Triathlon race day checklist

Worried you're going to forget something when heading to your next event? Download your essential, printable triathlon race-day checklist here...

Published: January 17, 2023 at 1:00 pm

You've trained for months, honed your nutrition plan and tapered like a pro. But when it comes to triathlon race day you've forgotten your goggles/timing chip/run shoes/bike (delete as appropriate). Admit it, we've all done it.

But help is at hand in the form of the 220 Triathlon race day kit checklist. Here to replace that post-it note covered in scribbles is a tick box list with everything you need.

Of course, what you need will vary depending on what type of race you've entered. For example, if your race includes a pool swim as opposed to an open-water swim, you can leave the wetsuit at home.

Alternatively, if you're racing an Ironman, you may want to swap out the tri-suit for separate kit to wear for each discipline.

That being said, this checklist will be suitable for the majority of athletes and races, and there's even space for you to add any extras you need to take with you.

Click below to download your essential triathlon kit list and new race-day best friend...

https://c02.purpledshub.com/uploads/sites/46/2017/11/6monthIronmanTrainingPlan-c7e13ae.pdf

Full triathlon race day checklist

If you'd rather just see the list on this page, scroll on down to see the full checklist:

Swim

  • Wetsuit
  • Goggles (tinted and clear for different light conditions)
  • Swim cap
  • Lube to stop chafing of wetsuit
  • Tri-suit
  • Heart rate monitor/watch if you're using one
  • Timing chip and strap

Bike

  • Bike
  • Helmet
  • Sunglasses
  • Bike shoes
  • Mini pump
  • Spare inner tubes
  • Bottle(s) pre-filled with your race drink
  • Jacket (optional dependent on weather and time of year racing)
  • Number belt if you're not using safety pins

Run

  • Run shoes
  • Cap and socks if you wear them
  • Jacket (optional, dependent on weather and time of year racing)

Other

  • Race registration paperwork and ID
  • Pre-race drinks or nutrition, pre-mixed and ready
  • Track pump to set tyre pressures
  • Allen keys and other tools to deal with last-minute bike adjustments
  • Safety pins for race number (if not using a belt)
  • Energy gels, bars or other nutrition for the bike/run
  • Warm clothing for post-race
  • Roll of duct tape and some cable ties (options for carrying nutrition0
  • A towel for transition
  • Post-race food
  • Money for day membership if you're not a member of British Triathlon
  • Bin liner to keep your pride and joy dry if racking up the day before a race
  • Toilet roll for pre-race portaloo nerves
  • Any medication (hay fever remedies, asthma inhalers and so on)

Top image credit: Alexander Scheuber/Getty Images