Packing for Ragnar DC in 10 easy steps

I’m not going to give you a packing list.  Honestly, I’d just be repeating all the awesome lists I pulled together in my Ragnar roundup.  Instead, I’m giving you my packing process in steps.  (I did take the standard packing list and the lists on the blogs and create a spreadsheet, so if you want the spreadsheet, email me at mcmmamaruns at gmail.com)

Wait!  Before you start packing, get a manicure with your teammates…

OK, that’s done, now you can pack…

Step 1. Lay everything out on your bed to by outfit and category.

Step 2. Realize that you are missing something you want to run in and quickly throw in a load of laundry.

Step 3.  Check outfits against spreadsheet and then pack each outfit into its own plastic bag, including underwear and items for potential weather variables. (Note that I included everything from underwear to hats in each bag, as well as giving myself a hot weather option for my first run and arm sleeves for my night run.  Also note that you should buy name brand plastic bags…)

Step 4. Put 1 or 2 pairs of running shoes in bottom of bag.

Step 5. Second guess your between run clothes. Throw in another load of laundry because your comfiest shorts are dirty.

Step 6. Pack non-running clothes in 1 or 2 plastic bags. (It’s going to be warm during the day and chilly during the night, so I have options. Note that in a pinch I could run an extra leg in the shorts and t-shirt or have long sleeves for my night run.  It’s all about options.)

Step 7. Pack toiletries.  And toilet paper.  Don’t forget the toilet paper.  Don’t forget the baby wipes. Or the deodorant. (I think I may split this into a couple of bags and put them all in a string bag for ease of finding stuff.)

Step 8. Pack nighttime gear in its own plastic bag. (Not sure if I’m taking the jacket or not…)

Step 9.  Pack nutrition: hydration + on the run fuel + in between run snacks in another bag. (Friday morning I’ll add some apples, cheese sticks, and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.)

Step 10.  Put everything in duffel bag and release a huge sigh of relief when it all fits.

And, of course, the most important things:  money, Garmin, water bottle, chargers, etc. in an easily accessible bag.

There you go!  All packed!  Now it’s time to tie up all the loose ends at home, decorate the van, and get 2 nights of good sleep!  Woot!  Woot!

For an Overpacker’s Guide to Ragnar, check out my friend Deborah on Confessions of a Mother Runner. Coco, on the other hand, is over at Running with Perserverance talking about food for Ragnar! My favorite topic!