The essential accessories to put in your running bag

When preparing your race bag for the UTMB, there are some essential accessories that you should not forget to put in it. Starting with all the compulsory survival and safety equipment, then some additional accessories that are very useful for a serene race.

Safety and survival equipment

The list of safety and survival equipment is dictated by the UTMB regulations. The absence of one of these essential elements can lead to your disqualification and prevent you from taking the start of the race on D-day. This list should therefore be taken very seriously and you should not skimp on this equipment which can save lives and spare worries and moments of anxiety for everyone. You will find a smartphone, a whistle, a survival blanket but also something to bandage and 2 lamps (like headlamps for example) to have light during the night and at dusk. 

Other accessories to bring

This list is not compulsory but it is strongly recommended by most of the participants and by the organisation of the UTMB. It is therefore wise to plan to put these items in your race bag on the day of the event:

• The smartphone that you have could be equipped with the Livetrail 4Runners application installed and set up: it allows live tracking of your position and facilitates rescue and alerting in the event of a major problem.
• You should also bring an external battery (power bank) for your phone. There are now very powerful and light batteries (often less than 200 grams and the best ones fit in the palm of your hand), giving a real advantage in terms of autonomy.
• Bring a change of warm clothing which is essential in case of cold and rainy weather or in case of injury. They are not negligible and should be included in any self-respecting trailer bag.
• Poles in case of rain or snow for your safety on greasy ground. If you choose to take poles, it is for the entire duration of the race. It is forbidden to start without poles and to pick them up along the way. There may be bans on the use of poles in certain sectors.
• Trail gloves are essential to protect your hands
• Vaseline or anti-heating cream to put on the parts that are subject to rubbing and that can be irritated during the hours of running.
• A pair of special trail sunglasses will also be important to take along
• A minimum sum of 20 € or more to cover the various unforeseen events.
• A reusable bowl and a personal cup of at least 15cl which is compulsory (cans or flasks with caps are not accepted).
• A GPS watch which can be useful to find your bearings and follow a trail.
• A knife or scissors to cut the adhesive band.
• A small sewing kit can be useful if you have an urgent repair to do.