Outdoor Buddies · Prepare for your next long run
A good trail running packing list is based on the environment, the time between refills, and what you need if your plans change. Lay out your gear first, then choose a vest that will comfortably hold it.
This list will help you plan long runs and mountain races. It is a working basis to adapt, not an official or complete mandatory equipment list for a particular race. The organizer's current rules always apply to competitions.
Four questions before you pack
- How long can you stay outside? Take into account terrain, elevation gain and the possibility of having to walk.
- Where can you fill up? Distinguish confirmed stations from water sources that may be unsafe.
- How exposed is the trip? Distance to shelter, cell phone coverage, and weather may be more important than the number of kilometers.
- What requirements apply? Read the race's current equipment list and any additions for cold, heat or darkness.
A shorter tour near settlements may require less packing than a mountain trip of the same distance. A beautiful forecast does not remove the need to be able to handle a stop. Adjust your packing to the consequences of staying longer than planned.
Packing list for trail running and mountain hiking
| Part of the package | To go through | Practical control |
|---|---|---|
| Shoes and socks | A combination you have tried on relevant surfaces. | Toe space, grip and how it feels after a long time. |
| Vest or backpack | Space for all equipment and planned drinks. | Sample pack and run with filled bottles. |
| Beverage and containers | Bottles or bladder and confirmed refill points. | Capacity, openings and possible cleaning or water purification. |
| Energy | Products you've tried, broken down by stage of the tour. | Accessibility, packaging and a reserve in case of delay. |
| Wind and rain protection | Jacket and, if necessary, trousers for the environment. | Hood, seams and the specific requirements of the race. |
| Heat reserve | Dry clothing, hat and gloves depending on conditions. | Protection against wetness and the ability to get dressed at a stop. |
| Navigation | Current map, compass and knowledge to use them in a mountain environment. | Digital route can supplement; check offline access and battery. |
| Communication | Charged phone, relevant numbers and power reserve if needed. | Protect your phone; mobile coverage may be lacking. |
| Light | Headlamp if dark is possible and a spare according to luck and rules. | Operating time in usable mode and that everything is charged. |
| First aid and protection | Appropriate first aid, abrasion management, whistle and emergency blanket or other protection according to the environment. | You should know how to use the equipment and access it when needed. |
| Race-specific parts | For example, cup, number tag, identification or other specified equipment. | Read exactly what the organizer requires for your distance and this year's edition. |
| Small but important things | Keys, payment when needed and space for trash. | Store safely and take all waste home. |
This list is not sufficient for every mountain or winter trip. More remote routes, multiple days and more difficult conditions require additional planning, equipment and knowledge. Choose a trip based on experience and check local advice before setting off.
Compare outerwear · See first aid · See emergency blankets
Plan energy and fluid between refills
Divide the trip into stages and estimate the time between safe refuelings. For a race, use the organizer's current station information. For your own trip, you need to check for yourself what you can actually rely on.
Test the products on training. Pack each stage's energy so that it can be reached without emptying the vest and have some margin for a slower stage. Check if the packages are easy to open with cold or wet hands.
Don't just count the number of gels or scoops. Different products have different contents and serving sizes. Use the product information and a plan you have practiced with. The capacity of the containers should be enough for your plan, but is not in itself a target for how much you should drink.
If you want help combining energy with estimated time and previous experiences, there are our existing energy guides and the personal energy plan service. There you can proceed without confusing the packing list with a general dosage for all runners.
Read energy guides for training and racing · See energy options · Get a personalized energy plan
Pack the vest so it works while moving
Have drinks and energy for the next stage easily accessible. Put clothes you may need quickly where they can be reached without everything else being dragged along. Protect dry clothing and electronics from getting wet.
Distribute heavier items close to your body and try repacking if the vest pulls sideways. Make sure sharp objects and pole tips are secured. A pocket that works for soft gloves is not automatically the right place for unprotected electronics or a hard battery.
Do a packed test session
Run and walk on similar terrain with the same clothes, filled bottles and planned packing. Take out your jacket, drink, eat and try out any pole mounts. Note what is hard to reach and change at home. It is easier to discover an impractical pocket on a short test run than in the middle of the race.
Read the guide to running vests · Plan your headlamp and batteries · Choose and pack running poles
Final check before start
- Read the weather forecast again and check for any new information from the organizer.
- Check that shoes, laces, vest and bottles are working.
- Charge your phone and lights, open your route and check offline functionality where needed.
- Check mandatory equipment line by line, even small details and specified sizes.
- Tell someone your planned route and return time when you go on your own trips.
- Determine what makes you turn around or cancel and where it can be done.
Repack immediately after the test session or write down what needs to be filled in. Then the final check will be a review of a proven solution, not the first time everything has to fit.
Review the equipment with us
Send us the race name, distance, estimated time and current equipment list. Also tell us what you already own. We will help you find relevant accessories and a suitable carrying solution.
Frequently asked questions
Is this packing list approved for my race?
The organizer decides what is required. Use the preparation guide and then check the current mandatory list for your distance.
What size vest do I need for a mountain run?
Lay out the required equipment, your personal accessories and full planned hydration. Choose a vest that holds everything and fits well when you run with it.
Can I leave the rain jacket if the forecast is good?
When competing, mandatory equipment must be brought with you according to the rules. When riding on your own, you need to assess the exposure and weather changes, not just the weather at the start.
Do I need both a phone and another navigation system?
In a mountain environment, you should be able to orient yourself with a map and compass and know how to use them. A phone and watch can be complementary, but are dependent on a battery and functioning equipment.
