Triathlon Race Day Check List

Triathlon Transition Area

Triathlon Race Day Checklist

Preparing for a triathlon can be overwhelming, especially with all the gear and equipment needed. To help you stay organized, we’ve created a comprehensive checklist that covers everything you’ll need for race day. Use this list when packing your gear and the day before the race to ensure you have everything you need.

General Essentials

  • Race confirmation and ID

  • Cash and credit card

  • Watch or GPS device

  • Phone and charger

  • Race plan and nutrition plan

  • Emergency contact information

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Body Glide or anti-chafing cream

  • Towel

  • Post-race clothing

  • Post-race recovery food and drink

  • Race number(s) and/or timing chips

Swim Gear

  • Tri suit or swim suit

  • Wetsuit (if allowed)

  • Swim cap (usually provided by the race)

  • Goggles (plus a spare pair with varied lense choices)

  • Ear plugs (if needed)

  • Nose clip (if needed)

  • Waterproof watch or smart watch if desired

  • Body Glide or anti-chafing cream

  • Neoprene hoodie (if conditions are cold)

  • Neoprene booties (if conditions are cold)

Bike Gear

  • Bike (tuned and ready)

  • Helmet (mandatory)

  • Cycling shoes

  • Socks (if desired especially for longer races)

  • Bike gloves (if desired)

  • Sunglasses

  • Bike pump

  • Spare tubes and patch kit

  • Tire levers

  • CO2 cartridges or mini pump

  • Multi-tool

  • Bike computer or GPS

  • Water bottles and/or hydration system

  • Nutrition (gels, bars, etc.)

  • Race belt (for your number)

  • Extra chain links and bike lube

Run Gear

  • Running shoes

  • Socks

  • Running hat or visor

  • Sunglasses

  • Race belt (if not already used for bike)

  • Water bottle or hydration system (if needed for longer events)

  • Nutrition (gels, bars, etc.)

  • Body Glide or anti-chafing cream

Transition Gear

  • Transition bag or bucket

  • Towel for transition area

  • Extra nutrition and water

  • Plastic bags (for wet gear)

  • Baby powder (to dry feet if desired)

  • Small stool (if needed for changing) *note some races will not allow extras like this in transition

  • Number belt or safety pins for race number

  • Arm warmers or jacket (if weather is cool)

Pre-Race Preparation

  • Check weather forecast

  • Familiarize yourself with the race course

  • Review the race rules and regulations

  • Plan your nutrition and hydration strategy

  • Prepare a list of contact numbers for emergencies

  • Set multiple alarms for race day wake-up

  • Map out directions to the race venue

  • Check the timing chip (if provided)

Optional Extras

  • Headlamp or flashlight (for early morning setup)

  • Earbuds or headphones (for post-race)

  • Yoga mat or foam roller (for stretching)

  • Camera or GoPro (to capture the race)

  • Extra hair ties or headbands

Feel free to customize this list based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your race. Good luck, and enjoy your triathlon experience!

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