With the Queenstown 2025 experience still fresh in my mind, it seems like a good opportunity to jot down my top tips for running away. I’ve also travelled both personally and professionally to races all over Australia, the states and the UK, so I hope that these tried-and-tested tips will make things go a little smoother for you when the time comes.
Preparation
It’s not just about making sure the bags are packed, it’s about making sure your body, your tummy, your mind and your heart are ready for what’s coming up. So make sure you eat and drink well in the days before leaving, maintain consistent sleep and plan carefully for what you will need while you’re away, on race day, and on your recovery and return journeys.
Pack Smart
My one non-negotiable travel rule is that I travel with my race day kit in my carry on bag. When I did the New York Marathon in 2024, someone in our tour group had their luggage go missing and they had to scramble to find something to run in! And no-one needs that level of stress. So make sure every single indispensable element of your race day gear is in your carry on bag and remains within sight during your whole trip. Shoes, socks, undies, top, contact lenses, sunnies, hat etc.
If you’re unsure about the airline food it can be worth packing your own snacks for the flight, and I always like to include an empty water bottle which I fill up after I go through security. Having this handy so I can make sure I stay hydrated is a game changer. Also, if race day breakfast is going to pose a challenge, why not pack your own? A ziplock bag containing your favourite cereal or oats will mean you don’t load your tummy with any strange surprises on race day morning. Just make sure that your destination country allows you to bring food in this way.
Long-Haul Flight Essentials
If you’re flying long haul I recommend a little pouch containing a body lotion (why do my hands get so dry on planes?), antibacterial wipes and a facemask. Before I sit down I give my whole seat, tray and arm rests a quick wipe down and I wear the mask for the whole flight except when I’m eating.
Optional nice-to-haves include some noise cancelling earphones, an eye mask and/or ear plugs too.
And from the moment you’re on the plane, try to behave as if you are on your destination time zone already. So eat, sleep and be alert (well, as much as you can on long haul!) as if you’re already there.
Put jet lag in the bag
When you get to your accommodation, try to stay awake. Going for a walk in the sunshine is a great way to re-set, and eat and drink according to your new time zone rules. Explore just enough to settle in without exhausting yourself.
Shaking out and settling in
A pre-race day shakout run is always a good idea, but try to keep it to 30 mins or less. If you need to go to the expo, try and get in and out with minimal fuss and do all your sightseeing from a bus or a taxi. In other words, stay off your feet! Drink water and eat aaalll the carbs. Set out your flat me, and try to get into bed early.
Nutrition and Hydration
Choose your travel meals based on familiarity, and save the exotic sampling for after the race. Keep your pre-race dinner and breakfast simple and familiar, and bring backup gels and bars if your brand isn’t sold locally.
Start-Line Preparation
Before you travel, make sure your research how you’ll be getting to the start line, and pack accordingly. In the months preceeding your trip, save the clothes you were going to donate to be your emergency thermal layers and/or pillows. You can leave these at the start line once you’re underway!
Enjoy the Experience
As a runner who values the memories over the medals, I’d encourage you to make time to enjoy the run. Don’t be afraid to pause to take photos, and make sure you concioussly soak up the atmosphere, the crowds and the skyline. It’s a big part of the magic of the day and the reason you travelled so far to take part. Don’t miss it.
Post-Race Recovery and Celebration
Take advantage of the finish line swag, eat drink and rest! And yes, you now have full license to enjoy the beers, champagne and oysters you’ve been avoiding. But managing your stiffness and sleep will still be a priority, so packing some compression gear or planning an easy walk the next day can make a big difference.
When it doesn’t go to plan
Hopefully your carry on will save you from any lost luggage disasters, but things still go wrong! Cancelled flights, unexpected weather, illness or a massive change of plan will mean things can go sideways quickly. First and foremost ALWAYS make sure you have good travel insurance. Your medical bills, emergency accommodation and trip home need to be guaranteed no matter what happens. But apart from that, if you can’t control it just try not to worry about it. Sometimes when things go wrong they make the best memories.
Final Thoughts
Race travel is an adventure, and a privilege. Embrace the unknown and approach everything with curiosity, not comparison. Planning and preparation are key, but so is the spirit of adventure. If you think you’d like to run away with me in future, please let me know and I’ll make sure you get included in all the updates!