There are two ways to discover a city.

On foot… or on foot, just a little faster.

For a lot of runners, vacation starts with one simple question: “Where am I going for my run tomorrow morning?”

Because there aren’t many better ways to explore a new place. You watch the city wake up, stumble across a café you never would have found otherwise, take a detour just because a trail looks promising. And before you know it, you’re back at the hotel with 12 km in your legs and the feeling that you really got to know the place.

Passionate about both running and travel, Alexandra Guéranger-Renaud is the kind of person who laces up her running shoes the moment she sets down her luggage. We asked her which essentials she never leaves home without.

Good news: you can find them all at Sports Experts.

“Some of my favourite places were discovered on a run. You see so much more than when you stick to the tourist streets.”

Essential #1: A running vest

No matter where she’s headed, Alexandra always travels with a running vest.

Think of your vest as your purse. You can stash your flasks, phone, sunscreen, a credit card and, most importantly, your bathing suit.

Because you never know when a beach, a lake, or a river is going to show up on your route.

“I love heading out without a set itinerary. If I come across a spot where I want to stop, I can. Everything I need is already with me.”

👉 Shop for your jacket at Sports Experts

Essential #2: Flasks… and a water filter

The plan was a quick 45 minutes.

Then you spot a lighthouse, a lookout, a beach, a trail that looks too good to pass up.

Two hours later, you realize you should have brought more water.

Alexandra never leaves without a water filter that attaches directly to her flask, a simple way to refill almost anywhere without having to carry all your water from the start.

👉 Shop for your hydration flask at Sports Experts

👉 Shop for your water filter at Sports Experts

Essential #3: A hat that can get wet

Not every hat is made for running. When it’s hot out, Alexandra goes for a lightweight model that absorbs water well.

At every fountain or water source, she soaks it for a few seconds before heading back out.

“It sounds like a small thing, but it really does make a difference. Keeping your head cool is huge when it’s hot.”

👉 Shop for your running cap at Sports Experts

Essential #4: Nutrition that travels well

Nutrition deserves a little corner in your suitcase too.

A few energy chews, a gel or two, or a bar take up almost no space but can make all the difference when a run goes a little longer than expected.

“I always keep a few in my vest. That way, I don’t have to think about it before every run.”

Simple, lightweight and you’ll be glad you have them when your “quick jog” turns into two hours of exploring.

👉 Magasiner votre nutrition chez Sports Experts

Essential #5: Shoes that can handle anything

When you’re travelling, you don’t always get to choose your terrain.

One day you’re running on a bike path. The next, you’re on a gravel road or an improvised trail because the view was impossible to resist.

Rather than packing multiple pairs of shoes, Alexandra prefers a versatile shoe that transitions easily from road to trail.

“My best runs usually start on the pavement and end on a trail I hadn’t planned to take. I like having shoes that can keep up with my ideas.

Essential #6: Protection and comfort – the details that make a difference

They might not be the most exciting things to buy, but they’re often the ones you’re most glad you packed.

When you’re running while travelling, you can spend hours in the sun. A good sweat-resistant sunscreen is a must, especially if you’re exploring somewhere warm.

And then there’s Body Glide. Heat, humidity, long runs: chafing happens fast. A few swipes before you head out can save you a lot of grief and keep you enjoying your run to the fullest.

👉 Shop for your sunscreen at Sports Experts

👉 Shop for your Body Glide at Sports Experts

Alexandra’s tips for running while travelling

• Download your route to your watch before you go, but leave room for detours 😉
• Don’t run for performance. Run to explore.
• Ask locals for recommendations. The best routes aren’t always on Strava.
• Pause your watch. Your time doesn’t matter. Enjoy yourself, take breaks, go for a swim. 

In a nutshell: the essentials for running on the road

A few well-chosen pieces of gear can turn a simple run into a real adventure.

Before you zip up your bag, make sure you’ve packed:

• A running vest
• Flasks and a water filter
• Some sports nutrition
• A running-friendly hat
• Versatile shoes
• Sunscreen and Body Glide

You’ll be ready to discover your next destination… one kilometre at a time.

Want to learn more?

Planning a trip? Sports Experts has also put together guides and tips to help you head out fully equipped.

Check out:

• Their dedicated running section, with advice, new arrivals, and a wide range of gear for your next run.
• The travel essentials guide, packed with practical ideas so you never forget a thing before you leave.