Here’s the deal: when you’re in a multi-day race, recovery is everything.

As soon as you cross that finish line (or, you know, the day’s finish line), your first priority should be you. Refuel, rehydrate, and start the recovery process ASAP. Don’t worry about sorting out your bag or fiddling with your gear right away—your stuff can wait.

Remember, your body is doing the hard work, not your backpack. So take care of yourself first. Get some food in, drink up, and let your muscles chill for a bit before you start playing Tetris with your gear.

You’ll be glad you did when you’re feeling fresh(er) for the next leg of the race!