My Minimalist Travel Running Gear: Your Essential Guide

If you’re someone who runs to stay grounded while travelling—or to move your body and clear your head—I get it. I do the same. Running isn’t something I press pause on when I travel. It’s become one of the most meaningful ways I experience the places I visit.

Since Sandra and I started travelling full-time in 2016, we’ve explored over 50 countries across five continents. From the misty highlands of Guatemala to the fjords of Iceland and the souks of Morocco, running has become part of our daily rhythm—something consistent in a life that’s constantly changing.

But for running to fit seamlessly into a minimalist, travel-focused lifestyle, your gear needs to earn its place. Everything I pack is tested, refined, and often worn daily. This guide shares the running gear I carry—and why each item matters.

Running = Exploring

I don’t run to get away from my destination—I run to see it better. Heading out just before sunrise, I often catch places at their most honest. In Mexico, I’ve passed schoolchildren brushing dust from their uniforms and stallholders arranging fruit before the heat sets in. In Indonesia, I’ve run past temples wrapped in incense smoke. In Portugal, I’ve followed coastal tracks with no one but early fishermen for company.

Running gives me a front-row seat to local life—before the traffic, the tours, or the noise of the day begins. It’s also one of the simplest, most rewarding forms of exploration. You see more, cover more ground, and find moments that walking tours or guidebooks will never mention.

But to enjoy this running, you need gear that helps, not hinders. It has to be breathable, packable, fast-drying, and comfortable—even when you’re washing it in a sink or wearing it on back-to-back days. The right gear makes running while travelling not just possible, but pleasurable.

And that’s precisely what the rest of this guide is about.

What to Consider When Buying Running Clothes, Shoes, and Gear

Selecting the right running gear, particularly when travelling, goes beyond personal comfort. It directly influences my physical and mental well-being, travel experience, and even my environmental footprint. After more than eight years of full-time travel and daily running, I’ve refined my gear list down to essentials. Here’s what I’ve learned, as well as expert insights from reputable sources:

Prioritise Comfort and Functionality

If your running clothes aren’t comfortable, you’ll feel it every step, especially when you’re far from home and can’t easily swap them out. I run early most mornings, just before sunrise, and I’ve come to value gear that moves with me and keeps me dry. Look for pieces with flat seams and a snug (but not tight) fit—they help prevent chafing and make longer runs much more enjoyable. Moisture-wicking fabrics and breathability aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re non-negotiable. Runner’s World backs this up, highlighting both features as key for functional, high-performing running gear (source).

Material Matters

Material choice has a significant impact on your environmental footprint, gear durability, and running comfort. My preferred materials—Tencel, bamboo, and merino wool—strike a balance between breathability, durability, and sustainability. According to REI‘s expert guidance, these materials are excellent for temperature regulation, odour control, and sustainability. However, practicality sometimes necessitates compromise, and it’s crucial to use what you already own effectively rather than replacing it prematurely. Don’t just rely on FOMO. Use what is in the closet first. It may be old and not the most sustainable item on the market, but you now own it.

The fabric your gear is made from can make or break your run, especially when you’re travelling. The right material keeps you comfortable across climates, dries quickly after a sink wash, and holds up over months (or years) of regular use. My go-tos are TENCEL™, bamboo, and merino wool—all breathable, naturally odour-resistant, and better for the planet. REI backs this up, noting these materials excel in temperature regulation and sustainability. That said, being intentional with your choices doesn’t mean rushing out to replace everything. Start with what you already own. Just because it’s not perfect doesn’t mean it’s not good enough—using gear to the end of its life is one of the most sustainable decisions you can make.

Minimalist Footwear Pros and Cons

Minimalist shoes are perfect for travelling runners—they’re lightweight, easy to pack, quick to clean, and incredibly durable, often lasting me more than 2,000 kilometres. They also dry faster, thanks to thinner, high-performance materials. However, minimalist shoes aren’t suitable for everyone, particularly runners who need additional support or cushioning due to their running style or injury history. As Harvard Health notes, transitioning to minimalist shoes requires care and adaptation.

