The countdown has officially begun! In just 7 days, the 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will begin and with it, the runDisney race calendar 2017-2018! Runners from all over the globe will be flying in for the Pixar-themed race weekend. Is this your first runDisney race? First half marathon or 10K? Congratulations! Your training has paved the way for an exciting, fulfilling celebration. But what to pack!? 

According to the extended forecast, we’re looking at sunny, mid-80s (classic, southern California weather!). Shorts and t-shirts, right? But wait! You will be lining up in your corrals for a 5:00AM start! You may get chilled! Here’s my “don’t forget” list of items to keep in mind when you’re packing:

—

Will Run for Disney’s 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend
Race Packing List:

• • • Photo ID (you need this to board your plane anyway!)
    • Printed out, signed race waiver for an easier Expo experience
    • Race outfit: performance running bottoms, moisture wicking performance top, bra, underwear, non-cotton socks
    • Compression socks or sleeves (optional)
    • Race costume pieces (make sure they are airport/Disney costume compliant before you head on a plane! Yikes!)
    • Race running shoes (and have at least one separate pair just for walking around the parks!)
    • Trash bag or old heat sheet for warmth pre-race! OR
    • Old sweatshirt or sweatpants to wear pre-race; all clothing cast aside along the course will be donated
    • Hat
    • Sunglasses
    • Hair ties/extra hair ties for new friends made in your corral!
    • Other hair accessories: Bobby pins, headband, etc.
    • Runner’s fanny pack or belt
    • Extra safety pins
    • Headphones (but try not to miss the on-course entertainment!)
    • Sports watch/Garmin/Fitbit and CHARGER! (Plug in the night before to avoid a dead battery!)
    • Phone Charger (if you can wrap it up and take it with you, I highly recommend it!)
    • Deodorant
    • Body Glide (apply liberally before showing up pre-race)
    • Sunscreen (also apply liberally before showing up pre-race)
    • Favorite/go-to breakfast nutrition (favorite granola bar, bagel, peanut butter?)
    • Favorite race nutrition in a portable, zip-loc bag (candies, blocks or chews, goo) Sports Beans® jelly beans will be distributed around mile 10 of the half marathon
    • Favorite post-race nutrition or treat (scope out the nearest location that sells chocolate milk ahead of time!)
    • Water/water bottle (not really needed; there will be water stops with water and powerade along the courses)
    • Mini first-aid kit: band-aids, ibuprofen, tylenol, aleve, disinfectant, ice packs, tampons, maxi pads, aloe vera, icy hot
    • Sandals for post-race pool and hot tub time!
    • Other vacation essentials not mentioned here: park clothes, bathing suit, toiletries, ponchos/rain gear (haha, it’s California)

—
Most importantly: make sure you pack your race outfit and shoes in your carry-on JUST IN CASE! If your check bag is delayed, you will have to scramble to find a back-up race outfit/new or unfit shoes and that will make for a miserable experience.

And of course, always put out your flat runner the night before to avoid a stressful “morning” before you head out! Pin your bib right onto your shirt!

Happy packing!
-Gina / Will Run for Disney