If you’re running a marathon this year, runners have been sharing their lesser-known race day essentials to help see you through to the finish line, from portable chargers to nail clippers
With the marathon just two days away, it’s likely you’ve already got your race day essentials sorted. However, if you’re looking to top up on those extra items you may have forgotten about or have a race coming up later in the year, runners have been sharing their lesser-known must-haves that helped get them through.
Of course, we already know about running vests, gels, and water packs, but what about those little things that may have slipped your mind? Well, we’ve rounded up the secret hacks runners swear by to see them through long-distance races, plus places that offer next-day delivery if you’re looking to place a last-minute pre-marathon order.
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Lip balm
TikTok user @pagesandmiles_ asked her followers what random ‘must-haves’ she must bring with her to the marathon this weekend, and an overwhelming number of responses were lip balm.
This may seem obvious to some, but when you’re caught up prepping for the big day, it can be easy to forget. And as the comments said, there is nothing worse than running 26 miles with uncomfortable, peeling, and sunburnt lips.
SHOP LIPBALMS: Ultrasun Lip Protection SPF50, £10; E45 Lips & Dry Skin Balm, £4.99; andInterval Packable Running Jacket, £5.99
Spare clothes
Extra clothing was flagged many times, and for different reasons. A few noted that it is worth rolling up a thin jumper, spare shorts or leggings in case of unpredictable weather conditions, something we’re very used to here in the UK. While a few others stated it’s worth packing a pair of Crocs or sliders to slip into once you’ve finished the race, plus a change of clothes for when you finish.
SHOP RACE-DAY CLOTHES: Crocs Classic Slip On Clogs, £49.99; Interval Packable Running Jacket, £80; Gymshark Running Leggings, currently £29.40; and New Balance Lightweight Touchscreen Warm Running Gloves, £15.18
Wipes/tissues
Nothing’ll be worse than nipping off to the toilet during the race and realising there’s no toilet paper. Runners have suggested bringing your own packet of tissues or baby wipes to avoid any uncomfortable toilet situations.
The wipes can also be used to clear off any sticky residue from the gels and salt from your skin after sweating.
SHOP WIPES/TISSUES: FreshWipes Antibacterial Body Wipes For Adults, £6.49, and Pocket Tissue Extra Soft, £4.99
Portable charger
A runner stated that reaching the last few miles and having your phone run out of charge is the worst, as you’re left with no music to get through. You also don’t want an uncharged phone when you finish the race and are looking for your friends and family to celebrate.
That’s why a portable charger is a must-have if you can fit it. We’ve found less bulky ones that will be easier to carry or ones that you can attach straight onto your phone case.
SHOP PORTABLE CHARGERS: Anker Nano Power Bank, £19.99 and Belkin 5,000mAh MagSafe Compatible Powerbank & Stand, £29.99
Anti-chafe stick
If you’re prone to chafing thighs, this was probably at the top of your list. But it’s not just handy for thighs; you can apply it to your armpits or where your sports bra digs in, anywhere you need some friction relief.
SHOP ANTI-CHAFE STICKS: Body Glide Original Anti Chafe Balm, £13.99 and Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Anti-Friction Stick, £9.60
Nail clippers
This is a pretty random one, and one that you hopefully won’t need if you’ve done the proper pre-marathon grooming. However, if you find yourself with a toenail that won’t stop digging in, it can get pretty uncomfortable and potentially hard to finish the race.
Nail clippers are so small and compact, it can’t hurt to keep a pair packed away in case of a nail emergency.
SHOP NAIL CLIPPERS: Tweezerman Stainless Steel Nail Clipper 2-Piece Set, £11.98 and Scholl Thick Toenail Scissors, £7.59