Cultural Sensitivity

Depending on your travel destinations, the appropriateness of your running attire can vary greatly. In some countries, wearing sleeveless tops or shorts may attract unwanted attention. I occasionally choose to sacrifice comfort in hot climates by opting for a lightweight t-shirt over a singlet to respect local customs. Outside Magazine offers additional insights into the cultural impacts of running attire.

Sustainability and Durability

Gear longevity is crucial. Items I’ve owned for over eight years still function, even if the materials or brands (such as Nike) no longer align with my current sustainability values. Patagonia’s philosophy of repair, reuse, and recycling resonates deeply—using gear until it genuinely needs replacing is far more sustainable.

Planning for Replacement

Travel makes receiving new gear challenging, so careful planning is essential. I map out gear replacement well in advance, typically achieving exactly what I need about 80% of the time.

Responsible Disposal

When gear inevitably reaches the end of its useful life for me, I prefer to donate it locally (except items like socks or underwear, for hygiene reasons). This practice supports local communities and reduces waste, aligning with a responsible and minimalist travel ethic.

Incorporating these considerations will enhance your running experiences, help maintain your physical and mental well-being on the road, and ensure your gear choices have a positive impact on both local communities and the environment.

What Fabrics to Consider for Which Qualities

When travelling and running day in, day out, the materials in your gear become your best allies. Here’s a deeper look into the fabrics used in your kit—and why they matter—supported by expert evidence.

Why These Materials Might Work for You Too

After years of running while living out of a travel pack, I’ve learned that the right fabrics make all the difference. Not just in comfort, but in how easy life on the road becomes. If you’re travelling light and want your gear to work as hard as you do, here’s why these materials are worth considering:

• Merino wool is hands down my go-to choice for headwear and gloves. It keeps me warm when it’s cold, doesn’t stink after use (huge bonus when doing handwashing in short-term rental sinks), and it lasts. I’ve had some pieces for years.
• Lyocell (TENCEL™) is incredibly soft and gentle on the skin, making it ideal for high-sweat areas like singlets. It’s breathable, sustainable, and doesn’t cling when you’re running in the heat.
• Nylon and polyester blends are what make my reflective gear from Proviz lightweight, breathable, and visible in low-light conditions. Great for early morning runs when you’re sharing roads with traffic.
• Spandex (or elastane) is that little bit of magic that makes everything stretch and fit just right. It helps your clothes move with you and bounce back into shape, even after dozens of washes on the road.
• BareFoam EVA, used in my Xero HFS II shoes, provides just enough protection underfoot without compromising the barefoot feel. They’re flexible, durable, and weigh next to nothing—perfect for travel. The mesh uppers on running shoes might sound boring, but they’re a traveller’s dream: super breathable, fast-drying, and easy to clean. Whether I’ve been caught in tropical rain or kicked up dust on a desert trail, I can rinse them out and they’re dry by morning.

Shoes

Without proper running shoes, you can’t run. Simple, right? Unless you are a barefoot runner.

So, always keep your shoes in your carry-on luggage. Don’t ever think about checking them in. Trust me on this one: I once travelled halfway around the world for a half-marathon, but I almost did not start the race, thanks to a luggage delay.

I only own one pair of running shoes at a time. Since I use the Strava app, I can keep track of the kilometres I run in them. And given that I wear and recommend Xero Shoes HFS II and have accurate data from Strava over the past ten years, I know I don’t need to replace them until well after I’ve run 2,500 kilometres. It is a far cry from the recommended 600 – 800 kilometres that the big brand shoe companies recommend. Since I run about 75 kilometres a week, I replace my running shoes every eight months.

My two main disadvantages with only owning one pair of running shoes at a time are:

• They get smelly quicker as I’m always wearing the same pair.
• I may wear them wet the next day when it rains, as they don’t always dry overnight, especially during the colder months.

So, if you don’t live out of a travel pack as I do, consider taking two pairs of shoes.

