How to prepare for your first marathon overseas

Globally, marathon running is on the rise, thanks in part to the run-cation trend, where travellers combine the joys of exploring a new city with the thrill of chasing a personal best. To put this into perspective, a record 1.1 million people applied to enter the London Marathon in 2026. So, if you’re ready to turn a passion into adventure and run an international race this year, check out our how-to guide. 

Choosing your first international marathon

The first step is deciding which marathon to run. Weather conditions different from your home city can make adaptation harder, and longer travel times may worsen your jet lag. Steeper courses, meanwhile, demand strategic pacing and will test your strength and endurance. 

Next, research how to register for your chosen race – specifically, whether it’s first-come, first-served or a random lottery. Some events might also guarantee entry if you join an official tour package, meet a qualifying time or run for a charity partner. If entry isn’t guaranteed, always have a backup race in mind. 

Leading up to the race 

Once your registration is confirmed, book your flights and accommodation as early as possible to beat the rush and save money. Ideally, stay near the start or finish line to avoid race-day traffic. If you registered for the race through an official marathon travel package, much of this may be handled for you – from flights and transfers to hotel bookings and even dinner reservations. 

During training, take time to familiarise yourself with the course. Study maps and elevation profiles to train in a similar environment and fine-tune your pacing strategy. When you tackle longer runs, go through your full routine as if it was race day, testing everything from gear to breakfast and mid-run fuel, so that you’re fully prepared when the big day rolls around.

To minimise jet lag, gradually shift your bedtime closer to the destination’s time zone in the days before you travel.  

After you land 

Aim to arrive at your destination a few days before the race and pack all race-day essentials in your carry-on, in case your checked baggage goes missing. On the plane, use earplugs , noise-cancelling headphones  and an eye mask  to ensure quality rest. 

Once you arrive, schedule time for a light shakeout run, course familiarisation, race-pack collection and practising your race-day routine. Don’t forget to figure out how to get to the start line, as many surrounding roads will be closed and public transport may be disrupted on race day. In the lead up to the race, stick to familiar foods to avoid any untimely stomach issues. 

On the day 

Try not to let nerves get the better of you. Stick to your goal pace and fuel consistently with sports drinks and energy gels to avoid burning out. During the race, focus on enjoying yourself, taking in the exciting atmosphere and the spectators’ support. Once it’s all over, allow yourself plenty of rest, then make the most of your holiday by exploring the host city, tasting its cuisine and discovering all the landmarks. 

The best marathons for beginners to run in 2026:  

1. Bank of America Chicago Marathon  

One of the seven World Marathon Majors, the Chicago Marathon  will take place on 11 October. Renowned for its flat and fast course, it has been the stage for four world records. Starting and finishing in Grant Park, the route passes through 29 neighbourhoods, with aid stations every one to two miles and signage marking both kilometres and miles. Limited entries for the 2026 race are still available through the Charity Programme and Tour Operator Programme. 

2. TCS Amsterdam Marathon

The Amsterdam Marathon , which was awarded a Platinum Label by World Athletics, is one of the fastest courses worldwide. Scheduled for 18 October, the route begins and ends in the Olympic Stadium, taking runners under the Rijksmuseum, along the scenic Amstel River and through the 47-hectare Vondelpark. Unlike most major marathons, there’s no ballot system, with places allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration for the 2026 race closes on 5 October.

3. Shanghai Marathon  

Another Platinum Label Road Race, the Shanghai Marathon  is currently a candidate race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors. This largely flat course starts at the Bund Bull and finishes at Shanghai Stadium. Runners can experience the whole range of the city’s fascinating neighbourhoods, taking in breathtaking views of Huangpu River, The Bund’s historic architecture and Jing’an’s famous Buddhist temple. The race is scheduled for 6 December, with lottery registration expected to open in April. 

Looking for more exciting challenges? We’ve compiled a list of the world’s most scenic marathons to add to your bucket list.