The Traveling Runner's Guide: How to Survive (and Laugh Through) Your Whirlwind Race Trip

Hey fellow road warriors and finsh-line conquerors! If you're anything like me, the thrill of running in new states is worth every ounce of travel chaos. But let's be honest, hitting the road for back-to-back races can turn into a comedy of errors. From fast food follies to bed-sharing nightmares, here’s how to laugh through it all and make your trip a success!

The Essential Race Kit

Before you even think about hitting the highway, pack your race kit. Here’s what you absolutely can't leave behind:

Running Shoes: Your trusty pair, not the new ones you’re breaking in. Trust me, new shoes will give you blisters that’ll make you reconsider your life choices.

Race Outfits: Plural, because you’re running two races! Bring your lucky outfit and a backup. You never know when a surprise rainstorm or an enthusiastic fan with a water bottle might strike.

Hydration Pack: Because hydration stations can be hit or miss. Nothing worse than being the dehydrated runner scrounging for water like a desert wanderer. (For more on hydration options click here)

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Snacks: Think energy gels, protein bars, and maybe a banana or two. Gas station jerky might seem tempting, but it’s a salt bomb waiting to happen.

Foam Roller: Your legs will thank you. Seriously. You’ll look ridiculous rolling around in the hotel lobby, but your muscles won’t care.

Laundry Bag: For those post-race, sweat-soaked clothes. Keeping them separate from your clean clothes will save your nose and your sanity. And remember, the moment you get home, empty that suitcase! Nothing smells worse than a bag of week-old running gear.

 Road Trip Fuel: Fast Food Frenzy

Eating healthy on the road is like finding a unicorn. Embrace the reality and make the best of it:

Salad Kits: Surprisingly available at many gas stations. They’re the closest thing you’ll get to greens on the go. Although if you are like me I skip the veggies before race day! Who wants to hit up the porta-potty more then you have too!

Sandwich Fixings: Whole grain bread, lean meats, and veggies. Prepping your own sandwiches saves you from mystery meat subs.

Avoid the Grease: Your stomach will thank you during the race. Opt for grilled over fried; your intestines will sing your praises.

Hydrate: Drink water like it's your job. Coffee and energy drinks are great, but balance them with good ol’ H2O. Pro tip: Map out rest stops because all that hydration needs an outlet.

The Not-So-Comfy Bed

Sleeping in a different bed every night is part of the adventure:

Travel Pillow: A little comfort from home goes a long way. Plus, it’s great for those mid-drive naps.

Ear Plugs and Eye Mask: Block out the hotel noises and weird lights. Perfect for when your neighbor decides 2 AM is the ideal time to practice the trumpet. Or if your running partner snores like I do! Whoops!

Stretch Before Bed: Loosen those muscles to avoid waking up like a tin man. Nothing says “I’m ready to race” like creaking out of bed.

Post-Race Driving: The Real Challenge

You've crossed the finish line, but now you have to get back on the road:

Stretch, Stretch, Stretch: Before you even think about driving, stretch every muscle you can. Your legs will feel like cement, but do it anyway.

Compression Socks: Keep the blood flowing on those long drives. They’re like a gentle hug for your calves.

Frequent Stops: Every hour or so, get out and walk around. It’s either that or arriving at your destination looking like a question mark. It is also a great way to take some pictures and enjoy the new state you are in!

Music and Podcasts: Keep your mind occupied and alert. Bonus points for karaoke sessions. Nothing says “road trip” like belting out ‘80s hits at the top of your lungs.

 Document the Madness

Don’t forget your Race Journal! Here’s why:

Victory Documentation: Write about the triumphs, no matter how small. Even if it’s just “I didn’t trip over my own feet.” or "I didn't have to pee behind a tree!"

Funny Moments: Remember when you ordered “plain pasta” and got a heaping plate of buttery noodles? Or the time you accidentally ran through a wedding photo shoot? Or you read the best signs along the way! "Smile if you aren't wearing underwear!"

Lessons Learned: Every race teaches you something new. Capture it! Like, never trust a porta-potty after mile 20. Even better! I know no matter what happens I WILL CROSS THAT FINISH LINE! Because as my running buddy said, "We aren't traveling back to this state and doing it again!" LOL

 Traveling Nightmares: Expect the Unexpected

Traveling for races is an adventure, but it’s not without its challenges:

Flight Delays: Nothing like a delayed flight to test your patience. Always give yourself an extra buffer day before race day. Better safe than sprinting through an airport like a lunatic.

Bib Pickup: If the race offers mail-in bibs, pay the extra fee. It’s worth it to avoid the stress of late arrivals and long lines. Trust me, you don’t want to be that person begging at the registration tent. Especially for your second race! You never know about hold-ups!

Car Rental Issues: From unexpected fees to the wrong car size, rental issues are a real buzzkill. Double-check your reservation, and always have a backup plan.

Traffic Jams: A three-hour drive turning into six? It happens. Keep snacks and water in the car, and download some podcasts or audiobooks to keep you entertained. And remember, deep breaths; the road rage won’t help.

 Laugh It Off

When the going gets tough, the tough get laughing. Here are some scenarios to expect and enjoy:

The Midnight Fire Alarm: Every hotel stay has a surprise. Nothing like evacuating in your PJs to bond with fellow guests.

The GPS Detour: Why wouldn’t your GPS take you through the scenic route? At least you get to see more of the state, right?

The Pre-Race Nerves: Embrace the butterflies; they mean you’re alive and ready! Plus, nervous energy burns calories.

Remember, running in new states is about more than just the race. It’s about the journey, the sights, and the stories you’ll tell. So pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and hit the road with a smile (and maybe a grimace or two). You’ve got this! I know you have a running story! Please share! The funnier the better!

Happy running, my fellow state-hopping racers! 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️