With its blend of physical challenges and natural beauty, trail running often draws runners away from the pavements and into the luscious forests, mountains and winding dirt paths. But unlike a jog around a local residential area, venturing into the wilderness requires a bit more preparation and care. 

Whether you're out for a short morning run or a full-day trek through rugged terrain, packing the right gear will be the difference between an energising adventure and a struggle to the finish. In this blog, we break down all the essential items every trail runner should carry so you can focus on your exercise with complete peace of mind.

Why is it important to pack well for a trail run?

Unlike road running, trail running terrain can be uneven and difficult to navigate, with everything from muddy puddles to rocky paths getting in your way. This means the chances of an injury or even getting lost can become higher. The uneven terrain can also offer more of a challenge, as you may find yourself using more energy to navigate these paths. 

This makes packing the right equipment essential for a successful and safe trail run. You’re unlikely to pass by shops or other comforts during a trail run, and so not packing enough water or snacks will leave you at risk of becoming dehydrated and fatigued. 

To make sure you’re packing the right things for both your safety and the success of your run, keep reading as we take you through everything you may need.

Key contents you need for a trail run

Before we get into the list of things you need, there are a few key factors you should always be aware of before a run. This will help you pack efficiently to ensure you have all the essentials and are ready for every situation.

When trail running, you’ll need to consider:

1. Hydration
2. Nutrition/energy
3. Comfort
4. Weather protection
5. How you carry your essentials
   

What to pack for a trail run

Even if you’re only planning a quick loop around the woodlands, venturing into nature requires careful preparation to ensure that you’re prepared for any surprises that may come your way. This can be anything from injuries to weather changes and even getting lost. To help avoid any mishaps and guarantee a comfortable run, below you can find our essential trail running packing list to check you have everything needed before you head out. 

1. A water bottle

Hydration is one of the most important factors to consider when it comes to trail running. Whether it’s a handheld bottle, hydration vest, or waist pack, staying hydrated is non-negotiable. We recommend always taking more water than you think you might need. It’s better to have too much than to run out and risk dehydration, especially in spring and summer!

We recommend a bottle that's lightweight and easy to pack, such as this Salomon Soft Flask. This bottle shrinks as you drink, making it ideal for terrain runs as it can easily slip into your vest or backpack. The extra grip cap means the flask is easy to use even when your hands are cold or sweaty, and so it’s ideal for outdoor running. 

These flasks are suitable for short runs as they hold up to 250ml. You can either carry a few of them if you’re planning to be out for 3 hours or more, or we recommend you plan your route around refill and resting stations, rather than trying to carry a lot of water, which may slow you down or affect the ease of your running.

Salomon 250ml Soft Flask - £13.90

2. Energy-boosting snacks

If you’re planning to be out for a while, then you’re going to need some nutrition to boost your energy. What’s best to take can vary from person to person. Some may prefer snack bars while running, while others prefer something quicker that requires less chewing, like energy gels, to help avoid stomach aches caused by eating while moving. 

For trail running, we recommend trying gels as they’re a much quicker way of giving yourself a boost without slowing you down. These Maurten Energy Gels, encapsulating 40 grams of carbohydrates in each serving, will keep you going for longer and are easy to consume, so you can stay focused on the trail ahead.

Maurten Energy Gel 160 (Box Of 10) - £40.90

 

Sometimes, for longer runs, the best thing is a delicious snack filled with electrolytes to keep you going. Salt Stick Fast Chews are a scientifically-derived, high-performance snack that provides a balanced supply of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium - perfect for giving you a well-needed uplift on long runs. 

These chews come with a wide range of benefits to help keep you going, from reducing muscle cramping and heat stress to increasing stamina for an efficient and successful run.

Salt Stick Fast Chews - £3.50

 

3. An emergency kit 

Any trail runner needs to be prepared for any situation that may arise, and having an emergency kit is another non-negotiable. Runners are often subject to blisters, chafing, twisted ankles and more. So, having a small first aid kit to treat these problems before they get worse will keep you feeling comfortable from start to finish.

Things such as the Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm are easy to slip into a small first aid kit. It’s made to effectively protect and heal your skin, making running easier so you can enjoy complete peace of mind. Don’t forget that it’s not just you that your first aid kit could end up helping, too.

Body Glide The Original Anti-Chafe Balm 22g - £11.90

 

4. Clothes

It’s always important to check the forecast before you head off on your run, however, weather can be unpredictable, and it’s good to have a few items to help combat the weather. Things such as jackets and gloves if you're running in cool weather and decide to stop for a break, or a reliable cap for summer, such as this Vaga Pacer Running Cap, to keep your eyes shaded when the sun comes out.

Runners can lose body heat quickly when they stop for a break or if an injury occurs, so having a few extra layers will help to combat any stops or weather changes for complete comfort.

Vaga Pacer Running Cap - £29.90

 

5. Navigation

This will depend on where you’re going, but if you’re running a new trail, then having some navigation will give you extra peace of mind. Getting lost can be easily done, so we recommend having a map, a compass or even a trusty GPS running watch. We recommend the Garmin Enduro 3 DLC Titanium GPS Watch, as it comes equipped with a built-in torch and comprehensive GPS tracking with round-trip routing, helping to keep you on the right path while you venture further into nature.

Garmin Enduro 3 DLC Titanium GPS Watch - £769.90

 

6. A backpack

You can’t carry all these essentials without a trusty trail running backpack. You’ll need a backpack that can fit everything in your packing list, as well as being lightweight, breathable, and that won’t get in your way while running.

The Salomon ADV Skin 5 Running Backpack, for example, is enhanced for stability, fit and versatility - ensuring that you have access to all of your hydration and nutrition while on the go. It uses stretchy, breathable fabrics and lightweight adjustments to optimise fit and stability. Topped off with easily adjustable straps and many pockets to keep your must-needed items close and accessible, this bag is great for trail runners.

Salomon ADV Skin 5 V2025 Set Running Backpack - £111.90

 

What shoes do I wear for trail running?

While not something you can necessarily pack, having the right shoes for trail running will make all the difference. They will help you navigate the uneven terrain with extra grip and will ensure comfort whether you’re keeping it short or going for your longest distance yet. 

These Brooks Cascadia 18 shoes are tailored for the trails, with sticky traction to help you run on difficult terrain, securing your stride without the worry of slipping. Complete with durable materials, and the Gore-Tex version even comes with waterproof features that make navigating through wet weather conditions a breeze. They provide premium comfort and ankle support that will protect you from uneven paths and rocky terrain.

Cascadia 18 GORE-TEX Mens Trail Running Shoes - £149.90	Brooks Cascadia 18 Womens Trail Running Shoes - £134.90

 

Discover more about trail running with Start Fitness

Trail running offers an incredible way to connect with nature, challenge your body, and explore new terrain - but preparation is key to making the most of the experience. By packing smart and tailoring your gear to the distance, weather, and trail conditions, you’ll stay safe, comfortable, and ready for whatever the trail throws your way.

If you’re looking for more help and guidance with your trail running journey, whether it’s finding a good pair of trail running shoes or a beginners guide on how to start trail running, here at Start Fitness, we have everything you need to help you hit the trails the right way.