As I was preparing for my first sprint triathlon, I scoured the internet checking over multiple different packing lists to create my own. Because the triathlon was many, many hours away from where I lived, I needed to make SURE I packed everything I needed for the race. Recently I’ve noticed a few people finding my blog through search terms like “what to pack for my first sprint triathlon”, so I thought I’d do a post on the topic! Here’s a typed up l packing list of things I brought to my tri:
Race Outfit
- tri shorts
- sports bra (or other top to swim in)
- shirt
- 2 pairs of socks
- headband or hat
- tennis shoes
- cycle shoes (I don’t clip in so I didn’t need them)
- goggles
- swim cap (many races give one to you)
- sunglasses
- spi belt
- helmet
- cycling gloves (i don’t have them but many people use them!)
- flip flops (to wear before/after race)
Transition Zone Items
- Bike
- 2 towels- one to wipe feet, one to set stuff on
- 3 water bottles (1 for bike, 1-2 to clean off feet after swim)
- shot blocks (or other fuel)
- Garmin or phone for time/pace
- bandaids in a small bag
- sunblock
After Race Items
- Water/juice for the car
- Protein bar for the drive home
- towel for the seat in the car
- compression sleeves
- dry shirt and shorts
Other Items
- small pair of scissors (for sizing ankle band that race chip is on)
- Pre-race breakfast
- plastic bag to put towel and extra pair of socks in a Tzone in case it rains
- Bike Pump
- Extra bike tube (attached to bike incase you get a flat!)
- Something (like a balloon) to mark your spot in the Tzone so you can easily find your bike after the swim.
I didn’t take a picture of how I set up my transition zone (next time I will!), but this picture will give you an idea of what the Tzone is like:
It’s chaotic and so full of energy! It’s fantastic (but a little overwhelming)!
I’m sorry. I couldn’t help it. I just had to put in this picture again of me about to cross the finish line:)
Now it’s your turn! What are some of your “must haves” for a race? What’s your go to food item after races?