What to look for

Size – Make sure there is a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe (which isn’t always the big toe) and the tip of the shoe.
Width – Your foot should be able to move side-to-side in the shoe’s forefoot without crossing over the edge of the insole.
Fit – The shoe’s upper should feel snug and secure around your instep. Your heel should feel snug but not too tight.
Flex – The shoe should bend and crease along the same line as your foot’s flex. To ensure they feel comfortable, run or walk in them.

I acknowledge that running shoes are a personal choice because everyone is different. Before 2019, I was brand-loyal to one of the big brands. However, with ethical and sustainable practices now influencing my purchasing decisions, I started researching alternative brands to replace my big-brand running shoes.

Recommendation

The Xero Shoes HFS II Lightweight Road Running Shoe is the best minimalist running shoe in 2025 for someone who travels like I do, prefers zero-drop shoes, has a similar style and gait, and trains for half–marathons or longer distances.

So, why did I choose Xero Shoes HFS II over the others? Even though I run the occasional trail, I still want road running shoes, so several were off my shortlist. If I had two pairs of running shoes, I would consider having one for road running and one for trail running.

Socks

Socks can make or break a run, so don’t buy great shoes and skimp on socks.

What to look for

• Either synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, as they’re both sweat-wicking, breathable, and more durable than cotton or go with Merino or Alpaca Wool or a combination
• Seamless –  to reduce the chance of rubbing or chafing.
• Thickness – Make sure you try on the socks with the shoes you plan to wear.
• Compression – Does it provide help or restrict the blood flow?  Is there compression or support for the arch and in-step?
• Left and right-designed socks for a better anatomical fit
• Reinforced heel and toe area for durability and protection.

Recommendation

Depending on which continent I’m on when I need to purchase socks, I recommend the Fox River Arid Lightweight Ankle Running Sock in the USA and the Rockay Accelerate Performance Socks in Europe. Both are comfortable and have a snug fit. They have just the right amount of cushioning and contoured arch support.

Shoe bag

When I travel frequently, my one pair of running shoes gets smelly as I wear them day after day. I store them in a bag that separates them from the other items in my travel pack. Organising and compartmentalising your shoes away from the rest of your gear is essential.

What to look for

• Lightweight material
• Durable
• The correct size (not too small that you have to squash your shoes in, not too large that the excess material gets in the way
• Sustainable fabrics

Recommendation

A recent addition to my packing list is the Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube, which acts as my shoe bag.

Underwear

Underwear might not be the most glamorous piece of running gear, but it’s arguably the most important. It’s the first line of defence against chafing and discomfort, especially when you’re running in hot, humid conditions or covering longer distances with a minimalist setup.

After plenty of trial and error, I’ve found a clear winner for both travel and trails: T8 Commandos Running Underwear.

What to Look For in Running Underwear

• Targeted Compression – If you’re prone to chafing between your thighs (even without much body fat), look for boxer-style underwear that offers light compression and stays in place firmly.
• Quick-drying and breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics are a must to reduce sweat buildup and irritation on the go.
• Minimal Seams – Fewer seams = less friction. Seamless or flatlock designs are far more comfortable over long distances.
• Packability – When you travel light, every item matters. Prioritise underwear that washes and dries easily overnight.
• Ethical + Sustainable Materials – Look for options made with low-impact fabrics and responsible production methods.

Recommendation

These days, I run exclusively in T8 Commandos, paired with my Janji AFO Middle Shorts (5″). The Commandos provide the thigh coverage and mild compression I need to prevent chafing, without the bulk or heat of built-in compression liners.

They’re incredibly lightweight, breathable, and dry so fast that I can rinse them in the evening and have them ready by morning. With a secure fit that doesn’t ride up or bunch, they’re so comfortable I forget I’m even wearing them, which is exactly how good gear should feel.

Designed by ultrarunners in Hong Kong, T8 Commandos are ultralight, supercool, and built to be chafe-free — perfect for trails, roads, and travel alike. For those who want the full details, I recommend checking out T8’s official product page — they explain the technical specs much better than I could here. In short, the Commandos earn their place in my one-bag setup: performance-focused, travel-friendly, and made by a brand that values quality over excess.

