| What it is | Pre-packed supply bag at an aid station |
| Transported by | The race organization |
| Holds | Food, fluids, dry clothes, lights, gear |
| Vital when | Long races / no crew allowed |
A drop bag is a bag of personal supplies that a runner packs in advance and the race transports to designated aid stations, where the runner can access it during the event. It lets runners resupply with food, fluids, dry clothing, lights, and gear at key points — especially valuable in ultras and where no crew is allowed. Smart drop-bag planning is an important ultrarunning skill.
Your stash on course
Staged at an aid station for when there’s no crew — essential logistics in a 100-miler.
Frequently asked questions
What is a drop bag?
A drop bag is a labeled bag of supplies you pack before a race and hand to the organizers, who transport it to specific aid stations along the course. When you reach that aid station, you can dig into your drop bag for whatever you pre-staged — making it a personal resupply point during the race.
What do you put in a drop bag?
Common items include your preferred energy gels and food, electrolyte mix, spare socks and shoes, dry or warmer clothing, a headlamp and batteries for night sections, anti-chafe and blister supplies, and any personal nutrition. Pack for the conditions you expect at that point of the race, and label everything clearly.
When do you need drop bags?
They're most important in longer races and ultras, especially where crews aren't allowed or can't reach certain aid stations. Drop bags let you resupply with personal items and gear at remote points, so planning what goes in each bag — and at which aid station — is a key part of ultra race strategy.
Sources
- Drop bag strategy — American Trail Running Association
- Ultra logistics — The Mountaineers