Ultramarathon Drop Bag Checklist: Pack by Checkpoint
An ultramarathon drop bag works best when its contents match the section after you collect it. Start with the permitted checkpoint, expected arrival time and what needs to move into your vest before you leave.
This checklist organizes checkpoint supplies. Our finish bag guide covers what you want after finishing; the crew handoff guide covers transferring a prepared vest. A checkpoint bag has its own job.
Confirm the drop bag rules before filling it
Write down the permitted location, bag size, labeling instructions, delivery deadline and collection arrangements. Confirm whether your distance can use that location and whether you will pass it more than once.
Keep required equipment with you whenever the rules say it must be carried throughout the race. A spare layer or lamp waiting in a bag does not replace an item that must already be in your vest. Check the rules for poles before planning a later pickup.
What to put in an ultra drop bag
Use the table as a planning template. Choose the items your route and rules call for; you do not need to pack every optional item.
| Group | Items to consider | Decision to make |
|---|---|---|
| Label | Name, bib, permitted station, return information | Follow the organizer’s format |
| Food refill | Practiced food, gels or drink mix | Amount for the next planned section |
| Lighting | A tested spare lamp and compatible batteries if useful and permitted | When they must be carried or collected |
| Clothing | Dry layer, socks, gloves or other chosen clothing | Expected conditions after this stop |
| Container supplies | Compatible replacement parts or container if needed | Confirm fit before race day |
| Protection | Sealed inner bags for items that need to stay dry | Separate dry supplies from used wet items |
| Stop card | A short list of actions and onward supplies | Make it readable without emptying the bag |
Pack one stop at a time
Group the supplies for each visit separately when a checkpoint repeats. Mark the groups in the order you expect to use them. Keep a reserve distinct from the portion intended for the next section so a quick refill does not take everything on the first pass.
Put the stop card near the opening. Write the actions in the order you have practiced: check remaining supplies, refill containers, replace food, move needed clothing or lighting into reach, then close the vest. The card should describe your plan rather than a universal nutrition or water target.
Protect the contents within the allowed bag size
Choose a bag the organizer accepts. Put dry items in separate sealed inner storage and check that the label remains legible. Leave room to return used items without contaminating the food you will use later.
At Javelina, the organizer currently describes bags at Jeadquarters and Jackass Junction for the longer formats; it also states limits on bulky remote bags. Use our Javelina-specific packing table and the official event instructions for the current arrangement. Other events can have different permissions. The Black Canyon guide explains why you must confirm support details for your exact distance.
Rehearse the transfer into your vest
Put the bag on a table and wear your packed vest. Follow the card using your actual containers and clothing. Notice which action makes you put loose items down or reopen a pocket.
Adjust the sequence, then repeat with fewer supplies left in the vest. Use the vest packing workflow to keep frequent-use items accessible. If the collected supplies cannot fit without forcing closures, revisit the complete-load capacity check before choosing the pack.
Printable preparation sheet and collection plan
The race gear guides hub includes a printable kit planning sheet. Use its section rows to record the checkpoint, onward water plan and required gear. Add the drop bag label and collection details beside your own itemized list.
Confirm who will retrieve each bag and when it will be returned. Keep finish clothes and travel essentials in the appropriate finish arrangement; do not depend on a remote bag returning before you need them.
LECAMO preparation template. Event examples checked October 1, 2026. Each organizer’s current rules determine access, required equipment and bag handling.