to changing into fresh, dry clothes immediately.

  • Abbe May 19, 2015, 10:16 am

    Band-aids! I am blister prone, so I never am without.

  • Adrienne May 19, 2015, 10:17 am

    energy jelly beans! I just finished a 10 mile race –part of the Colfax Marathon in Denver. Gels tend to upset my stomach, but the jelly beans are just right!

  • laura t. May 19, 2015, 10:18 am

    Food is always on my mind so I always think about my nutrition first when prepping for an event!

  • Amanda @ Slimplify Life May 19, 2015, 10:21 am

    This is kind of weird, but I MUST bring chap stick to a race. Running a marathon without chap stick is horrifying to me!

    I’ve tried so many belts and they are all about the bounce. I’d love to try this one after your rave reviews!!

  • michelle May 19, 2015, 10:21 am

    Headphones! I can’t run without music.

  • Ann May 19, 2015, 10:25 am

    I love this belt – I would use it for holding my keys, gel and other running necessities. It looks so comfy too!

  • Halley May 19, 2015, 10:26 am

    a must for me is coffee! can’t live without it!

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 10:34 am

    My Garmin. I don’t run as well without one.
    And bonus must-haves for post-race: Nuun and sandals.

  • Alicia Wynn May 19, 2015, 10:34 am

    I must have my Garmin when I run!

  • stacy May 19, 2015, 10:36 am

    water!

  • Allison May 19, 2015, 10:39 am

    My phone.

  • Brynn May 19, 2015, 10:42 am

    I need my headphones! I like running without them sometimes but music pushes me during a race.

  • Lauren May 19, 2015, 10:48 am

    ahhh! i need to win this. i’ve been bumming my dad’s for runs!
    I always have my phone. it doubles as gps tracker AND running music!

  • Marisa @ Uproot from Oregon May 19, 2015, 10:48 am

    I have been looking for something like this! My “must” is my phone for GPS and music. I need to hear the lady in my ear telling me my pace so I can pick it up or take it a bit easier!

  • mary May 19, 2015, 10:50 am

    Beer money for after the race!!!

  • Karen May 19, 2015, 10:50 am

    I need my phone with me–not for music, but for my GPS app that tells me when I’m halfway done or nearly to the end!

  • Abbey May 19, 2015, 10:54 am

    My must is actually for after the race — I always pack face cleaning wipes. I hate having to act like a normal person until I get home when I can feel the sweat caked on my face!

  • Randi May 19, 2015, 10:59 am

    extra hair ties! Would be awful to break or lose your hair tie mid-race!

  • Carlee May 19, 2015, 10:59 am

    Flip flops for after the race!!! At least when it’s a marathon.

  • Kara May 19, 2015, 11:02 am

    I always bring my phone!

  • Grace King May 19, 2015, 11:05 am

    I must being a glob of Vaseline or suffer the wrath of chaffing!

  • Gina B May 19, 2015, 11:10 am

    The one item I must bring to a race: ponytail holders.

  • Shannon May 19, 2015, 11:13 am

    I can’t run without my SPIBelt, actually! I’ve had it for two years and it’s on it’s last leg. 🙂 It does bounce a little, though, so I’m glad to hear that they’ve worked on the bounce-factor!

  • Jill May 19, 2015, 11:14 am

    My must-take item is my cell phone

  • Katie B May 19, 2015, 11:14 am

    I can’t race without sunglasses!

  • Candice W May 19, 2015, 11:17 am

    Love having chocolate gu!

  • Coco May 19, 2015, 11:19 am

    My iPhone! Always have it on me at all times

  • Rachel May 19, 2015, 11:24 am

    Am extra hair tie in my wrist. Just. In. Case. For some reason, the thought of the one in my hair breaking mid race gives me nightmares.

  • siobhan May 19, 2015, 11:26 am

    my races are running races and i must bring my phone for music and headphones!

  • Amy Cooper May 19, 2015, 11:30 am

    bike shorts!

  • Jess May 19, 2015, 11:32 am

    I need sunglasses!

  • Joy May 19, 2015, 11:32 am

    I must bring my water bottle with me to a race.
    Thanks for the chance to win!

  • Jennyh May 19, 2015, 11:33 am

    I must have gum when I race! An extra piece for anything longer than a 10k 🙂

  • Hannah Hawley (@sirenical) May 19, 2015, 11:37 am

    I always like to bring my phone. I can take pictures, track my progress, and have it in case of emergency (have had to use it twice for emergencies).