Shorts

When you travel with only one pair of running shorts like I do, they need to earn their place in your travel pack. Whether you’re pounding pavement in a foreign city or hitting a remote trail, the right shorts should offer a perfect balance of performance, comfort, and packability — all without compromising on your values.

Here’s what I look for

Lightweight and Quick-Drying: Bulk slows you down in your pack and on the move. Shorts made from ultralight, breathable fabrics that dry quickly after washing (or a sweaty run) are essential.

Ethical and Sustainable Materials: Running gear should not come at the cost of the planet. Look for brands that prioritise fair labour practices and low-impact materials. Bluesign®, recycled fibres, and climate-neutral production are all good signs.

Freedom of Movement: A gusseted crotch and smart tailoring make all the difference on longer runs or climbs. I avoid shorts with excessive seams or built-in compression inners that chafe or retain moisture.

Modularity: Instead of traditional 2-in-1 shorts, I now prefer pairing high-quality running underwear with an outer shell. This approach makes washing and drying faster and more hygienic, especially when you’re travelling light.

What I Use and Recommend

Since switching from the Ronhill Twin Shorts, I now run in just one pair of Janji Men’s AFO Middle Shorts (5″), with T8 Commandos underneath — and it’s a combination that’s proven ideal for my minimalist travel lifestyle.

The Janji shorts are everything I look for: light, breathable, and designed with movement in mind. There’s no built-in compression layer, which I prefer — it makes washing and drying easier, especially when you’re on the road with limited gear. The gusseted design provides excellent freedom of movement, and the streamlined fit doesn’t flap or bunch up, even on long runs.

What sold me on Janji, though, is their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. From responsible sourcing to climate-neutral goals, it’s reassuring to support a brand that aligns with my values. These shorts are made to last, and they perform just as well on remote trails as they do in city parks.

Tights

I have a confession to make. In the late 70s and 80s, when the sports industry hadn’t caught up with the needs of the runners, I wore women’s pantyhose and, more specifically, my mother’s old pairs when the weather was so cold, but I still needed to go out training. Luckily for my mother and me, running tights, even for rugby players, are accepted nowadays. My standard rule is that I wear my tights if it is less than five degrees Celsius / 41 degrees Fahrenheit.

What to look for

• Provide warmth in winter
• Muscle compression qualities
• Reflective stripes (assuming you are running in winter and possibly in the dark)
• Fabric that stretches with your stride
• Convenient zippered pocket(s) big enough to hold your smartphone, card/s, or cash.

Recommendation

I recommend the Patagonia Men’s Peak Mission Tights.

Short-Sleeved Shirt

A good short-sleeved running shirt needs to do more than just wick sweat, especially when it’s your only one on the road. It should keep you cool, stay comfortable over long distances, and ideally help keep you visible when running in low light or unfamiliar places.

What to Look For in a Running Shirt

• Moisture Management – Breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics help regulate body temperature and prevent that sticky, post-run discomfort.
• Comfort and Cut – Look for a soft, tag-free design with flat seams to reduce irritation. A slightly looser fit can help airflow in warmer climates.
• Reflective Elements – Essential for early morning or evening runs. Subtle but effective reflectivity enhances safety without overstyling.
• Quick-drying + Travel-friendly – Your shirt should dry quickly after a sink wash and be light enough to pack with ease.
• Ethical Production – Choose shirts made with sustainable materials and a transparent supply chain. Performance shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense.

Recommendation

I now run in just one shirt: the Proviz REFLECT360 Men’s Short Sleeve Top. It’s lightweight, highly breathable, and one of the most reflective tops on the market — ideal when you’re running in low-light conditions or unfamiliar areas with traffic.

The standout feature is its all-over reflective design. During the day, it looks like a regular running top, but at night, it lights up when caught by headlights or streetlamps. Despite the high visibility, it’s surprisingly soft and breathable, with a relaxed fit that works well in both warm and humid conditions.

