Having a triathlon race day packing list can save a lot of stress!
I suggest:
Going over this way before your race to make sure you don’t need to get anything new.
Not leaving packing until the last minute! A lot of stress can be saved by knowing you have packed and done it systematically rather than running round like a mad thing just before you leave!
For long distance races where you will hand in a bag for each transition in advance, pack your kit into a different bag for each (this will remind you if e.g. you need sunscreen or tampons for each bag).
Printing this out, adding on anything specific to you, and keeping it with your race kit.
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Your triathlon race day packing list
Swim – start
Wetsuit (depending on if it's outdoors and time of year), if it’s particularly hot or cold you may not be allowed/have to wear one
Trisuit or tri shorts and top (these go under the wetsuit, you can’t get naked to change in transition!)
Sports bra (if needed)
Goggles, swim cap (caps are usually supplied by the race organisers)
Heart rate strap (if using)
You may want flip flops or similar that you don’t mind potentially losing to get to the swim start
Bike / T1
Bike – if borrowing or hiring make sure you’ve practiced on it and it’s fitted for you
Helmet
Puncture repair kit (and the ability to use it!)
Water bottles and nutrition
Sunglasses
Socks (if you’ve always worn them in training, don’t pick race day to try without)
Bike shoes (if using)
Elastic bands – if using for transition
Tri belt – some races only give one number and you need it on your back for the bike and front for the run.
Towel – to dry yourself off before the bike
Bike computer, power meter (and ensure both charged if using)
Run / T2
Run shoes
Tri laces – saves fumbling round tying knots in transition
Cap/visor and glasses
Energy gels
Misc / optional
Check the weather before packing, but be prepared for all eventualities! e.g. Windproof bike options
Shakedown ride spare kit
Registration info (if sent in advance) – including race number, timing chip, swim cap etc
Bike computer, Garmin/ watch etc – make sure it's charged and you know how it works
Suncream
Talc (for your shoes and socks to speed up transition)
Wetsuit lube – to stop it rubbing on your neck, and on arms and ankles to make removal faster
Race license – if you are a BTF member and got cheaper race entry, you’ll need to show your membership card to prove you are insured, otherwise bring change to pay for insurance on the day (check race briefing)
Course maps
Pre and post-race nutrition
Pre and post-race clothes to keep you warm (and you may want some comfy shoes for after)
Additional things you might want for longer distance races (optional)
Gloves for bike
Insulation tape or similar to write nutrition and power/pacing strategy on bike
Extra shorts for additional padding on bike
Drinks bottles you don't mind throwing away for bike
Extra nutrition etc for special needs bag (if an option)
Nutrition storage for bike (larger bento box etc)
Bum bag/ run vest or similar for run hydration/ nutrition
Bike top for bike (with more pockets), run vest for run
Spare trainers for pre race day registration etc (you might be walking a lot and run shoes may be racked), in case they cancel the swim and make it a duathlon (2 pairs of shoes easier), plus pre race warm up
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