Should You Book Your Marathon Through A Running Tour Company?

Getting a place in one of the world's biggest marathons isn't always easy. Events such as the London, New York, Sydney and Tokyo Marathons attract huge numbers of applicants every year, leaving many runners disappointed when they are unable to get an entry.

If you've missed out in the ballot and don't want to commit to a charity place, a running tour company could provide another route to the start line. These companies offer guaranteed race entries as part of travel packages, making them an increasingly popular option for runners who want to experience some of the world's biggest events.

Like any purchase, though, it's worth understanding exactly what you're paying for. Tour packages can offer excellent value for some runners, while others may find they're better off entering events independently. Here's what you need to know before making your decision.

What Is A Running Tour Company?

Running tour companies specialise in organising travel to running events around the world, and not just sold out events. They work directly with race organisers and are allocated a number of guaranteed entries, which they sell as part of a package that usually includes accommodation and, in some cases, flights, airport transfers and other services.

Rather than simply selling you a race place, they're providing an organised travel experience designed specifically for runners. Many also arrange welcome meetings, course briefings, guided shakeout runs and support throughout race weekend.

For major international events, this can remove a great deal of the planning and uncertainty that comes with travelling abroad.

The Biggest Advantage Is A Guaranteed Entry

For many runners, the biggest attraction is obvious. Instead of relying on the luck of a ballot, booking through an authorised tour operator gives you a guaranteed place in the race.

This can be particularly valuable if you've been trying unsuccessfully to gain entry for several years or if you're working towards completing the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Waiting for a successful ballot every year can significantly delay those plans, whereas a tour package allows you to choose when you want to run.

Knowing your place is secure also means you can begin training much earlier with complete confidence. Remember though that you won't be able to get an entry in an event in your home country through a tour operator, so if you live in the UK you cannot get a spot in London from one.

Everything Is Organised For You

Travelling to a marathon in another country can involve a surprising amount of organisation. Flights, hotels, airport transfers, transport to the race start and collecting your race number all need to be carefully planned.

A good running tour company removes much of that work. Because they organise these trips every year, they know which hotels work best, how long transfers usually take and what runners need over race weekend.

Instead of worrying about logistics, you can spend more time concentrating on your training and enjoying the experience.

You'll Be Surrounded By Other Runners

Travelling with hundreds of other runners creates a very different experience from travelling independently. Everyone around you is there for the same reason, which creates a real sense of community throughout the trip.

This can be particularly reassuring if you're travelling alone or taking part in your first overseas marathon. There are always people to chat to, share experiences with and celebrate alongside once you've crossed the finish line.

Many runners who book one marathon tour find themselves returning year after year because of the friendships they've made along the way.

Local Knowledge Can Make A Big Difference

Experienced marathon tour operators know the destination extremely well. They understand local transport systems, know the best places to eat before race day and can advise on everything from collecting your race pack to getting to the start line.

Having that expertise available can be invaluable if you're travelling somewhere you've never visited before, particularly if there's a language barrier or unfamiliar transport network. It also provides reassurance should anything unexpected happen during your trip.

However you do it a trip to a race like the Tokyo Marathon will be expensive

The Cost Is The Biggest Drawback

The biggest disadvantage of booking through a running tour company is usually the price. Guaranteed entries come as part of a package, so you'll generally pay considerably more than someone who entered through the ballot and booked their own travel.

Part of that additional cost reflects the convenience you're receiving. You're paying for the guaranteed race place, organised accommodation, experienced staff and the support that comes with travelling as part of a group.

For some runners, that's money well spent. Others may prefer to save the difference by organising everything themselves if they're fortunate enough to secure a ballot place.

You May Have Less Flexibility

Package holidays naturally involve some compromise. Hotels are usually selected by the tour operator, and travel dates may be fixed around the event schedule.

If you were hoping to spend extra time exploring the destination or extend your holiday, you may find fewer options than if you arranged everything independently. Some operators do offer flexible packages, so it's worth checking exactly what's included before booking.

Research The Company Carefully

Not all running tour companies provide the same level of service. Before booking, spend some time researching the company, reading independent reviews and checking how long they've been organising marathon trips.

Find out exactly what's included in the package. Does it include flights or just accommodation? Are airport transfers provided? Is breakfast included? How close is the hotel to the race start and finish? Is race entry definitely guaranteed? A cheaper package isn't always better value if it leaves you paying for several additional extras later.

Book Early If You Decide To Go Ahead

Guaranteed entry packages for the world's biggest marathons are often in high demand. Once ballot results are announced, many runners immediately begin looking at tour operators, and packages can sell out surprisingly quickly.

Booking early usually gives you the widest choice of hotels and travel options while also allowing you to spread the cost over a longer period if payment plans are available. It also gives you plenty of time to begin training with complete confidence that your place is secured.

Read more about choosing your first marathon here.

Is A Running Tour Company Right For You?

The answer depends on your priorities. If running a particular marathon means everything to you and you don't want to rely on the ballot, a tour operator may be the simplest and most reliable solution.

If you're confident organising overseas travel, happy to wait for a ballot place or don't mind choosing a different marathon, booking independently could save you a considerable amount of money.

Neither option is right or wrong. It simply comes down to whether you value convenience, certainty and support enough to justify the additional cost.

Final Thoughts

Running tour companies have opened the door to some of the world's biggest marathons for thousands of runners who may otherwise never have experienced them. They remove much of the stress involved in organising overseas travel and provide a guaranteed route into events that are becoming increasingly difficult to enter.

Before booking, take the time to compare what's included, research the company's reputation and consider whether the extra cost fits your budget. For many runners, the peace of mind and convenience make the investment worthwhile, while others will prefer the flexibility of organising everything themselves.

Whichever route you choose, the most important thing is arriving at the start line prepared, excited and ready to enjoy one of the greatest experiences in running.