Marathon race day checklist — everything ready for race morning
In the rush of race morning, even the smallest missing item can rattle you; things like safety pins, the chip or anti-chafe balm are often forgotten. This list puts the most important things first so your bag is complete the evening before. Share it with a room code with the friends you're running with; no sign-up needed.
In short
A marathon race-day bag should hold your race bib, safety pins, timing chip, the shoes and clothes you're used to, energy gels, petroleum jelly or anti-chafe balm, sunscreen and a running watch. Dry spare clothes and an optional thermal blanket help at the finish. The golden rule: don't try anything new on race day; test everything in training beforehand.
14 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.
What's on the list
General
- Race bibfrom race pack pickup
- Safety pins4 pins
- Timing chipattach as the race says
- Your usual running shoesnothing new on race day
- Your usual race outfittested in training
- Running socksyour tried pair
- Running watchfully charged
- ID and registration confirmation
- Cap or visor
- Spare clothes for after the racedry shirt, socks
- Thermal blanketoptional
Sweets & snacks
- Energy gelsones you've tried before
Personal care
- Petroleum jelly or anti-chafe balmfor areas that rub
- Sunscreen
Tips
Don't try anything new on race day: shoes, clothes, socks and gels should all be tested on long training runs beforehand.
Pack your bag the day before; attach the bib and chip as the race instructions say and check them.
Apply petroleum jelly or anti-chafe balm before the race to areas that rub, like the inner thighs and underarms.
Don't hang around in sweaty clothes at the finish; your body cools quickly, so keep dry clothes ready.
How it works
1. Open your room
Tap the button and the items land in a fresh room. No account, no email, nothing to install.
2. Share the code
Send the room code or the link to the group; everyone's on the same list in seconds.
3. Finish it together
Who's buying what shows up instantly; bought items get ticked, so nobody buys the same thing twice.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you attach the timing chip?
It depends on the race: in some, the chip is on the back of the bib, in others it clips onto your shoelaces. Follow the instructions you get at race pack pickup and check the chip before the start.
Can you wear new shoes on race day?
No, it's best not to wear new shoes on race day. Wearing the shoes and socks you've used on long training runs lowers the risk of blisters and chafing.
Why do you need spare clothes after the race?
Once you stop, your body cools quickly and sweaty clothes can leave you cold. Putting on a dry shirt and socks makes waiting in the finish area more comfortable.
Can I change the list?
Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.
Do I need an account?
No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.
How long is the list kept?
As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.
Can I install it on my phone?
Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.