  • Julie May 19, 2015, 11:39 am

    my phone!

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 11:46 am

    Music… Must. Have. Music.

  • nicole c gordon May 19, 2015, 11:51 am

    My phone!!! Can’t do a race without it!

  • Chris May 19, 2015, 11:51 am

    My running partner…. because I don’t have any way to carry my phone or ID (unless it is winter and I am wearing a jacket with pockets). I know it’s terrible but I have yet to find a running belt that works that I don’t hate. I haven’t tried the SpiBelt yet!

  • Samantha May 19, 2015, 11:54 am

    I always wear something purple – purple is my power color!

  • Heather A. May 19, 2015, 12:02 pm

    I’ve never done a triathlon, but based on other athletics (and doing any swimming/biking/running individually) I would say chewing gym is an absolute must! I always feel the need to down gallons of water and gum seems to help me stay feeling hydrated with less.
    …although I know there are others who totally disagree (it is a major choking hazard!) for me it’s a must.

  • tori May 19, 2015, 12:03 pm

    BRA! 🙂

  • Em May 19, 2015, 12:04 pm

    While my watch is becoming a “must-have”, a REAL must-have is body lubricant like Sports Shield or BodyGlide. Even if I don’t wear a wetsuit, I still put the lube under my arms and sometimes feet to prevent chafing.

  • Taylor May 19, 2015, 12:11 pm

    While I usually stick to 5k runs and long bike rides, I always try to have my comfiest clothes, an energy bar, and some cash (while I’m riding around the city)! 🙂

  • Stephanie May 19, 2015, 12:11 pm

    I like bringing a almost done roll of toilet paper. You never know when they might run out!

  • Renee May 19, 2015, 12:11 pm

    My must, oddly, is mint gum. Chewing gum while racing helps my mouth not dry out!

  • Meghan Medlock May 19, 2015, 12:15 pm

    Lately I have to have my phone/car keys! I don’t like not being able to find/contact the people I came to the race with.

  • Christina May 19, 2015, 12:15 pm

    I always have to bring my iPod to a race! I’m 100% sure my running playlist makes me faster!

  • nikki fahey May 19, 2015, 12:20 pm

    I need my recovery knecklas from my favorite therapist. This reminds me that I run to be healthy and not deathly ill.

  • Seema May 19, 2015, 12:25 pm

    Wet wipes and tissues ! I have seasonal allergies and even with medicine, my eyes water and my nose runs when I’m on any outdoor run

  • Amanda H. May 19, 2015, 12:30 pm

    Tissues are a must for me during a race!

  • Kim May 19, 2015, 12:34 pm

    Not to be cheesy, but the #1 thing I need for a race is my SpiBelt! I keep my phone (music source), keys, ID, and food in there. Like you, I’ve had trouble with them stretching out over time so I’m interested in the new design!

  • Jo May 19, 2015, 12:37 pm

    Sunscreen! I turn into a lobster after an hour of sun without it!

  • Catie May 19, 2015, 12:38 pm

    headphones!

  • Samantha B May 19, 2015, 12:41 pm

    My hair is way too unruly to forget a hair tie!

  • Traci Heinsch May 19, 2015, 12:42 pm

    Chapstick! I have to have it before a race otherwise that’s all I think about during the race.

  • Jen May 19, 2015, 12:51 pm

    I always need to bring chap stick!!

  • Lauren G May 19, 2015, 12:58 pm

    I always wear my TomTom watch and Fitbit.

  • Sharon May 19, 2015, 1:04 pm

    Has to be a phone.

  • Laura May 19, 2015, 1:06 pm

    I always try to remember to bring comfy clothes to change into after a race!

  • Heather S May 19, 2015, 1:21 pm

    An extra hair tie (or two!)

  • Kat W May 19, 2015, 1:24 pm

    Chapstick! I swear I don’t race as well without it!

  • Jacquelyn @justjacq May 19, 2015, 1:33 pm

    I need vitamin water! regular water just doesn’t cut it for me once I start sweating!

  • Rachel May 19, 2015, 1:34 pm

    I know you mentioned this in your recap but I always bring a little towel to put my socks and shoes on. I’m getting stoked for tri season! I have been wanting a spi belt.

  • Jennifer May 19, 2015, 1:36 pm

    I always bring extra hair ties. I have this bad habit of redoing my ponytail right before the race, and inevitably, my hair tie snaps at that moment. 🙂

  • Elizabeth May 19, 2015, 1:42 pm

    Must pack my phone!

