Last-Minute Ragnar Relay Packing Guide

By Janelle @ Run With No Regrets | running tips

Jun 02

Would you like to run over 200 miles with 11 awesome friends?  That’s what I’ll be up to this weekend at the Ragnar Relay Pennsylvania!

This has been on my running bucket list for YEARS and I couldn’t be more excited about the big event, but I’m also pretty nervous!  Unfortunately, my procrastination doesn’t work as a strength in situations like this, but in event, here’s my last-minute Ragnar Relay packing guide!

I’m linking up with Marcia, Patty, and Erika for Tuesdays on the RunSusie, Debbie, Lora, and Rachel for the Running Coaches Corner and Annmarie, Nicole, and Jen for Wild Workout Wednesday!  

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links.

If you're a last-minute packer, this is the Ragnar Relay Packing Guide that you've been looking for!

Packing List for Ragnar Relay

I’m so excited to be running my very first Ragnar Relay this weekend in Pennsylvania with the City Fit Girls!  Check out this post introducing our team!  Not only will I be in Van 1 but I will be the very first runner…no pressure, right?

As I embark on this journey, I thought it would be helpful to share my packing list for the trip!  It also doesn’t hurt that I’m using this list to make sure I don’t forget anything!  I consulted several guides and some last-minute tips from my teammates so if you’re interested in doing a Ragnar, here’s an idea of what you’ll need!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links.

Race Outfits

Since I am responsible for running 3 legs of the race, I am packing 3 distinct racing outfits from head to toe!  I’m following the advice I’ve heard from many that each outfit should be packed in a separate gallon-sized Ziploc bag!  Adding layers to your outfit will depend on the time of the year you’re racing.

  • Running Shoes
  • 3 Pairs of Shorts/Capris
  • 3 Short-Sleeved Shirts/Tanks (weather-depending)
  • 3 Pairs of Socks
  • 3 Sports Bras
  • 3 Sets of Underwear
  • Headbands/Hats

Non-Racing Outfits

I’m also packing some clothes to wear between my runs – there’s a lot of “spare” time where I’ll be hanging out in the van, getting some rest, or cheering on my fellow runners.  Recovering my body and feeling comfortable is most imperative!

  • Finish Line Team Outfit
  • Rain Jacket (just in case!)
  • Pajamas (for the nights before and after the relay)
  • Comfy Socks
  • Hoodie/Zip-Up Sweatshirt
  • Tee Shirts
  • Lounging Pants/Sweatpants
  • Underwear
  • OOFOS OOmg Recovery Shoes/Flip-Flops

Safety Gear:

Ragnar takes safety very seriously.  Since this race is overnight, running in the dark safely is key!  My last leg is between 3 and 4 am, so you will bet I will have my wits about me and be, as my teammates called me, “lit up like a Christmas tree”!

  • Knuckle Lights/Headlamp
  • Reflective Vest
  • Reflective Arm Bands
  • RoadID
  • LED Lights (provided by teammates)
You may also like:  1/2 Sauer 1/2 Kraut Half Marathon Week 4

Fueling, Hydration, and Snacks

Having the right fuel is key! Running so much mileage in a short time period means that having electrolytes, carbs, and protein is more important than ever!  Thankfully, my legs aren’t too tough or long, but it’s still gonna be a challenge!  Here’s my recommended list.

  • Lots of Water
  • Orange Mud Hydraquiver/Hydration Belt
  • Vitalyte Electrolyte Powder/Nuun/etc.
  • Honey Stinger Chews/Gels
  • Clif Bars/Lara Bars/etc.
  • Candy/Chips
  • Sandwiches/Fruit/etc.

Recovery Tools

Recovering during the downtime between legs is so important!  I have to be honest – I haven’t done any two-a-days to prepare for the Ragnar, so keeping my body in top shape for 3 runs in 36 hours will be critical!  Here are the supplies that I will be bringing.

  • Tiger Tail (perfect size for travel)
  • Rubz Foot Massager
  • Compression Socks (3 pairs)
  • Reusable cold therapy packs – just in case my knees need them!
  • Foam Roller (provided by teammates)
  • KT Tape or similar (affiliate link)

Electronics

You gotta stay connected, right?  And when you’re running on your own during the race, it’s important to be able to contact your van in case of an emergency, like getting lost!

  • Cell Phone (of course!)
  • Portable Charger
  • Nike+/GPS Watch Charger
  • Cell Phone Charger
  • 2-Way Radio (provided by teammates)

Toiletries

Staying fresh and clean is key for Ragnar!  I’m not gonna lie…I can get pretty funky during a run, especially in the heat!  Here’s what I’m bringing to stay as refreshed as possible!

  • Toothbrush/toothpaste/dental floss
  • Hair brush/accessories
  • Deodorant
  • Body Glide/Anti-Chafing Product
  • Body Wipes/Sweat Towel/ShowerPills
  • Lip Balm
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Hand Sanitizer

Items for the Van/Sleeping Outside

I’m really not sure how much sleep I’ll actually get, but I know I’ll be at least napping in the van and want to be as comfortable as possible!  Here’s my suggested list of things to bring.

  • Pillow
  • Blanket/Yoga Mat/Sleeping Bag
  • Beach Towel (for changing clothes)
  • Headphones

Miscellaneous

Here are some other random items that I’ll be bringing for the trip or may be part of your responsibilities for your team!

  • Believe Training Journal
  • Reading Book/Magazine/iPad
  • Coffee Cup for Hot Drinks
  • Van Decorations
  • Team Costumes

Have you ever run a Ragnar or similar relay race?  What do you wish you had on your packing list?

KT Tape | Kinesiology Therapeutic Tape | Train Longer. Finisher Stronger. | Shop Now

(3) comments

Add Your Reply