3-Day Packing Essentials

The 2025 Susan G. Komen 3-Day® is almost here, have you started thinking about what to pack? Whether you’re making it a road trip or taking a flight to get to your event, preparation ahead of time will make all the difference. From must-have toiletries to on-route essentials, we’ve put together a handy checklist for hotel and camping to help you roll into the Pink Bubble fully prepped and ready to go.

WHAT TO BRING

Gear: Bring one piece of luggage, 35 pounds or less, that is clearly labeled with your name, participant identification number and cell phone number. Make sure it’s marked with something such as a unique luggage tag to help you pick it out of a crowd (Don’t use a trash bag or bungee cords).

Clothing: (for all types of weather)

  • Two pairs of broken-in shoes
  • T-shirts & shorts
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Underwear & sports bra
  • Two pairs of socks per day
  • Sweat pants, long pants, leggings
  • Warm fleece or sweater
  • Sleepwear
  • Hat or visor
  • Pack a few outfits for each day to change after returning to camp

Toiletries: Event hotels tend to have toiletries available to you, but we strongly recommend packing everything you might need for your hygiene and comfort.

  • Sunscreen
  • Toothpaste/toothbrush
  • moisturizer
  • shampoo, conditioner
  • deodorant, razor
  • hair ties/hairbrush
  • Also, don’t forget any prescription medication that you take regularly

First Aid: On event the Medical Crew will have supplies to tend to any major medical issues, but we recommend bringing your own supplies for treating minor medical and personal problems you might need along the route like band aids, petroleum jelly, antacid and pain relievers.

Miscellaneous: Don’t forget to print and pack your credentials before showing up on event! (2-Day Walkers and 1-Day Walkers will receive your credentials when you arrive at the event). We also suggest bringing anything you may use daily or to document your experience in the Pink Bubble including a phone charger, journal, camera and your Bank of America Pink Ribbon Banking card to secure a special gift in camp!

Camping: For those camping at the San Diego 3-Day, you will spend each night in a 6.5’x 6.5’ tent. For maximum comfort, you’ll want to bring some camping gear such as a sleeping bag and pillow, an air mattress or camping pad, plastic sheets or a tarp to keep your tent and gear dry in case of rain, a headlamp or flashlight and mylar blankets. Make it more festive and throw in some decorations for your tent. You could earn a Tent Flair legacy pin!

On the route: Aside from your main piece of luggage, we recommend bringing a waist pack for use on the route with a few essentials you may want or need along your journey. We suggest packing this ahead of time so you’re sure to have everything you need out on the route. You may want to include in your waist pack a portable charger, sunglasses, sunscreen, money/credit card, identification and a water bottle to refill along the way. Keep it light, but fill it with anything you will possibly need. We serve water and sports drinks from large containers, but you must bring your own water bottle.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

Although fundraising is a core part of the Komen 3-Day, please don’t bring any donations, cash or otherwise, to the event. Be sure to have all your dollars added directly to your personal fundraising page before arriving at the hotel or campsite. To prevent loss or theft of any kind, leave behind any valuables such as fine jewelry, designer goods, or large amounts of cash. For safety reasons, headphones or portable music players are not permissible while walking on event so, although you may use them while traveling, leave them in your hotel room before heading out on the route each morning.

We highly recommend: On Thursday night before the Opening Ceremony, be sure to charge your phone, print your credential and plan for a morning snack/breakfast. Be sure your waist pack is stocked with everything you need (extra socks, lip balm, etc.) and don’t forget your water bottle!

We can’t wait to see you in the Pink Bubble!

Dr. Judy’s 10-Year ‘Camino’ After Breast Cancer

Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.

When breast cancer entered Dr. Judy’s life in 2014, she was 64 and at the height of a demanding academic career, leading the biotechnology program at the University of California, Davis and working 60-hour weeks. With a family history of breast cancer, she never missed her annual mammogram. That spring, her mammogram showed something suspicious.

“I was a Nike sponsored marathon runner in my 30s and I have a Ph.D. in microbiology,” she told her doctor at the time. “I am a tough woman, but this scares me. My maternal grandmother died from metastatic breast cancer in 1967 at the age of 65.”

After a biopsy, Dr. Judy was diagnosed with Grade 1 tubular carcinoma, hormone receptor-positive, HER2 negative of her left breast. A lumpectomy followed, and radiation was recommended by her doctor. With her background in clinical medicine, Dr. Judy researched the risk and benefits of radiation of her non-aggressive cancer. She worried about possible heart valve damage. She respectfully declined radiation and decided to focus on lifestyle changes including nutrition, exercise and stress reduction.

But the road to recovery wasn’t easy.

