Are you planning to travel for a marathon? From packing the right gear to adjusting your
training for different climates and time zones, we’ve compiled a guide of everything you need to
consider to ensure you’re race-day ready, no matter where you’re running.
Planning Your Marathon Travel
When planning your marathon journey, choosing the right destination, booking convenient
accommodations, and timing your arrival are all key steps to ensure a smooth race-day
experience
Choosing the Right Marathon Destination
Selecting the right marathon isn’t just about picking a scenic course or bucket list destination,
it’s about understanding how the location’s climate, altitude, and terrain will affect your
performance. If you’re used to running at sea level, a higher altitude location like Las Vegas may
require extra training to prepare for lower oxygen levels. Similarly, hot and humid locations, such
Internal as Ocala, demand heat adaptation. Finally, hilly courses, like the New York City Marathon,
require hill training to build endurance.
Booking Travel & Accommodation
Where you stay can make or break your race-day experience. The best option is to book a
hotel or rental as close to the starting line as possible, reducing the need for stressful,
early-morning transportation. If that’s not possible, look for accommodations near public
transit or race shuttle pickup locations. For added flexibility and convenience, renting a car
allows you to stay in a location that best suits your budget and preferences while still allowing
for stress-free travel on race day.
Timing Your Arrival
Arriving at least 2-3 days before race day gives your body time to adjust to any time zone
differences, altitude changes, or climate shifts. This also allows you to do a short shakeout run,
pick up your race packet, and familiarize yourself with the course – helping to set you up for
race-day success.
Training Adjustments for Travel
When preparing for a marathon in a new location, making the right training adjustments is key
to ensure you’re physically ready for the unique challenges you’ll face on race day.
Understanding Terrain & Climate
As mentioned earlier, one of the most important aspects of preparing for a marathon in a new
location is understanding the terrain and climate you’ll be racing in. By incorporating hill training
to build endurance, or replicating hot & humid or cold weather conditions, you’ll be able to
adapt your body to the conditions you’ll face during your next race.
Acclimating to Time Zones
Adjusting to a new time zone can be just as important as adjusting to the climate or terrain. To
minimize jet lag and ensure you’re well-rested for race day, begin making changes to your sleep
schedule several days before departure. Gradually go to bed and wake up an hour earlier or
later, depending on your destination’s time zone, so your body has time to adapt.
The Ultimate Marathon Travel Checklist
Packing the right race essentials is key when preparing for race day, so you can focus on
running your best marathon, and maybe even setting a new PR.
Race Essentials
After you’ve decided the location of your next race and are adequately trained for the climate
and terrain, packing your race essentials is the next step in ensuring you’re fully prepared to
tackle your next marathon. The most important items to pack for race day are your bib and
timing chip, absolute essentials for your race registration and tracking.
Though many veteran marathon runners have nailed down their race day outfits, make sure
yours is comfortable and something you’ve already worn while training. Additionally, bring
running sneakers that have already been broken in to prevent blisters and added discomfort.
Finally, consider packing a hydration belt and extra energy gels and snacks in case the race
does not provide sufficient water stations or snacks of their own for racers.
Travel & Recovery Must-Haves
During travel – especially after the race – certain items are crucial for your comfort and
recovery. A foam roller is essential for loosening up tight muscles, especially after long flights or
drives, while carrying electrolytes will help you stay hydrated and replenish vital minerals that
you lose through sweat during the race. Post-race, compression socks can help promote
circulation and reduce swelling. Finally, don’t forget to pack sunscreen. Even if you’re racing in
cooler climates, protecting your skin is essential, especially if you’re outdoors for extended
periods.
Race Week & Race Day Strategy
Stick to a consistent schedule
When it comes to your pre-race routine, consistency is key. Stick to familiar meals that you’ve
been eating throughout your training to avoid any surprises. Your body is used to certain foods,
so introducing anything new could cause discomfort. Hydration is just as important as the food
you consume, so continue following the hydration plan that works best for you, adjusting for the
new climate if needed. Additionally, continue to maintain your pre-race sleep schedule as
much as possible to ensure you’re well-rested for the big day.
Go for a pre-race jog
After arriving at your race destination, the first step in adjusting to your new environment is to
shake off any travel fatigue. A light jog or easy run upon your arrival will help loosen up your
muscles, get the blood flowing, and adjust to the local climate. This also gives you a chance to
familiarize yourself with the area, which can help ease your nerves as race day approaches.
However, be sure to keep your run short and comfortable to avoid overexerting yourself before
race day.
Familiarize yourself with the course
Before race day, make sure that you take some time to navigate the course. Study the race
map to understand the layout, familiarize yourself with any elevation changes, and note where
the aid stations are located. Knowing the course will help you plan your pacing and refueling
strategy, ensuring you’re ready to take on the race with confidence.
Post-Race Recovery & Travel Home
Once you’ve crossed the finish line, take time to celebrate your achievement by exploring the
destination and enjoying the post-race atmosphere!
After taking in the sights of a new city and celebrating your new achievement, hydration is
crucial to replenish fluids lost during the race. Follow up with stretching to help ease tight
muscles and improve recovery, as well as refueling your body with proper nutrition such as
carbs, protein, and healthy fats to help aid your muscles in recovery.
To avoid travel fatigue, especially after a long flight or car ride, consider wearing compression
socks to improve circulation and reduce swelling. During your travels home, try to incorporate
some light movement like walking or stretching in your seat to prevent muscle stiffness.
Reflecting on Your Marathon Experience
When tackling something as big as a marathon, proper preparation is key to ensuring a
successful experience, especially when traveling to a new location. From adjusting your training
to account for climate and terrain differences, to organizing your travel logistics – thoughtful
planning will help you overcome any challenges and make your race day as smooth and
enjoyable as possible.
Remember, the more you prepare, the more you’ll be able to focus on the excitement of the
race itself. With the right planning, you’ll be ready to conquer 26.2 miles, no matter where you
run! Make your travel seamless with a SIXT rental car to get you to the start line stress-free.