It’s not made from recycled materials (yet), but Proviz does prioritise ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility across its range. And in the context of minimalist travel, the versatility and visibility of this shirt give it a solid edge.

It’s become my go-to — not flashy, just functional, and ideally suited to the demands of slow, intentional travel.

Singlet / Vest

In England, they are called vests; in New Zealand and Australia, they are called singlets. Whatever the name, this piece of kit is my go-to for running in hot, humid conditions. I only carry one, so it needs to be lightweight, breathable, and ethically made, without compromising on comfort or performance.

What to Look Out For

In addition to breathability and comfort, here’s what matters when choosing a running singlet:

• Fit – A good singlet should be snug but not tight, allowing airflow across the chest and shoulders while keeping the straps secure and chafe-free.
• Sustainability – Prioritise materials and brands that minimise environmental impact through the use of recycled fibres and responsible manufacturing practices.
• Visibility – If you run early or late, reflective detailing can make a big difference in staying safe near roads or in low-light environments.

Recommendation

I now run in the Proviz Classic Men’s Running Singlet, and it does exactly what I need it to do. It’s lightweight, dries quickly, and fits well, neither too tight nor too loose. The cut allows for good airflow, and I’ve found it comfortable even on longer runs in the heat.

One of the things I appreciate most is the colour. It’s bright — really bright — which means I’m much more visible to drivers and cyclists, whether on quiet rural roads or shared trails. I don’t have to think twice about being seen, even in lower light or when the weather turns.

Sure, it’s made from 100% polyester like many other running tops, but what sets it apart for me is the simplicity and the way it just works. It doesn’t ride up, doesn’t rub, and packs down easily in my travel kit. Those small details make a big difference for something I rely on so often.

This singlet isn’t flashy or packed with tech, but it’s reliable and purposeful — and that’s exactly what I need from every item I carry.

Long sleeve shirt

Over the years, I’ve trained in all kinds of weather — from scorching 35°C afternoons to sub-zero starts before sunrise. After nearly 45 years of running marathons, I’ve learned what to wear — and when — to stay comfortable and focused.

When the temperature drops below 5°C, that’s my cue to pull on a long-sleeve shirt. It’s the perfect in-between layer: warm enough to stave off the chill, yet breathable enough for effort.

What to Look For in a Long Sleeve Running Top

• Thermal Regulation – You want just enough insulation to stay warm without overheating as your body temperature rises during a run.
• Breathable and Wicking – Moisture-wicking fabric helps manage sweat, keeping you dry and reducing wind chill in cooler conditions.
• Visibility – Reflective details are essential when running in low-light settings, such as early winter mornings or foggy rural roads.
• Ethical Construction – Prioritise brands with a commitment to fair labour practices and low-impact production methods.
• Versatility – A good long-sleeve shirt should work well on its own on cool days and layer comfortably under a jacket in colder conditions.

Recommendation

I currently run in the Proviz REFLECT360 Men’s Long Sleeve Top, and it has become my go-to when temperatures drop. Built from breathable polyester, it’s surprisingly lightweight for how warm it feels — and the brushed interior adds a layer of comfort that makes a big difference on crisp mornings.

The standout feature, of course, is its full-body reflectivity. During the day, it looks like a neutral grey shirt. But when headlights or streetlamps hit it, the entire shirt lights up, making it ideal for low-visibility runs. It gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m running near traffic or in misty country conditions.

While the REFLECT360 range doesn’t yet use recycled fabrics, Proviz is making progress on sustainability and is committed to ethical sourcing and long-lasting construction.

All in all, it’s a practical, high-vis solution for cold-weather running — functional, reliable, and travel-ready.

Outer Layer

A gilet is one of the most versatile items in my running kit. It adds core warmth without restricting movement or adding bulk — ideal for layering in shoulder seasons or early-morning runs when a full jacket would be too much. Because I only carry one, it needs to do a lot with very little.