“I got very depressed after my surgery,” Dr. Judy recalled. “This cancer was a reminder that chronic stress has serious effects on the body. So, I focused on increasing exercise, eating healthy, reducing alcohol consumption and adding yoga to reduce the stress from my high-powered job.” 

That October, she was introduced to the Susan G. Komen 3-Day® and joined the Hands Up For Hooters Team, after her sister Patty joined.  After our 2015 walk in San Diego, our sister Chrissy joined the team. In 2020, Chrissy was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer.

“The 3-Day changed my life,” Dr. Judy said. “It’s my spiritual journey (My Camino). Each year, I walk to raise money and awareness for breast cancer and I am usually one of the top fundraisers on the team.” 

Dr. Judy explained that her diagnosis didn’t just change her health, it also changed her outlook. The intense schedule that once defined her career no longer felt sustainable. 

“I was busy trying to change the world before I got breast cancer,” she said. “Facing my own mortality made me realize I had to make changes.”

In 2018 when her grandson was born, she made the decision to retire and shift her focus fully to her health, philanthropy and her family.   

“He wants to be a scientist like me,” she said with a big smile. “I want to be there for his college graduation. He’s my reason for getting up in the morning. I want to stay healthy so I can be a good grandma.”

Ten years after her diagnosis, Dr. Judy is now 75 and cancer free. She is gearing up for her 10th 60-mile walk at the San Diego 3-Day. Her husband, Kent, always joins her and is a valued cheerleader. They have been married for over 52 years. 

“Many can’t believe I am going to walk again at my age. I tell them I’m healthier now than I was in 2014,” she laughs. “But I do take one sweep van before the San Juan Hill. That stretch is tough.” 

This year’s 3-Day represents a pivotal milestone for Dr. Judy as she celebrates 10 years of walking with the Pink Bubble and a decade of being cancer-free. It is also the 10th Anniversary of the Hands Up For Hooters Team. 

“For three days you forget politics and other things that are going on in your life. You’re surrounded by love, stories and people walking to honor loved ones and some survivors who are still receiving cancer treatments,” Dr. Judy said.  “It’s a celebration of life. I am not only a survivor; I am a Thriver!” 

Hydration and Physical Activity Tips for the 3-Day Community

National Hydration Day, observed every June 23, is a timely reminder of just how essential water is for overall health and well-being. For those who are navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, or life after treatment, staying well-hydrated coupled with physical activity is vital in the healing and recovery process.

At the Susan G. Komen 3-Day, hydration is a top priority for the Pink Bubble community. Walkers are encouraged to drink about 4-5 ounces of fluid per mile, alternating between water and a sports drink to help maintain sodium and electrolyte balance.

Kirstin B., a registered nurse and medical crew volunteer, sees firsthand how dehydration affects participants.

“We often treat walkers for headaches, dizziness and digestion problems. All signs of dehydration,” Kirstin said. “We usually start rehydrating patients at the 3-Day with water or Gatorade, but sometimes IV hydration is needed. It’s critical for participants to be drinking a lot of water while walking during the event and while training.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, staying well-hydrated helps reduce the risk of developing kidney stones, urinary tract infections and constipation, and supports improved digestion, better sleep and energy levels.

So, how much water should you be drinking?

Hydration supports every system in the body, from digestion to blood circulation and brain function.

  • Daily water needs vary based on factors like age, sex, pregnancy status, activity level and breastfeeding status. The CDC recommends speaking with your doctor to determine the right amount for you.
  • You can also boost your hydration with water-rich foods including lettuce, cucumbers, watermelon and celery.

Just as hydration is important, physical activity is a powerful tool for your health. It helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. In the breast cancer space, research shows that women who exercise regularly have a 10%-20% lower risk of breast cancer than women who are inactive. This benefit applies to both premenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Research also shows breast cancer survivors who are more had better survival. For example, one study found that physical activity equal to a 30-minute brisk walk several times a week improved survival.

Whether you’re training for the 3-Day or looking to improve your overall wellness, staying hydrated and moving your body are two of the most powerful habits you can do for your health. Start today by setting a daily hydration goal and taking a short walk.

Tips to Stay Hydrated:

  • Drink 64 oz. (8 cups) of water the day before a walk
  • Drink 16 oz. (2 cups) of water before walking
  • Carry a refillable water bottle
  • Add lemon or cucumber slices to flavor your water
  • Choose water over sugary drinks
  • Drink a glass of water before each meal or snack
  • Rehydrate after a walk or exercise with both water and electrolytes
  • Remember you may need to drink more fluids in hot or humid weather

 Statements and opinions expressed are that of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.