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 1:43 pm

    I have to bring headphones. Knowing I have music to help me through a race is key.

  • Kate May 19, 2015, 1:43 pm

    Shot Blox! Just finished my second half marathon and I would have been a mess without my fuel.

  • Emily May 19, 2015, 1:52 pm

    Clothes and flipflops for after the race. It always feels so great to change into dry clothes!

  • Amanda May 19, 2015, 1:54 pm

    My phone, for sure! To keep track of my pace, music, & to take pics when it’s a fun run.

  • Samantha May 19, 2015, 1:57 pm

    I have to have music!

  • Jessica K May 19, 2015, 1:59 pm

    my watch!

  • anagha May 19, 2015, 2:00 pm

    Kleenex\tissues! I’ve got allergies\snot rocket probes, so they’re a must for me 🙂 also, hair ties and a bag of almonds (they’re my go-to quick fuel 🙂

  • Anita R May 19, 2015, 2:00 pm

    Sunscreen is a must! It took one bad burn to remind me to never leave home without it.

  • Lindsay May 19, 2015, 2:05 pm

    must have chapstick with me!!

  • Kerry May 19, 2015, 2:13 pm

    I don’t think you mentioned something to hold the timing chip! I have an elastic band for my ankle that’s a little more comfortable than what the race gives you automatically. Also for the run: sunglasses!

  • Caroline May 19, 2015, 2:20 pm

    I’ve never done a tri – but for running races I guess I always make sure I have my outfit laid out, shoes ready, bib ready, gu or stingers, a throw away hoodie or something warm if it’s going to be cold, and something to change into afterwards if I have a long commute back!

  • Mary Jo May 19, 2015, 2:20 pm

    After Race Adult Refreshment!!! (just kidding! sorta! ) Extra food for after the race…always starving.

  • Holly B May 19, 2015, 2:25 pm

    I have to have my music to push me through when I’m feeling tired.

  • Kate May 19, 2015, 2:27 pm

    Must have my iPhone!

  • leatitia May 19, 2015, 2:33 pm

    I always wear my favorite Adidas short. Been there for me for YEARS. However, I need something to hold my keys other than a bag I hope nobody will steal on the side of the course. lol.

  • Andy May 19, 2015, 2:34 pm

    Gotta have my phone! For music and in case of emergencies!

  • Melissa May 19, 2015, 2:40 pm

    My watch!

  • Amie May 19, 2015, 2:46 pm

    My Garmin!

  • Liz K May 19, 2015, 2:54 pm

    Sometimes for sprints, but always for longer races, I need separate socks for the bike and the run. I love super thin barely-there socks for the bike but thicker socks to prevent blisters for my run!

  • Wendy May 19, 2015, 2:57 pm

    Gu and my iPhone!

  • Diana May 19, 2015, 2:59 pm

    Sunglasses! Ever since I started wearing contacts my eyes are much more sensitive to light. I bring them even on a cloudy day in case the sun peeks through!

  • Valerie May 19, 2015, 3:06 pm

    I haven’t done any races, but I really want a SPIBelt cause I run at the gym and then do weights after and I must have music…it’s my motivator and also a security blanket…to have headphones in!

  • Amanda May 19, 2015, 3:10 pm

    Fuel! Usually in the form of candy 🙂

  • CJ May 19, 2015, 3:12 pm

    Lip balm and my watch.

  • Emily May 19, 2015, 3:15 pm

    Bodyglide is a must!

  • Gina May 19, 2015, 3:26 pm

    Chapstick is a must for me, as well as sun screen!

  • Nicole W May 19, 2015, 3:31 pm

    Definitely keys and gu!!! So cute!

  • Rachel May 19, 2015, 3:49 pm

    I’m with everyone saying they can’t go anywhere without extra hair ties!

  • melissa May 19, 2015, 3:57 pm

    I must bring my husband 🙂

  • Joanna May 19, 2015, 3:59 pm

    I have to bring my SpiBelt to races! It is such a pain having to carry all my stuff if I forget it…

  • Laura May 19, 2015, 4:00 pm

    My must-have for a race (and really, everyday) is ChapStick.

  • nicole j May 19, 2015, 4:06 pm

    I never race without my phone for tunes!

  • Kaella (KaellaOnTheRun) May 19, 2015, 4:07 pm

    My must-have on race day is an extra hair elastic. I am paranoid my ponytail holder will break and I’ll be stuck, running, with my hair in my face haha!

