Top 5 Essential Items to Prepare for Your First Half Marathon

So, you’ve signed up for your first half marathon—congrats! 🎉 Whether you’re running to challenge yourself, raise money for a cause, or just have fun, crossing that finish line is going to be an unforgettable experience. But before race day arrives, there are a few essentials you'll want to have to make your training and race day go as smoothly as possible.

Here are the top 5 items every first-time half marathoner needs to prep like a pro!

Let’s dive in!

1. Hydration Pack

Staying hydrated during your long runs is crucial, especially during a half marathon. Having easy access to water (without constantly stopping) can make all the difference. The UTOBEST Running Vest Hydration Pack (5L) is a perfect solution. It comes with a 1.5L hydration bladder, meaning you’ll have plenty of water to keep you going. Plus, it’s lightweight and functional, so you can store other essentials like gels, keys, or your phone without adding extra bulk.

Pro tip: Practice wearing the hydration pack during your training runs so you're comfortable with it on race day!

2. Electrolyte Tablets

You’re going to sweat—A LOT. And when you sweat, you lose vital electrolytes that help keep your body balanced and energized. Enter the HIGH5 ZERO Electrolyte Tablets. These little powerhouses not only hydrate you but also boost performance, thanks to added Vitamin C. They’re sugar-free, zero-calorie, and the tropical flavour tastes amazing, too! Pop one into your water before a long run to keep those electrolyte levels up.

Pro tip: Experiment with your hydration and nutrition strategies during training so you know what works best for you on race day!

3. Wireless Earbuds

Music or podcasts can be a game-changer for long runs. The Jesebang Wireless Earbuds are a must-have for any half marathon runner. These Bluetooth 5.3 earbuds provide top-notch sound quality, are designed to stay secure in your ears, and have a long battery life (up to 40 hours!). Plus, the ear hooks make them perfect for running—they won’t budge even when you’re hitting your fastest pace.

Pro tip: Create an epic running playlist or download an inspiring podcast series to keep you motivated during those longer training runs.

4. Polarized Sports Sunglasses

Running in the sun? Keep your eyes protected and reduce glare with a good pair of polarized sunglasses. The BEACOOL Polarized Sports Sunglasses are not only affordable but offer full UV400 protection. They’re lightweight and comfortable, which is key for long-distance running. These sunglasses are also versatile, making them great for other outdoor sports like cycling or fishing, too!

Pro tip: Choose sunglasses with polarized lenses to cut down on glare from the road or nearby water.

5. Running Armband

Keeping your phone handy (but out of the way) is a must when running a half marathon. You’ll need it for tracking your progress, playing music, or staying connected in case of emergencies. The HAISSKY Running Armband is perfect for holding your phone securely while you're on the move. It has extra pockets for your keys or cards, and it fits most phones up to 6.9 inches, including iPhone 15 Pro Max and similar models.

Pro tip: Make sure to practice using your armband during training to avoid any awkward fumbling on race day!

Preparing for your first half marathon is all about finding the gear that works best for you. With these 5 essentials, you’ll be setting yourself up for success, from training runs to race day. Each item can help make your experience more comfortable, enjoyable, and efficient.

Happy running, and I’ll see you at the finish line! 🏅

Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.