Being organized is important in many areas of life, especially when it comes to competing in the sport of triathlon. There are so many moving parts on race-day with regard to equipment needs, nutrition and pacing strategies that even a small misstep can mean the difference between a successful outcome and a disappointing race-day experience.
Every triathlete should develop a race-day checklist. This list should include everything necessary to have a positive event, from the time you wake up to when the race is over. Always be prepared for the worse too, especially when it comes to potential bike-related mechanical issues and weather.
Below is a summary checklist of items you may wish to consider packing for race-day, as well as additional tips to remember leading up to the race and on the day of the event. Add whatever works for you as needed.
- Special foods or drinks
- Extra shoes
- Special needs bags (if allowed on the race course)
- Tri bag
- Necessary medications (inhalers, etc)
- Toilet paper
- Extra alarm clock
- Warm-up suit/warm clothes
- Umbrella or rain gear
- Timing chip band
- Multi-tool kit
- Electrical tape
- Swimsuit or tri race kit
- Swim cap
- Goggles
- Wetsuit or swim skin
- Helmet
- Cycling shoes
- Bike/tri shorts or tri race kit
- Pump
- Water bottles
- Nutrition bag
- Flat repair kit (tire, tube, tire levers, CO2)
- Arm warmers or leg warmers
- Light wind vest
- Sunglasses
- Sunblock
- Race belt
- Socks
- Running shoes with quick laces
- Hydration belt or water bottle
- Hat or visor
- Towel or mat
- Extra water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Anti-chafe cream
- Extra clothes
- Extra shoes/flip flops
- Recovery nutrition
- Sunscreen