  • Kathy May 19, 2015, 4:16 pm

    I must have my iphone for music and to reach people after I finish!!

  • Sarah H. May 19, 2015, 4:17 pm

    An absolute must for me during a is a glucometer. I have type 1 diabetes, so I’ve got to keep on top of my blood sugar. Everything else is just gravy 🙂

  • Hillary May 19, 2015, 4:30 pm

    Jelly Beans!

  • Kirsten May 19, 2015, 4:43 pm

    I must have chapstick! Even if I don’t use it, I need to know I CAN use it.

  • Laura E. May 19, 2015, 5:27 pm

    I like to have a mini bottle of sunscreen and SPF lip balm!

  • Katie o May 19, 2015, 5:32 pm

    I only run so far, but hydration pack or belt!

  • Katie d May 19, 2015, 5:37 pm

    GU for sure! And a water bottle

  • Angie May 19, 2015, 5:41 pm

    Body glide – a must to prevent chafing!

  • Michelle May 19, 2015, 5:44 pm

    I bring a Sharpie in case the body marking line is super long.

  • Hannah May 19, 2015, 6:02 pm

    My phone. It’s pathetic that I cant even go for a quick run without it! But I feel like to have to have it in case of emergencies. And I love using the find friends app while racing to allow spectators to track me.

  • Janine May 19, 2015, 6:05 pm

    Just one??…I guess that would have to be music!

  • Colleen May 19, 2015, 6:27 pm

    Garmin!

  • Traci May 19, 2015, 6:30 pm

    What kind of bike pump do you use and what’s in your flat kit? Help a newbie out! 🙂

    • Caitlin May 19, 2015, 8:09 pm

      It’s an old pump so I’m not sure. You’ll need a spare tire, a CO mini pumper, and little wedges to get the tire off. Any bike store can help you out!

  • Caroline May 19, 2015, 6:35 pm

    as silly as it may sound, sunscreen is one of those things I must have – I burn like crazy! You forget how long you’re out in the sun in these events!

  • Trisha May 19, 2015, 6:36 pm

    I always love comfy post race shoes. Definitely sandals in the summertime!

  • Charissa May 19, 2015, 6:47 pm

    I always pack my iPhone, Gu, and lip balm!

  • Katie M May 19, 2015, 7:06 pm

    Lip balm is an absolute necessity. Usually when I bring it, I use it once, and I’m good. But if I forget it, I can’t stop thinking about my lips and how dry they feel.

  • Caroline May 19, 2015, 7:10 pm

    A hat! To keep the sun out of my eyes and sweat and hair off my face

  • Alexis May 19, 2015, 7:18 pm

    Extra hair ties and sunglasses!

  • Sara May 19, 2015, 7:31 pm

    I must have an energy packet like Gus with me for a race!

  • AB May 19, 2015, 7:31 pm

    Don’t forget the sunscreen!

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 8:00 pm

    Must have my iPod!

  • melanie May 19, 2015, 8:03 pm

    chapstick!

  • Kelli Jamison May 19, 2015, 8:17 pm

    Shades for the bike (clear lenses if it’s raining) and a visor for the run…these two things are like my safety blankets!

  • Jordan K May 19, 2015, 8:24 pm

    I must bring music to a race! I love to zone out to some good tunes!

  • Kelly May 19, 2015, 8:24 pm

    I always bring a banana! It’s my favorite way to fuel 🙂

  • Bonnie May 19, 2015, 8:32 pm

    Sunglasses!

  • Erin M. May 19, 2015, 8:35 pm

    My garmin

  • Julia @ Lord Still Loves Me May 19, 2015, 8:35 pm

    I have never raced before, but I have a feeling I would need to pack my house key as well!

  • Sara May 19, 2015, 8:38 pm

    wow I didn’t know Spibelt had leashes too! thats awesome!
    One thing I like going to races with is Support! I know you had Brandi- its awesome getting to cross the finish line to someone cheering you on or competing with you in the race =D

  • Anna D May 19, 2015, 8:44 pm

    Extra hair fubbies! 😉
    It’s the worst when they break, or when my hair falls out of its ponytail!

  • Laura May 19, 2015, 8:46 pm

    Chafing prevention!!! Like petroleum jelly.

  • Lynne May 19, 2015, 8:50 pm

    Really? You bring your bike in the house??

  • Jenn May 19, 2015, 9:04 pm

    Sunglasses 🙂

  • Katherine May 19, 2015, 9:21 pm

    chap stick!