What to Look For in a Running Gilet

• Wind Resistance – A good gilet shields your core from chilly winds while still allowing excess heat to escape.
• Freedom of Movement – Look for a lightweight, non-restrictive cut that works well over a base or midlayer.
• Reflectivity – Essential for staying visible on dark roads or in low-light conditions, especially when running in rural or urban areas near roads.
• Compactness – Your gilet should pack down small enough to stash in a running vest or travel bag with ease.
• Durability and Design – Opt for hard-wearing fabrics and thoughtful details, such as zip pockets and a dropped tail, for added coverage.

Recommendation

I now run with the Proviz Men’s Fully Reflective Running Gilet, and it’s become one of the most valuable pieces in my entire travel wardrobe. True to its name, the gilet offers 360-degree reflectivity, lighting up under headlights or streetlamps to dramatically improve visibility — a huge plus when running in the dark or near traffic.

What sets it apart from other reflective gear I’ve tried is the balance it strikes between visibility, weight, and weather protection. It’s windproof, water-resistant, and breathable enough to keep me comfortable across a range of conditions. The fit is athletic but not tight, allowing for layering without excess fabric flapping about.

It’s not made from recycled materials, but Proviz’s production standards are improving, and the quality of the gilet means I won’t need to replace it any time soon. Whether I’m out for a dawn run or navigating unfamiliar streets at night, this gilet gives me peace of mind — and just enough warmth to stay comfortable without overheating.

Headwear

I’m not one to cover up my head unless it is either very sunny or very cold.

What to look out for

Whatever you own/travel with must protect you from harmful UV rays (in sunny weather) and provide thermal insulation/wind protection for your head (in cold weather). It also needs to let the moisture out.

My recommendation

Whether you are exercising or just travelling to a colder country, my go-to items are included in my Minimalist Travel Wardrobe and Carry-On Packing List For Men.

Gloves

When the temperature dips below 5°C (41°F), a good pair of running gloves becomes essential for keeping your hands warm and comfortable during outdoor runs.

What should you look for in running gloves?

• Warmth and Comfort: Look for gloves that provide adequate warmth without feeling bulky.
• Moisture-Wicking and Breathable: Materials like merino wool wick moisture away from your skin while maintaining breathability.
• Stretch and Fit: A snug fit ensures your hands stay warm while allowing full dexterity.
• Touchscreen Compatibility: If you’re navigating unfamiliar routes, touchscreen-friendly gloves save you the hassle of removing them to check your phone’s map.
• Lightweight Design: Ideal for layering or standalone use, depending on conditions.

My Recommendation

I now wear the Macpac Merino Liner Glove, an excellent choice for minimalist travellers and runners seeking a lightweight glove made from 100% merino wool. Naturally insulating, breathable, and odour-resistant, these gloves offer soft next-to-skin comfort and regulate temperature well during active use. Although they don’t support touchscreen functionality, their low bulk makes them easy to layer under heavier gloves or wear on their own in milder cold. Durable and easy to pack, they meet my needs for a practical, sustainable glove made by a company with a clear environmental commitment—including product stewardship through Macpac’s Repair and Renew programme and Gear Library initiative.

Watch

I can hear you ask, “Do I need one?” Let’s put it this way: A running watch is beneficial if you are interested in tracking and improving your running, regardless of the level or distance.

Couldn’t I use my smartphone? That might be your next question. In many instances, yes. However, your smartphone collects limited data, and you must find where to store it. Sandra uses her Samsung Galaxy S25 and the Strava app to record her hikes and walks when needed. Strava will record your runs but won’t load and refresh maps or sync data.

I recommend a GPS watch that provides specific information about your run. Depending on the make and model and whether you export the data to Strava, it can be easier to track your progress and plan workouts and routes. Some even include free training plans. Whatever you choose, ultimately, the decision is yours.

