So this blog is not just about what to pack for a running holiday, but also how to travel light using only hand luggage, as we all want to avoid those extra airline fees! One of the reasons we love our Lagos accommodation at RunScape Adventures is that the apartments are fully self-catering. Each one has 2 bedrooms (a double and a twin), a lovely lounge area, bathroom and a kitchen. The mega-bonus is there is also a washing machine in each apartment so that you don’t have to pack loads of everything!
Now the weather in Portugal in October is an average of 22 degrees, which makes it perfect for a running holiday and for packing light! Every day we will be running, sometimes even twice a day if you fancy a recovery run down to the award-winning beaches to feel the sand beneath your toes or watch the sun set! The weather is perfect for vests and t-shirts and pop a couple of laundry tablets in with your hand luggage and you can get away with 5/6 of these for the week. The same goes for shorts, 4 pairs of these will be enough with the washing. We’ll leave underwear up to you though!
Coming on a running holiday from the UK, you will undoubtedly already have a waterproof running jacket. Pack this, as if you don’t, it will definitely rain! A couple of base layers are advisable too, as these can easily be tied around your waist or left at base if not needed. In the afternoons and evenings, we will get the chance to walk around the beautiful Algarve towns and eat local produce in the fantastic eateries within walking distance of your accommodation in Lagos. Light trousers or shorts are ideal for this as well as a couple of non-technical tops!
Now to the shoes….A lot of our running will be on trails, it’s more of a running adventure if you can go where the cars can’t! Trail shoes or sturdy road shoes are recommended. The ground will be hard, so you don’t need big lugs, just something supportive and comfortable. To get the most from your running holiday, we advise 1 or 2 pairs of running shoes plus some flip flops or sliders to relax by the pool when you’re done. As well as running sessions, we will be offering strength and conditioning sessions by the pool. Afterwards, it would be rude not to have a quick dip so definitely pack those swimmers! Towels are provided, but you may wish to bring a small sweat towel. A water bottle is also a must!
The coastline along the Algarve is spectacular and you will get the opportunity to do some longer runs here if you wish too. A hydration pack is ideal to carry all the fluid that you need for your running adventure abroad. If you are very specific with your running nutrition, then by all means bring some out with you but we will get the chance to shop for some high energy snacks once in Portugal. The same will go for toiletries, RunScape Adventures will provide shampoo, conditioner and shower gel for each apartment to cut down on waste and try and make your running holiday as economical as possible!