How To Plan A Runcation

A runcation is combining a running event with a vacation. It’s a trip where your race day is the main focus, but you also enjoy sightseeing, local food, and relaxation. Whether you’re training for a 5K, a marathon, or anything in between, a runcation blends fitness with travel. Here’s how to plan it:

• Choose the Right Race Location: Pick a race that matches your fitness level and travel interests. Popular options include the Boston Marathon (April), the Honolulu Marathon (December), and the Big Sur Marathon (April).
• Book Travel and Stay Nearby: Arrive 3–5 days early to adjust to the location. Stay close to the race venue for convenience, and look for hotels with runner-friendly amenities like early breakfasts or gyms.
• Prepare for Race Day: Pack essentials like your race gear, nutrition, and weather protection. Study the course map to plan your pace and avoid surprises.
• Recover and Explore Post-Race: Focus on light activities like walking, stretching, or sightseeing. Balance rest with enjoying local attractions.

Quick Comparison: Popular Race Destinations

Tip: Pack your race-day gear in your carry-on to avoid issues with lost luggage.
A runcation is the perfect way to stay active while enjoying a memorable vacation.

Pre Race Routine & Tips for 24 Hours Before a Race

Selecting Your Race Location

Picking the right race location is all about balancing your fitness goals with your travel interests. The aim is to choose an event that fits your training level and doubles as a great getaway.

Finding Running Events

Race directories are a great starting point. They offer calendars packed with events across the U.S. and internationally. These platforms detail course layouts, weather forecasts, participant reviews, registration deadlines, and qualification criteria. Comparing these factors can help you zero in on the race that suits your preferences and training plan.

Aligning Race Goals with Travel Plans

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) marathons often feature cooler temperatures but require planning ahead. Smaller, local races may offer more flexibility with registration and lodging. Be sure to match the course terrain to your training. For example, if you’re used to flat routes, a hilly course might throw you off. The Chicago Marathon in October is a great pick for those seeking a flat course with cool running weather.

Popular Race Destinations

Here are some standout race locations to consider:

When choosing a destination, look into the race’s history and read reviews from past participants. Well-established events with organized expos, clear communication, and strong local support can enhance both your race and vacation experience.

Once you’ve picked your race, it’s time to lock in your travel and lodging plans.

Booking Travel and Hotels

Planning your travel and accommodations carefully can make or break your runcation. The right choices will not only help you perform better on race day but also enhance your overall vacation.

Travel Arrangements

Book your flights about 3–4 months ahead to lock in good prices and convenient schedules. Steer clear of tight layovers or overnight flights that can leave you drained. Look into ground transportation options before your trip – many races provide shuttle services. If you’re renting a car, make sure there’s parking available both at your lodging and near the race venue.

Once your travel is sorted, focus on finding a place to stay that supports your race-day needs and recovery.

Where to Stay

Pick accommodations that are close to the race start and offer amenities that cater to runners. Staying nearby reduces stress on race day, and some hotels even provide marathon discounts or early breakfast options tailored for runners.

If you’re staying longer or traveling with family, resort condominiums can be a great option. They often provide extra space and kitchens, making meal prep easier. Complete Travel offers access to various resort condominiums in popular race destinations:

These types of accommodations can make your trip more comfortable, with perks like in-room refrigerators for storing race-day snacks and on-site gyms for light workouts.

Pre-Race Arrival Time

Plan to arrive at least three days early for domestic races. For international races or events in different time zones, aim for 4–5 days in advance. This extra time helps you adjust to the local time, recover from travel fatigue, and get familiar with the race location. As a rule of thumb, add an extra day for every time zone you cross to ensure you’re well-rested and ready.

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Race Day Planning

Once your travel and accommodations are set, it’s time to focus on getting the most out of race day. Staying prepared while traveling takes planning and attention to detail. Managing your training, packing smartly, and understanding the course can make a big difference in your performance.

Training While Traveling

Keep up your fitness routine by staying at accommodations with fitness facilities. Many resorts, like those offered through Complete Travel, often include gyms to help you stay on track.

Here’s a suggested training plan for the days leading up to your race:

Stay hydrated by drinking 64–80 oz of water daily, especially if you’re adjusting to a new climate. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep each night to fight off travel fatigue and keep your energy levels steady.

Next up: packing your essentials.

What to Pack

Organize your race gear into categories to ensure you have everything you need:

Pack your race-day outfit in your carry-on to avoid any issues with lost luggage. Go over your packing list at least two days before you leave, so you have time to grab any last-minute items.

Course Preview

Studying the course ahead of time is just as important as your training and packing. Review the official course map to plan your pace and avoid surprises. Take note of key details like aid station locations, elevation shifts, terrain, and landmarks.

If possible, drive or walk parts of the course a couple of days before the race. Pay special attention to the first mile and the final stretch, as these sections can be the most challenging. Make mental notes about where you might need to adjust your pace based on the course layout.

After the Race

After crossing the finish line, it’s time to shift gears toward recovery and enjoying lighter activities.

Recovery Activities

Taking care of your body after the race sets the tone for the rest of your trip. In the first 48 hours, stick to gentle activities to help your muscles recover:

Many resorts are perfect for post-race recovery. For instance, Woodstone at Massanutten Resort in Virginia offers stunning mountain views and outdoor options, while Vacation Village at Weston in Florida provides luxurious spaces to relax and recharge.

Once you feel rested, ease into exploring the local area.

Local Activities

Opt for activities that are easy on the body but still let you enjoy the surroundings:

Strike a balance between taking in the sights and giving yourself time to rest.

Rest and Activity Schedule

Here’s a simple plan to alternate recovery and exploration:

For a peaceful setting, Sedona Pines Resort in Arizona offers breathtaking red rock scenery, perfect for recovery walks.

Conclusion: Planning Your Runcation

Planning a runcation successfully combines race preparation with vacation fun. Here’s a quick summary of the key stages to keep in mind:

Picking the right place to stay can make your trip even better. Complete Travel offers luxury resort condos at discounted rates, with some listings even waiving fees for specific years (e.g., 2025).

For a smoother experience, choose accommodations that cater to a runner’s needs, such as:

Through Complete Travel Club, you can save up to 70% on hotel stays compared to standard booking sites. This makes luxury stays more accessible, especially for longer trips around major races.

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