What to look out for

• Battery life
• Accurate GPS and GLONASS
• Heart rate monitor or optical heart rate sensor
• Plastic lightweight strap
• Visible even in strong sunlight
• Night light
• Data memory
• Customisable data pages

Recommendation

After years of experimenting with various Garmin models, I am using the latest Forerunner 265. This model has a better charging dock than my previous version, the 235. Prior models sometimes didn’t charge appropriately because dry sweat would collect around the pins, impeding the charging process.

Sunglasses

While not a mandatory item, good sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, keep flying bugs out of your eyes, and prevent squinting.

What to look out for

• Fit – The temple arms should not be too tight (to cause you headaches) or too loose (to fall off your head when you tip it forward)
• Adjustable nose piece – You should be able to adjust your sunglasses two-dimensionally: (1) to the width of your nose and (2) closer or further away from your face
• Soft edges – This is especially important for the parts that actually touch your face/head, such as the temple arms and nose piece
• Wrap around style – Sports sunglasses, by their very nature, wrap around the head more than conventional glasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays entering from the sides
• Frame material – Needs to be flexible yet strong to handle the knocks and not break easily
• Lightweight – Look for the lightest glasses you can find (ideally under 30 grams).
• Safe lenses – The better sports sunglasses have thicker lenses that offer impact resistance against anything that may hit the lens (branches, stones, etc), with the best sports sunglass lenses being made of 2mm thick polycarbonate
  Lens coating – Good lenses have options such as hydrophobic coatings (which shed sweat and water) or anti-fog coatings

Recommendation

I use Rudy Project Rydon Sunglasses. These glasses have transition lenses with my prescription. Admittedly, they are not cheap but have had them now for two years, I can not recommend them highly enough.

Identification band

Given that I run in different locations all the time, Sandra insisted I wear or carry some form of identification on me – for my own safety and her peace of mind.

Why not run with my ID card? you may ask. If you run as much as I do, your ID card will suffer. And the last thing I’d want to do is to have to replace my driver’s licence when I’m somewhere overseas.

What to look out for

If you trip up and get knocked unconscious or get run over by a car while out running, an ID that carries your name, your emergency contact and some other vital information (such as your blood group and allergies) not only helps emergency services but also allows them to notify your loved ones.

I recommend choosing a wristband ID instead of a shoe tag as shoes can fall off in an accident and are more likely to be removed if someone is more interested in your shoes than in rescuing you.

Recommendation

I have owned some form of Road iD for many years. I started with shoe tags but have since moved away from them for the above reasons.

Nowadays, I wear my Road ID tag (called Road iD Sidekick ID) on my watch. Made of a metal plate with a stretch loop at each end that secures onto my watch strap, it includes my personal details – my full name, country and year of birth, and my emergency contact details – laser engraved for quick reference.

Running belt

For some of you, your shorts pockets might be sufficient to store items such as your phone, keys, and card/s. I run long distances, so I need extra nutrition and to carry my smartphone. It wouldn’t make for a comfortable run if I tried to squeeze a banana or energy balls into my shorts’ pockets, would it? That’s when my running belt comes in handy. I’m so used to it that I use it on all my runs these days, even if only for my smartphone on shorter runs.

What to look out for

• Adjustable belt
• Zip pocket (long enough to fit my smartphone in)
• No bounce design
• Versatile enough to hold a little or a lot

Recommendation

I have used two different running belts over the years. I started with an Original SPIbelt, but eventually, its zipper broke and had to be replaced. At the time, the only one available where we were was a big-brand Waistpack. This only lasted 11 months before the zipper also broke. I reverted to an Original SPIbelt because it works for me.

I like the fact that it was created by a runner who had a problem, solved it, and created a product and a successful company because of it. Did you know that Kim Overton chose the company and brand name to stand for small personal item belt? Even as the company grows, it remains in Texas, USA, where the product is handmade.

Headphones

I run in unfamiliar places all the time, and 99 per cent of the time, I wear headphones to listen to podcasts and audiobooks.

If you are one of the 61% of runners listening to something during their run (according to a Runner’s World survey), you will also need to include headphones or earbuds in your packing list.