  • Michelle Q May 19, 2015, 9:28 pm

    Bert’s Bees lip balm!

  • Andrea B May 19, 2015, 9:43 pm

    I always bring glide to help avoid chaffing.

  • Katie May 19, 2015, 9:53 pm

    I would love to win one! I am always having trouble finding room for my phone and/or keys at a race!

  • Laura W May 19, 2015, 10:00 pm

    My inhaler, otherwise I’m toast!

  • Carrie May 19, 2015, 10:02 pm

    When I race, I have to pack my ipod! Music really helps me stay motivated!

  • Lisa P May 19, 2015, 10:29 pm

    I can’t race without none blister socks and salted carmel gu! I had a terrible blister experience after a half and am obsessed with salted carmel. 🙂

  • Sarah L May 19, 2015, 10:35 pm

    Sunglasses! Even when it’s dark or cloudy at the start of a race, I try to remember to bring mine so that I can put them on once things get a little brighter. I’ve raced without them when I left them behind by accident and it was tough for me.

  • Andi May 19, 2015, 10:36 pm

    I’m so glad they redesigned the Spibelt! I wore mine yesterday and it bounced like crazy. 🙁 one thing I never forget is my Garmin!

  • Jennifer May 19, 2015, 10:38 pm

    Toilet paper! You were lucky at his race to have such wonderful facilities but I have experienced portaloos where the paper runs out. Not only will you save yourself you can make a lot of very grateful friends if you hand over the roll once you’re done 🙂

  • Bryn May 19, 2015, 10:49 pm

    I need to bring my phone and snacks!

  • Lisa May 19, 2015, 11:11 pm

    Chapstick and a copy of my health insurance card!

  • Kerri May 20, 2015, 12:15 am

    I have to have my phone!!

  • Ellen M. May 20, 2015, 12:20 am

    I bring extra water and a towel to sit on in the car after the race. Especially when my friends drive me there. I sweat buckets!

  • Meg May 20, 2015, 12:47 am

    Gotta have my zumba headband. I wear it for running too. Very versatile!

  • Lisa @ Life as Lisa Knows It May 20, 2015, 5:31 am

    my iPhone

  • Lindsey May 20, 2015, 6:11 am

    socks would be my most likely to forget item but also would be one of the most missed, if forgotten.

  • Hilary May 20, 2015, 6:33 am

    I never run without something to listen to!

  • katie May 20, 2015, 7:25 am

    depends on the distance– need GU for anything over 6 miles! and always my cell phone

  • Ashley P May 20, 2015, 7:40 am

    Always bring my iPhone for music and to use a running app.

  • Ann-Marie R May 20, 2015, 8:59 am

    Chapstick! Always needed for a race.

    In need of something to hold my extras!

  • Emily May 20, 2015, 9:05 am

    I’ve gotta bring my fuel food – a bagel with peanut butter!

  • Brooke May 20, 2015, 9:05 am

    I always bring my fuel belt!

  • Elizabeth May 20, 2015, 9:10 am

    Definitely sunscreen!

  • Samantha May 20, 2015, 9:55 am

    I must have music!

  • Erin Ellis May 20, 2015, 9:56 am

    I must bring my phone! Thank you for the wonderful giveaway.
    Erin
    ErinLoves2Run at gmail dot com

  • Kendra May 20, 2015, 10:08 am

    Love the fun polka dots on that! …As for me…I never leave home without my PortaPocket 🙂

  • Mirya May 20, 2015, 10:16 am

    Phone is the must-have!

  • Danielle May 20, 2015, 10:16 am

    I always race with gloves in cold weather and a hat in hot weather!

  • Bobbie May 20, 2015, 10:37 am

    I MUST have my iphone for music and my nike gps app. Plus, when you have 3 little ones at home I feel like you pretty much always feel the need to have your phone with you.

  • Leanne Mcdonald May 20, 2015, 10:58 am

    I need Glide for pre race and flipflops for after a race! And this weekend I found out I need extra headphones because mine broke at MILE TWO for my first marathon!!!!

  • Louise May 20, 2015, 11:01 am

    Sunglasses are a must!

  • Michelle May 20, 2015, 11:36 am

    Body glide!!

  • Elizabeth May 20, 2015, 12:34 pm

    water!

  • Margaret May 20, 2015, 12:43 pm

    cash money. it’s surprising that i never use it, but i get back to the old fashioned when i bring cash with me in case of emergency.

