Looking to change up your routine? Traveling to a new destination to run a race can be fun and exciting while exploring new places. Running is a great excuse for you to plan your next vacation.
Destination runs can get you excited about training and motivate you toward your end goals. Learn how to plan your next race vacation below.
Pick Your Race Location
You can pick a race vacation location closer to home or plan a more extensive vacation focused around running, a “runcation”. If you’re looking for a new place to run, consider looking for a particular type of race to run in. There are lots of different races with fun themes and features that you can take advantage of.
There are your more traditional races like 10Ks and marathons, but there are also more obstacle-focused runs for the adventurous. Looking for inspiration? Check out the Color Run or the Krispy Kreme Run online. If you don’t have a preference for a specific race, pick your location first and then see when a race is happening.
Preparing For Race Day
Once you pick a place, consider the location’s topography and integrate it into your training regiment. If it’s a hilly race, think about how to practice at home first so you’re prepared for race day. Also, If you are changing time zones for your race, consider how that will affect your body. If possible, try traveling a few days before race day to get acclimated. Is it not possible to get there early? Try adjusting your bedtime at home by a few hours so you’re ready for your race vacation once you arrive. Consider the elevation of where you will be running. If it’s a lot higher than you are used to, it might be difficult to adjust. Remember to drink plenty of water while getting ready for race day. Traveling can be very dehydrating!
Pack Your MobilDri
It’s important to pack your MobilDri Portable boot dryer for your running vacation. Even if the weather is bad, you can dry your gear on the go with your MobilDri and prevent it from becoming stinky. Eliminate bacterial growth in your running shoes by using the best portable dryer that runs on your car’s battery and just has to be plugged into the 12V aux outlet (cigarette lighter). This portable boot and glove dryer has two settings to get your gear ready to put back on. Heat mode and fan-only mode. Heat mode dries your gear fast, and fan-only mode is a great, energy-efficient option for drying.
Even if it’s not raining on race day, drying out your shoes after sweating in them helps reduce any foul odors. If you’re running in cold and damp climates, you don’t need to worry about packing extra shoes, just pack your MobilDri for warm, dry shoes every day. The MobilDri portable boot dryer with heat is easy to bring with you on all your running adventures with the included kit bag. Pack the base unit along with all the tube drying accessories for your shoes, gloves, and hats into the bag and you’re ready to go.
Other Important Items to Pack
Racing weather can be variable and you want to be prepared for race day. Pack a few extra options for the big day in case the weather isn’t what you expect it to be. If you have any small and light pre-race fuel that you can easily pack in your bag, bring it. Anything that can commonly be found in grocery stores or heavy items can be picked up locally. Eating out of the local grocery store can also help reduce costs while you’re traveling. Any critical items that you need for race vacation (like your shoes!) should be packed in a carry-on instead of a checked bag.
Review Race Day Logistics
The racing website can provide the valuable details you need for a great experience. It can tell you when and where to pick up your bib, water and aid stations, and other helpful local information. You can also look for course details or videos to help you prepare. If you’re racing in a larger city, think about how you are going to travel to the start line. Reach out to the local running club for some good insider tips.
Consider Local Races
Don’t worry about booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. Check out drivable races in your area to save money and time. Local running clubs will post about nearby races on social media or you can ask what’s going on at the local running shop. If you are not interested in racing against others, you can draw inspiration from local races about where to run in your free time. Race organizers often work hard to curate great routes and then post maps online that you can use whenever you want. Staying local is a great way to change up your routine and it’s really easy.
Keep your MobilDri Portable dryer in the car for any rainy days you might encounter while exploring just beyond your backyard. You can dry your stuff in the car on your way home so it’s ready for your next adventure. Properly drying your shoes and other gear will keep the odors down and help extend their useful life.
Have Fun
Try planning your race day more toward the beginning of your trip so you can take a few days to relax afterward and enjoy your destination. If you’re looking for tips on what to do in your time outside of the race check out the racing website for tips. Remember to enjoy the journey and take it easy the day before the race so you’re ready. Save the intense walking and exploring days for after your race. It’s also a good idea to remain calm and be flexible during your trip. Traveling can be challenging and sometimes things don’t always go to plan. Just appreciate your adventures and have fun during your race!
Check out Amazon to purchase your portable boot and glove dryer for your friends and family so you can enjoy your next destination race!
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