Packing your event bag marks a shift into the final gear of your marathon journey: game time.

Although exciting, it’s important to be well equipped but not excessive when it comes to packing (and your post-marathon legs won’t thank you for unnecessary weight!)

Before we give you the essential checklist of what to pack, a couple of tips to help you stay organised…

TIP 1: DO IT THE NIGHT BEFORE

Lay out your kit the night before the event. You can also do prep work such as pinning your number (which contains your tracking chip) to your top. This will help you transition calmly into your event morning routine and avoid a last-minute scramble for your clothes.

TIP: Make sure to snap a photo of your ‘flat lay’ (event clothes and bib) and tag us @manchestermarathon or use #ManchesterMarathon on Saturday evening!

 

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TIP 2: GET INFORMATION ABOUT BAG DROP

To assist those unable to leave baggage at their accommodation or with friends and family, we will again be operating a bag drop for the 2025 adidas Manchester Marathon. It’s an updated process to previous years as we have introduced a point-to-point route – meaning that bags will now be transported from Old Trafford to an area close to the finish. Find out more about bag drop including what you can bring and other regulations here.

TIP: If you plan to use this service, we recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your designated Start Access time (please note this is earlier than your actual Start time).

YOUR MARATHON BAG CHECKLIST

Grab your notepad – below are the items you’ll want to pack in your marathon bag.

1. SPARE CLOTHES

After 26.2 miles, you’ll want to put on some dry, comfortable clothes (especially socks) and possibly another pair of shoes such as recovery sandals.

Consider that you may want to wear some of these items while travelling to the event, in which make sure these are easily accessible at the top of your bag. An old pair of tracksuit bottoms are always a favourite here – just make sure they fit in your bag!

TIP: Keep warm between Bag Drop and the Start Line by wearing an old jumper which you can donate to charity at the end of the start chute. Look for signs for the exact location of the donation bins on the day.

2. WATER AND NUTRITION

It’s crucial that you are hydrated before starting the event, so take some water to sip on the morning of the event. You may also choose to bring a small snack depending on what you’ve practised in your training – for example, some participants eat breakfast 2 hours before and then 45 minutes before the start they will eat a banana.

TIP: HIGH5 Aqua energy gels are available at drink stations 3, 5 and 7 to supplement your preferred nutrition sources. Don’t forget to plan ahead and pack your own preferred nutrition.

3. KEYS, CARD AND PORTABLE CHARGER

Don’t forget your keys and wallet in the excitement of packing your marathon bag. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger for your phone, especially if taking it out on the course with you.

TIP: If you’re taking part with your phone, close down apps or turn on battery saving mode so that it doesn’t run out of charge during the event.

4. MEDICAL ITEMS

If you have practiced in your event day footwear, it’s unlikely that you will get a blister. However, as it’s ‘better to be safe than sorry’, stick a few plasters or Compeed in your bag. You should also consider any other medical items you may need, such as inhalers or hayfever tablets.

5. PERSONAL CARE

Contrary to popular belief, the sun does shine in Manchester, so consider bringing (and applying) a small bottle of sunscreen with you. Other cosmetics you may want to bring are anti-chafing balms (or Vaseline), spare contact lenses (just in case…), sanitary products, tissues and – ladies, listen up – HAIR TIES!

TIP: Separate groups of items such as personal care and nutrition (snacks) into clear, separate bags. This will make them easier to find and avoid holding up Bag Drop queues on the day.

6. WATERPROOFS

Should inclement weather occur, it’s important to stay warm and dry before and after the event. Pack a light raincoat with a hood and – if the forecast looks particularly adverse – bring an umbrella!

TIP: Where possible, roll up items such as a light waterproof jacket, to save space in your bag.

 

That concludes the article – now, you’re all ready to pack your bag for the adidas Manchester Marathon and get ready for the event!