What to look out for

• Ability to hear noise around me, such as traffic
• Water-resistant
• Lightweight
• Sound quality
• Easy to control the sound or tracks

Recommendation

Music and podcasts while we explore the world are critical to me. After years of using the standard corded headphones with a 3.5mm Plug, I researched the best exercise-based, waterproof, long-life earbuds I could find. Ultimately, only one stood out: the Jabra Elite 8 Active.

They are pretty pricey, but included several features I was looking for:

• From a safety point of view, I use the Hear-Through feature to hear the traffic noise around me. They provide an easy option to swap from noise cancellation to hearing traffic noise and conversations without having to take the earbuds out
• Dust and waterproof to IP68 standard. I run in all weather, so this was critical.
• Long-lasting battery: I can run for up to 8 hours on a single charge, although when I return from my runs, I always pop the earbuds straight back into the charging dock.
• Microphone—Each earbud has a microphone, apparently designed to ensure that only my voice is heard clearly and that there is no distraction from my environment.
• Don’t fall out of my ears while I run. This is the first pair of non-over-the-ear headphones/earbuds, so I have been apprehensive about them falling out while I run. Luckily, they come with four different-sized covers to test them out in my ears. This ensures a snug fit and the removal of outside noise.

Massage Ball

One of the first-world issues with running while I travel is that I don’t have a regular medical team that knows my medical history and can treat any running-related injuries. I do a lot of self-management. Many times, you can use what you have. Body weight exercises and active stretching all help. But there are times when specific parts of your body need a massage.

Recommendation

One must-have item is a small massage ball. Although the Gaiam Restore Ultimate Foot Massager is marketed primarily for your feet, it can be used on different body parts with equal success.

Toe Spacers

While training for the 2022 Hawke’s Bay Marathon, I developed Morton’s Neuroma, a burning pain in the ball of my foot that felt like I had stepped on a stone. Because I wear minimalist running shoes, the issue was exacerbated. The podiatrist treated me, but it didn’t resolve the issue. Ultimately, through my investigations, I stumbled on the Correct Toes toe spacers, a lifesaver. These silicone toe spacers helped to separate my toes, improved my foot muscle strength and mobility and eventually stopped the pain. They are made of lightweight silicone, and I now travel with them and use them regularly.

Environmental, social, and corporate governance of our recommended running brands

• Buff Corporate Social Responsibility Statement
• Fox River Sustainability Statement
• Garmin Sustainability Policies
• Icebreaker Transparency Statement
• Jabra Sustainability Statement
• Janji Responsibility
• Macpac Sustainability Report
• Osprey Sustainability
• Patagonia Environmental and Social Footprint Statement
• Proviz Sustainability Statement
• Rockay’s Mission
• Xero Shoes Promise to Sustainability

Unfortunately, the following companies do not have any form of publicly available environmental, social, and corporate governance policy or statement:

• Gaiam
• Road iD
• Rudy Project
• SPIbelt
• T8

Travelling UltraLight? Here’s My Weekend Run Trip Packing List

While my kit is designed for long-term minimalist travel, I get that many readers are heading off for a weekend getaway or short runcation. If that’s you—and you’re flying or travelling light—this is the pared-down version of my gear that still covers the essentials.

One of everything is usually enough:

• Shoes: Xero Shoes HFS II (packable, lightweight, and great for road or light trail)
• Socks: Fox River Arid Lightweight Merino blend (anti-odour, quick-drying)
• Shorts: Janji AFO Middle Shorts (with built-in lining, so no separate underwear needed)
• Top: Proviz Reflect360 Short Sleeve (high visibility for early/late runs)
• Watch: Garmin Forerunner 265 (lightweight and long-lasting)
• Extras: Buff (versatile for headwear, neck warmth, or sun protection), Macpac Merino Gloves (if cold)

If you’re flying: Always carry your shoes, socks, and watch in your cabin luggage. Checked bags go missing, but your run doesn’t have to.

Complete all-season running gear packing list

This does not include my day-to-day Minimalist Travel Wardrobe and Carry-On Packing List For Men, which I have listed elsewhere.

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