# 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. ## What's on the list ### General - Race bib — from race pack pickup - Safety pins — 4 pins - Timing chip — attach as the race says - Your usual running shoes — nothing new on race day - Your usual race outfit — tested in training - Running socks — your tried pair - Running watch — fully charged - ID and registration confirmation - Cap or visor - Spare clothes for after the race — dry shirt, socks - Thermal blanket — optional ### Sweets & snacks - Energy gels — ones you've tried before ### Personal care - Petroleum jelly or anti-chafe balm — for 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. ## 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. --- [Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/marathon-race-day-checklist) — 14 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.