  • Mary porat May 20, 2015, 1:02 pm

    I love my SpiBelt! Mine has lost elasticity though.. But I would never be caught without it. I holds my iPhone 6,my Toyota key and my pepper spray!

    Thank you!

    • lauren May 20, 2015, 8:02 pm

      Something to keep my hair in place.

  • Lindsey May 20, 2015, 1:48 pm

    i love my spibel but would really love to try the new model!!

  • Carrie May 20, 2015, 2:17 pm

    I must have my gus when I race!

  • Randy May 20, 2015, 3:43 pm

    Easy one, I never race without my asics shoes..
    really nice shoes and they really keep me going!

  • Nina May 20, 2015, 3:45 pm

    I always bring a clean set of comfy clothes and face wipes for afterwards! There’s nothing better than running hard and then feeling clean in non sweaty clothes.

  • APRIL May 20, 2015, 4:50 pm

    Definitely a little tube or container of sunscreen. Makes a huge difference to reapply half way through a run.

  • Brian Goldman May 20, 2015, 5:19 pm

    I love my Swiftwick socks.

  • Ashley May 20, 2015, 6:12 pm

    I could never race without my phone!

  • Jenni May 20, 2015, 6:56 pm

    Have you tried Root makeup?? They have really pretty colors of lip colors and everything is natural, vegan and gluten free. A girl I went to college with started the company. Just wanted to throw it out there! It’s wonderful!!!! http://www.rootpretty.com

    • Caitlin May 21, 2015, 6:31 am

      Oh thanks for linking this! I will send it to BFF nicole, I know she was looking for something like this.

  • Rachel May 20, 2015, 8:09 pm

    My spibelt. It’s at least 5 yrs old and I need a new one!

  • Danielle G. May 20, 2015, 9:11 pm

    I MUST have my phone for music. Such a necessity!

  • Becky Alderiso May 20, 2015, 10:18 pm

    I wish I only had one must-have! I need my phone and headphones, sunglasses, extra hair tie, Chapstick, and fuel (usually shot blocks). Ok and my id because let’s be honest, I may go straight for a beer 🙂

  • Cheryl Shields May 20, 2015, 11:52 pm

    I have to have my phone for music and gps!!

  • Sarah May 21, 2015, 10:01 am

    I have to have my sunglasses.

  • Christy Rankin May 21, 2015, 10:08 am

    I HAVE to bring my iPhone with my music!! It really makes me push harder!!

  • misty brown May 21, 2015, 3:17 pm

    I would use it for my ipod. I use my wireless headphones. (Don’t think I can go running or biking without them ) is the pouch water proof?

  • Teresa May 21, 2015, 3:37 pm

    Must have coffee!

  • Amy May 21, 2015, 4:15 pm

    An extra hair tie-I could never run with my hair down!

  • Katrina May 21, 2015, 5:30 pm

    Sunglasses!

  • Emily May 21, 2015, 7:39 pm

    iPhone and headphones!

  • Joanna May 22, 2015, 6:52 am

    I have become really concise in my race packing. I usually just need my shoes, clothes and watch. I think keeping it simple is best.

  • Jamie May 22, 2015, 10:20 am

    CASH! For a post-race bloody mary of course.

  • marie May 22, 2015, 12:25 pm

    Heart rate monitor! And Water Bottle 🙂

  • Ken C May 22, 2015, 2:11 pm

    My Hat, every season too.

  • sarah r May 22, 2015, 4:04 pm

    i never race without my phone 🙂

  • stephanie odell epley May 22, 2015, 7:28 pm

    I need a spi belt because I just got the courage to run my first marathon and there will be many more. I am hoping to run a ultra.

  • Cassie May 23, 2015, 8:24 pm

    I can’t race without a hat to keep my hair out of my face!!

  • Sarah b May 24, 2015, 8:13 am

    Food. Water. Plastic bags for wet clothing or stinky race gear!!!

  • Ilana May 25, 2015, 9:32 am

    Bobby pins are essential!

  • Cassidy May 26, 2015, 9:53 pm

    Music!

  • chaya leder May 27, 2015, 12:58 pm

    I must bring my metrocard so i could get bakc home 🙂

    • SE August 5, 2015, 12:50 am

      THANK YOU SO MUCH for including info on a quick-drying sports bra for busty women! I’ve been searching high and low for articles on this topic as I’ll be participating in my first sprint-tri in less than a month and I’ve been getting frustrated with the lack of options for transition from swim to bike and run.

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