Plenty of trail runners are happy enough either running local routes or pulling out the Ordnance Survey map and heading off on an all-day adventure. Others like to enter the many trail running events that are put on by a variety of companies throughout the UK and beyond. These events often have multiple distance routes, ranging from 10k up to 100miles. Some are self-navigated and self-supported, whilst others are well marshalled with a series of checkpoints where you can refuel. As part of your trail training programme, your ultra marathon kit list forms a key part of your prep.

Ultra Marathon Kit Checklist (Quick Summary)

Essential kit:

• Hydration (500ml+ minimum)
• Waterproof jacket + trousers
• GPS watch
• Headtorch
• Emergency kit (blanket, whistle, phone)

If you’re new to ultras, don’t overcomplicate it, start with the essentials and build from there.

The Right Kit for the Right Event

Personally, we enjoy a mixture of many different terrains and distances – local routes most weekends and evenings, an O/S adventure with a group of friends every few months and a couple of 50 mile ultra marathons a year.

What all of these have in common (especially the longer distances) is the requirement to have the correct ultra marathon kit for the run. Depending on the time of year, for organised events, this kit is usually mandatory and although non-mandatory for other runs, you should always ask yourself before setting off “if something went wrong, how long could I last for before I’m in serious trouble?”

Ultra Marathon Kit List (Full Breakdown)

Hydration & Nutrition

Staying fuelled and hydrated is one of the biggest factors in completing an ultra.

Essential items:

• Hydration vest or backpack
• Soft flasks or water bladder
• Energy gels, bars, or real food
• Electrolytes

If you’re running longer or more remote routes, it’s worth planning your hydration properly — especially in warmer conditions.

Clothing & Weather Protection

Conditions can change quickly on trails, especially in the UK, so having the right clothing is essential.

Essential items:

• Waterproof jacket (mandatory in most races)
• Waterproof trousers
• Hat, gloves, or buff
• Spare base layer

Even in summer, weather in the hills can turn quickly. Always be prepared for rain and cold.

Navigation & Safety

Even on marked routes, having backup navigation and safety kit is crucial.

Essential items:

• GPS running watch
• Map and compass
• Fully charged phone
• Whistle
• Emergency blanket

A reliable GPS watch can make a huge difference for navigation, especially on unfamiliar trails. You can see the full guide to choosing the right one here.

Night Running Kit

If your race or training run extends into the dark, you’ll need proper lighting.

Essential items:

• Headtorch
• Spare batteries or backup light

Even if you don’t plan to run at night, delays can happen, it’s always worth carrying a light.

Emergency & Mandatory Kit

Most ultramarathons require you to carry specific safety items.

Typical mandatory kit:

• First aid supplies (blister kit, plasters)
• Emergency food
• Survival bag or bivvy
• ID and emergency contact details

Always check the specific race requirements — mandatory kit lists can vary.

Optional but Useful Extras

These aren’t always essential, but can make a big difference over long distances.

• Trekking poles
• Sunglasses
• Anti-chafe products
• Spare socks

These small additions can improve comfort and prevent problems during long runs.

How Much do You Need to Carry?

Consider how far you will be travelling, how much of this kit you will need with you and how much can be picked up along route. When we do ultras, we often have friends that meet us out on the course with our head torch later in the day, more water or other items so that we don’t have to carry everything. You have to consider what you will need if you do get stuck though, or if you don’t have access to aid stations and support on route.

It’s important to bear in mind that you have to be able to run and carry the kit that you can pack so opt for lighter options that don’t weight as much or take up as much space. Make sure you test it out on a training run as well. Don’t use new kit that you have never worn or tested on the day.

Common Ultra Marathon Kit Mistakes

• Carrying too much weight
• Not testing the kit beforehand
• Wearing new gear on race day (consider things like chafing – not something you want to contend with when you get 20 miles into a 50-mile ultra.
• Underestimating weather conditions

Always test your kit in training, never on race day!!!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kit is mandatory for an ultramarathon?

Most ultramarathons require a minimum set of safety gear, often called “mandatory kit.” This usually includes a waterproof jacket, food, hydration, a headtorch, and emergency items like a whistle or survival blanket.

Requirements vary by race, so always check the official kit list before race day.

How much water should you carry in an ultra marathon?

This depends on distance, weather, and aid station availability. Most runners carry between 500ml and 2 litres of water.

For longer or more remote routes, carrying extra fluid is essential — especially in hot conditions or on technical terrain.

Do you need a GPS watch for an ultramarathon?

You don’t need one, but it’s extremely useful. A GPS watch helps with:

• Tracking distance and pace
• Monitoring elevation
• Navigating unfamiliar routes

If you’re unsure which one to choose, you can read my guide to best Garmin watches for trail running.

What is the most important piece of ultra-marathon kit?

There’s no single most important item, but hydration, appropriate clothing, and safety gear are critical.

If you had to prioritise:

1. Hydration
2. Weather protection
3. Navigation

Everything else supports those essentials.

How do you carry all your kit during an ultra?

Most runners use a hydration vest or running backpack, which allows you to carry water, food, and mandatory kit comfortably.

Fit is key! A poorly fitting vest can cause chafing and discomfort over long distances.

Should you test your ultra kit before race day?

Absolutely, never use new gear on race day.

You should test:

• Shoes
• Clothing
• Nutrition
• Hydration setup

If you’re still choosing footwear, check out my guide to best trail shoes to find something comfortable for longer distances.

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links which may provide a small commission to me at no cost to you. The products we recommend are either those that we’ve used or that our fellow runners have used.