Kit and packing rehearsal
Test your shoes, socks and carry system together.
Pack in three groups
Put bib and timing requirements in race essentials. Put only permitted items in the drop bag. Put a charged phone or agreed offline meetup details in the finish plan.
Test with full pockets
Load the same number of items you expect to carry, then check whether they bounce or rub. Rehearse removing a wrapper without stopping and check how you’ll hold it until an official bin.
Separate travel from race gear
If travelling, keep irreplaceable race gear with you where possible. Check race rules before packing anything you plan to carry through security or onto the course.