Plan a Marathon Abroad
Running a marathon is a monumental achievement, but taking it a step further and planning to run a marathon abroad can turn it into an unforgettable adventure. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to plan a marathon abroad, from choosing the right race to making the most of your trip.
Introduction
Running a marathon is an incredible challenge, but running a marathon abroad adds an extra layer of excitement and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-timer, planning a marathon abroad can be an amazing way to see the world, meet new people, and create lasting memories. In this post, we'll cover all the essential steps to help you plan your perfect destination marathon.
How to Pick the Right Marathon
Choosing the right marathon is the first step in planning your adventure. Think about the places you've always wanted to visit. Popular destinations for marathons include cities like New York, Tokyo, Paris, and Berlin. Each offers a unique experience, from historical landmarks to stunning scenery. You don’t need to limit yourself to these big international cities though, there are smaller towns all over the world that hold yearly marathon races that don’t command the headlines. These can be the best places to visit as you’re able to soak in the local culture more and feel part of the local community before, during, and after the race.
Next you need to research the typical weather conditions during the marathon. Running in extreme heat or cold can be challenging, so choose a climate that suits your training and racing preferences. A summer marathon in the UK could be a fantastic experience, yet a summer marathon in Las Vegas is destined to cripple you with the scorching heat. So choose wisely not only the location, but also the time of year you want to run.
Some locations are also much more affordable at certain times of the year and this should definitely play a factor in your decision if you’re budget conscious like I am. Take 2024 for example, there is an inaugural Las Vegas marathon occurring in November. If you’re coming from the UK like I am, you can get return flights for under £400 at this time of year, this just isn’t possible in the height of summer. So take these budgeting factors in mind when choosing which marathon you should pick.
Flights
Booking flights for your marathon trip is a crucial step. Here are some tips to make it easier:
Use flight comparison websites to find the best deals. Consider factors like layovers, travel time, and arrival times to ensure a smooth journey. Skyscanner is always my go to option to work out all my flight related details.
Flights can get expensive, especially to popular marathon destinations. Booking your flights early can save you money and ensure you get the best options. It’s virtually impossible to get cheap last minute plane deals, booking early is always your best bet.
Allow extra time in your schedule for potential flight delays. Arriving a few days before the marathon will give you time to recover from jet lag and acclimate to the new time zone. The last thing you want is to arrive the day before the race after a delayed flight and need to suddenly run a marathon the very next day with potential jet lag!
Hotel
Your choice of accommodation can significantly impact your marathon experience. Here's how to find the perfect place to stay:
Choose a hotel close to the marathon start line to minimize stress on race day. Being within walking distance can save you time and energy. The worst thing about marathons in my opinion is how early they start, getting a hotel close to the start line is crucial for me to save extra time and hassle on the morning of a race.
Look for hotels that offer comfortable beds, quiet rooms, and amenities like early breakfast options for runners. Some hotels even provide shuttle services to the start line. I tend to choose well known hotel chains, you know what you’re getting with them in terms of a clean and tidy room. When you get off your flight and want to get that instant hit of comfort, these chain hotels definitely offer that peace of mind.
Read reviews from other travellers and marathon runners. Their experiences can help you find a hotel that meets your needs. No matter the location, I always choose a hotel with at least 8/10 on Trip Advisor that has at least a few hundred reviews. This method hasn’t let me down yet!
Marathon/Race Entry
Securing your race entry is one of the most critical steps. Here's what to do:
Register for the marathon as soon as possible. Popular races can fill up quickly, and you don't want to miss out.
Be aware of the registration fees and any additional costs, such as charity fundraising requirements or membership fees for running clubs.
After registering, make sure you receive a confirmation email or letter. Keep this information handy for future reference.
Kit List
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful marathon abroad. Here's what you'll need:
Running Gear
Pack your running shoes, comfortable clothing, and any accessories you typically use, such as a hat, sunglasses, or hydration pack. My running belt is a necessity for me so that would always come along with me. I’d suggest its worth packing your running shoes in your hand luggage. It’s unlikely but should your Checked bags go missing, at least you’ve got your running trainers as this is the last thing you’d want to be buying new right before a race as they won’t be broken in. It’s always advisable to stick to what you’re used to on marathon day, so bringing your usual energy gels and nutrition supplies with you will help with that continuity come race day.
Race Day Essentials
Bring your race bib, timing chip, and any required identification. It's also a good idea to pack energy gels or snacks that you rely on during long runs. During large international marathon events you may have to register in person a day or two before the race to collect these items, bare that in mind when booking flights.
Travel Items
Don't forget essentials like your passport, travel documents, and any necessary visas. A small first aid kit and any medications you need are also important. It’s important to feel as comfortable as possible in the nights/days leading up to your marathon so don’t skimp on bringing those home comforts with you, especially if you’re bringing checked baggage.
How Long to Go For
Deciding how long to stay is crucial for making the most of your trip. Annual leave from work is a precious commodity so I try my best to be savvy when planning any trip. Marathons are almost always ran on a Sunday so what I recommend is a Thursday-Tuesday trip length. This gives you a couple of days before the marathon to recover from travel and adjust to the new environment. This time also allows you to explore the city and enjoy the sights.
Also, plan to stay a few days after the marathon to relax and recover. This is also a great time to enjoy more of what the destination has to offer. When you finish that race on Sunday, the last thing you want to be doing is having to pack your bags ready to fly home the next day when your body is no doubt going to be in agony! If you want to do a longer trip then go ahead, the longer the better. But I feel that a Thursday-Tuesday trip offers you a good amount of time to prepare for the race but also gives you enough free time either side to explore the destination you’re visiting and kill two birds with one stone.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for any international trip. Here’s what to look for:
Ensure your insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage. Some policies also cover marathon-specific risks, like injury during the race.
