Every drop bag at the Montane Spine Races must weigh no more than 20kg. The rule exists for one reason: safety. The slogan says it best: Twenty’s Plenty.
Why This Rule Matters
Each drop bag isn’t lifted once or twice. It’s lifted, carried, stacked, sorted, re-sorted, loaded, and unloaded dozens of times by logistics crews and checkpoint teams. Across the event, this adds up to hundreds of bags being moved thousands of times.
Even with good lifting technique, repeatedly handling heavy or awkward loads puts staff at real risk of back strain, muscle injuries, and long-term damage. Keeping bags to 20kg protects the people who make the race possible.
Packing Your Bag
You may use any style of bag, though duffle bags are preferred because they’re easier and safer for staff to handle. Whatever you choose, the maximum weight is 20kg.
Drop bags often get lighter as food and kit are used, but wet or muddy clothing and shoes add unexpected weight when put back in. A bag that started at 19.8kg can easily creep past the limit later.
Keeping your kit dry
Your drop bag will be moved in all weather, onto vehicles, into checkpoints. We recommend choosing a waterproof or highly water-resistant bag, or ensuring that individual items are packed inside dry bags or waterproof liners.
Bag Weighing
Give yourself margin. Don’t pack right to the edge.
The logistics team will weigh any bag they believe is close to the limit.
- If a bag is over 20kg, the runner must remove items
- Overweight bags will not be accepted at registration or on race day
This protects volunteers and keeps the movement of bags efficient and safe.
Final Reminder
The Spine is powered by a dedicated volunteer community. Respecting the 20kg limit is one of the simplest and most important ways to look after them.
Pack sensibly, think of the people carrying your kit, and remember:
Twenty’s Plenty.
