What should you pack in your trail pack for a long outing?

08.04.2025
Equipement
Que mettre dans ton sac de trail pour une sortie longue ?

When you set off on a long-distance trail run, packing your bag properly is essential to guarantee comfort, safety and performance. Whether you're training in the mountains or taking part in an official race, the right equipment will help you avoid the unexpected and maximise your enjoyment of the trails. Here's a complete checklist to optimise the contents of your trail bag according to your needs.

The trail pack : a strategic choice

Your trail bag should be light, ergonomic and well-fitting. Choose a 5-12 litre pack, depending on the length of your outing. Models with several pockets and quick access to essentials are recommended.

Hydration: keeping up your performance

Hydration is a key to success in trail running. There are several solutions available to you:

  • Soft flasks(2 x 600 ml) : Practical and lightweight, they provide quick access to water.
  • Water bladder (1,2 à 2L) : ideal for long distances and keeping your hands free.
  • Electrolyte tablets to prevent dehydration and compensate for mineral losses.

Nutrition: fuel for your effort

Your pack must contain enough energy to avoid fatigue:

  • Energy bars and gels : easy to eat and digest.
  • Dried fruit and oilseeds : a natural source of carbohydrates and healthy fats.
  • Compotes in flasks : practical and easy to digest.
  • Salt and sugar : to prevent cramps and maintain a good electrolyte balance.

Compulsory and safety equipment

Depending on the terrain and the weather, here are the essentials to take with you:

  • Waterproof and breathable jacket: lightweight and compact, it protects you from the elements.
  • Survival blanket : Mandatory on most races, it helps to conserve heat in the event of a problem.
  • Whistle : often integrated into the pack, useful for signalling danger.
  • Headlamp and spare batteries : essential for night-time outings or unforeseen delays.
  • Mobile phone : with battery charged and location application activated.
  • GPS map or watch : according to your planned itinerary.

Appropriate clothing

To stay comfortable in all circumstances:

Optional but useful equipment

  • Trail poles : recommended for routes with steep gradients.
  • Anti-chafing cream : to avoid irritation over long distances.
  • Small first aid kit : dressings, elastic bandages, antiseptic, compresses.

Preparing your trail bag properly means anticipating your needs in terms of distance, altitude difference and weather conditions. A well-optimised pack means you can run with complete peace of mind and get the most out of your adventure in the great outdoors. Always adapt your equipment to your outing and test your gear in training to avoid unpleasant surprises on the run!

See our other articles:

How do you prepare your 12L bag for the UTMB®, Diagonale des Fous® or UT4M®?

How to prepare and organise your bag for the Marathon des Sables®?

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.