Shop around for the best travel insurance providers. Read reviews and compare policies to find one that meets your needs. Comparethemarket.com is a great place to compare travel insurance quotes if you’re from the UK.
Keep a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers with you at all times. This is especially important if you’re going to the US as if you get into any medical trouble its important to have your travel insurance information to hand.
Banking Abroad
Managing your money while abroad is crucial. Make sure you inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards while abroad. Research the local currency and exchange rates. It's a good idea to have some local cash on hand for small purchases. It’s also a good idea to check if your credit or debit cards will work at your destination, especially if you carry an American Express card. Finally, it’s worth signing up for a bank account with no foreign transaction fees. I signed up for a Starling bank account that I only ever use when I’m abroad, I can relax in the knowledge that I’m not going to be stung with foreign transaction fees when abroad and this allow me to spend at ease.
Hotel Transfers
Getting from the airport to your hotel can be challenging. Here's how to make it easier:
Pre-Book
Arrange airport transfers in advance to avoid long waits and high costs. Many hotels offer shuttle services, or you can book a private transfer.
Public Transport
Research public transportation options. Trains, buses, and taxis can be convenient and cost-effective ways to get to your hotel.
Ride-Sharing
Consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, which can be more flexible and affordable than traditional taxis.
Getting to the Start Line on Raceday
Race day logistics are crucial. Know the exact location of the start line and how to get there. Plan your route and timing to arrive with plenty of time to spare. You want to be as relaxed as possible on raceday so avoid any unnecessary stress by planning your route and getting there with plenty of time to spare. It’s worth checking if there are shuttle services or public transportation options specifically for marathon runners. Many major races offer special services to help runners get to the start line. Finally, have a backup plan in case of any transportation issues. Knowing alternative routes or having a ride-share app handy can save you stress on race day.
Making the Most of Your Trip
Running a marathon abroad is not just about the race. Here’s how to enjoy the entire experience:
Sightseeing
Take time to explore the local attractions. Visit museums, landmarks, and natural wonders to make the most of your trip. Whatever destination you choose, there is always going to be some amazing local attractions to visit where you can immerse yourself in the culture. This is the best part of planning a marathon abroad, it’s not just about the running, you get to have a holiday as well!
Check Out a Sports Game
You’re running a marathon, let’s face it, you like sport and competition. One thing I absolutely love to do when I go away on a trip is to attend a local sports game wherever I go. Whether it’s a football match in Vienna or a baseball game in Nashville, attending a sports game at your destination is a fantastic way to get a taste of the local culture and get that sporting fix. I was recently in Los Angeles as was able to attend an NFL game at the SoFi Stadium, it was such a great experience and I encourage anyone travelling to attend a local sports game.
NFL game at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
Local Cuisine
Try the local food and drink. This is a great way to experience the culture and celebrate your marathon accomplishment. Most cities in the world have incredible food options now, so be sure to check out as many as you can. Imagine finishing the race and having a specific restaurant in mind that you know you’re going to devour some amazing food at afterwards. That’s some serious motivation to hold on to when the running gets tough!
Relaxation
After the race, take time to relax. Visit a spa, take a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy some downtime at your hotel. Remember, this is a holiday as well as a marathon race, it’s important to take time for yourself to recharge your batteries after the race. You might not want to do too much after the race on the Sunday so fully enjoy that time to unwind in your hotel room that evening. This again goes back to why it’s vital to pick as luxurious a hotel room as you can afford, you want that comfort after a gruelling race.
Meet Likeminded People
Meeting other runners can enhance your marathon experience. Attend pre-race events, expos, and post-race celebrations. These are great opportunities to meet fellow runners and make new friends. Everyone you meet has their own journey and you all share one common interest, running. It’s such a great place to meet a group of people who share your interests and who you can have a deep meaningful chat with, especially if you’re somewhat of an introvert like me. At some of the more local races you have an intriguing story if you’re travelling from a long distance away so these events are great for chatting with the locals and getting accepted into a community.
Enjoy the Experience
Above all, remember to enjoy the experience. Running a marathon abroad is a unique adventure, so make the most of it:
Stay Positive
Focus on the positives and keep a positive mindset throughout your trip. Challenges will arise, but they’re part of the adventure. The pain is only temporary and just remember that in a few hours you’ll be all done, able to rest, knowing you achieved something monumental.
Take Photos
Document your journey with photos and videos. These memories will last a lifetime and can inspire others. Being able to look back at memories of a trip years down the line is such a nice thing to be able to do. Going on adventures like this are what you’ll ultimately remember in your old age, so give yourself the photos to look back on.
Reflect
Take time to reflect on your achievement. Running a marathon abroad is a significant accomplishment, so be proud of what you’ve done. You’ve not only had a holiday and seen a new part of the world and potentially met some amazing people, you’ve also grown as a person and achieved something quite special, be proud of it!
Conclusion
Planning a marathon abroad is an exciting and rewarding challenge. By carefully considering each aspect of your trip, from choosing the right marathon to enjoying the local culture, you can ensure a memorable and successful experience. Remember to plan your flights, accommodation, race entry, and all the other details well in advance. Enjoy the journey, meet new people, and make the most of this incredible adventure. Happy running!