What to Carry on a Trail Run (and How to Carry It)

Trail runs take you further from help than a loop around the block, so a few essentials are worth their weight. The trick is carrying them without anything bouncing or rubbing.

The essentials

• Phone: for maps, photos and emergencies
• Keys and ID: small, but easy to lose
• Water: for anything longer than about an hour, or on hot days
• A light: if there is any chance you finish after dark
• Sun protection: sunglasses and sunscreen for exposed trails

Belt, waist bag or vest?

Slim running belts sit flat on your hips and are ideal for a phone, keys and a gel on shorter runs. Waist bags hold a bit more and are handy on hikes and travel days too. Running vests make sense for long runs where you need several bottles and extra layers.

Tips to stop the bounce

• Wear the belt snug on your hips, not your waist
• Put the heaviest item, usually your phone, in the center
• Use separate pockets so keys do not scratch your screen

Our Ultra-Slim Running Belt has two compartments, a headphone port and an adjustable buckle. See everything for runners in our Running Gear collection.