What should I bring to a 5k?

[Anonymous]

I'm doing a 5k for a charity. We are walking it, and some of us will have kids. Should I bring water bottles? Any recommendations on what most folks do, especially those doing it in a non-timed manner. I used to run very casually 10 year ago but this is the first organized event I've done in years, and I feel pretty clueless. Thanks.

[Anonymous]

For a 5k, I would just drink the water at the aid stations. Depending on the size of the race, you definitely want to arrive early to park and check in (unless it is a larger race where you check in at the expo the day before). And there will be lines for the porta potties, so plan accordingly, especially with kiddos. I would just wear a Spi-belt and put your phone and anything else you might want/need inside that. Figure out a post-race meet up plane - I like to have phone w/ me for this purpose. Have fun!

[Anonymous]

Depending on the size of the race, there may not be any aid stations. I have done plenty of local 5Ks where this is the case.

A 5K walk should take you about an hour (or less depending upon how fast you walk) so really all you will need is a bottle of water, if that.

[Anonymous]

Where a backpack if you are just walking for your phone/water. You could even do a bag that you carry across your body for phone, ID, bottle of water. It could even be a mini bottle of water.

[Anonymous]

*Wear

[Anonymous]

A lot of races don't allow backpacks, so OP check the race information to see what is allowed/not allowed.

[Anonymous]

Seriously, people, you need water for walking a 5k? You do know that it's just a bit over 3 miles, right? Not like walking 3 miles in the Sahara Desert. YOu couldn't possible go with out it??? You're not even breaking a sweat.
And there is at least 1 water stop along the route and if it's an out-and-back (loop) than you can hit up the same water spot when you turn around and head back to the finish line. And of course, there is a ton of water available at the finish line.

Don't bring anything OP. Just have pockets for your car keys. Wear a long sleeve shirt and shorts. That should suffice if you are walking at a leisurely pace. Wear a t shirt underneath (grab the one they give you at registration) if plan on walking faster than leisurely and get a bit warm.

How old are the kids that will be with you? I'd be more worried about keeping the kids from being bored in the stroller than bringing a backpack with water (as alluded to above).