Top 5 Amazon Finds for Ultra Crews
Crewing an ultramarathon isn’t for the faint of heart or for anyone who likes to travel light. Between snacks, layers, gear, and keeping track of your runner’s ever-changing needs, your “packing light” plan disappears faster than your runner into the night.
After waiting at more aid stations than I can count and trial and error what really makes a difference, here are my top five favorite Amazon finds for ultra crews -- the gear I actually use, love, and recommend.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you). Every product listed here is one I’ve personally used or would recommend to any crew out there. 💛
💡 Before we jump into my favorite Amazon finds, grab your copy of my Ultra Crew Checklist — it’s a free, printable guide for organizing gear and keeping your sanity on race day.
🧊 1. YETI Hopper M Series Backpack Cooler
Shop it here → YETI Hopper M Series Backpack Cooler
If you’re hauling snacks, drinks, or recovery fuel, this YETI cooler is a crew essential. I love the size and portability — it’s easy to carry when aid stations aren’t exactly next to the parking lot.
If you’re deciding between models:
The M12 is great for packing your runner’s essentials only.
The M20 (shop here) gives you extra space for snacks and drinks for the whole crew -- probably worth it if you’ll be leapfrogging aid stations all day.
🪑 2. NEMO Moonlite Reclining Chair
Shop it here → NEMO Equipment Moonlite Reclining Chair
This is my favorite chair for crewing, hands down. It’s lightweight, clips onto a backpack, and takes up almost no space. Don’t let the size fool you -- it’s surprisingly comfortable (and yes, several from my crew have dozed off in it during an overnight 100).
💡 3. PETZL Rechargeable LED Headlamp
Shop it here → PETZL IKO CORE Rechargeable Headlamp
Runners love them but our crew does, too. This headlamp is lightweight, bright, and rechargeable, which makes it perfect for nighttime crewing. Don’t forget the backup batteries → link.
✅ Ultra Widow Tip:
Since my runner and I use the same headlamp, we always have backups ready to go. I love that it’s rechargeable — I can top off the rechargeable batteries between aid stations so it’s always ready for the next stretch.
📻 4. Cobra RX680 Walkie Talkies
Shop it here → Cobra RX680 Walkie Talkies
Cell service is hit or miss at most ultras, and that’s where these have saved the day. Whether you’re sending a crew member ahead to report back or caravanning between aid stations, walkie talkies keep your team connected (and they make you feel a little like a pit crew).
✅ Ultra Widow Tip:
These are fun to use if you and your crew are traveling to the race start together. Roger that.
🔥 5. Portable Propane Fire Pit
Shop it here → Portable Propane Fire Pit
This is a slightly different version from mine but it’s been a game changer! It might not be essential gear, but those small creature comforts make a big difference in keeping the crew happy through long nights.
Our crew loves it -- and so do the crews around us! There’s something about a warm fire that instantly turns an aid station into a hangout spot where crews swap ultra “war” stories.
✅ Ultra Widow Tip:
Don’t forget to bring the hotdogs and s’mores for late nights snacks for the crew.
🎁 Bonus Pick: Ultra Widow “Crew Over Miles” Sweatshirt
Shop it here → Ultra Widow Oversized “Crew Over Miles” Sweatshirt
Because you can’t talk crew comfort without the perfect layer. This heavyweight sweatshirt keeps you warm through aid station chills and finish line celebrations.
✨ Welcome to the Ultra Widow Crew
If you have a go-to crew item that deserves to be on this list, drop it in the comments or tag @ultra.widow — I’d love to add your favorites to my next roundup.
At its core, Ultra Widow is about making crewing (and supporting an ultra runner in everyday life) feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more doable. If you’ve ever stood at an aid station wondering if you packed the right gear or if you’ve debated whether to clap or cry when your runner signs up for another ultra — you’re in the right place.
So grab your headlamp, a snack, and maybe a strong coffee (or a glass of wine). Welcome to the Ultra Widow Crew — I’m glad you’re here.
