Don't forget to pack these essentials for Sydney's City2Surf

This weekend, thousands of Sydneysiders will flock to Hyde Park for the City2Surf, the most popular annual charity fun run in town. The 14km course takes participants from the city to Bondi Beach, with the notorious 'Heartbreak Hill' providing an extra challenge along the way.

Personally, it'll be my first time participating (strictly walking only). I know what I plan on packing, but I also know that it'll be different from what the runners need to bring along. So I asked four members of my team who are much more ambitious when it comes to tackling the course.

We've got recommendations from marathon-runner Marc, park-runner Sindy, half-marathoner Emily, and regular runner Simon.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Shorts, with pockets

Best for: Everyone!

Sindy, Emily and Simon all noted how essential it is to have shorts with pockets.

"It feels so obvious – but shorts with pockets are a must. You won't believe how many women's shorts are available that have no pockets – it's ridiculous," Sindy shared.

Simon also suggests shorts with pockets for your keys, to keep them from "flailing around in your belt bag".

"I don't like wearing a running belt, so I always run in shorts with pockets. These are my go-tos," says Emily of this Lorna Jane pair.

Lorna Jane Amy Phone Pocket Tech Bike Shorts

$90 here

My personal go-to, these shorts sit very securely and have twin drop-pockets for storage space. They also have a buttery-soft feel to them.

CRZ Yoga Naked Feeling Sports Shorts

Just $28.90 here

For the men, Nike is always a safe bet when it comes to activewear. These have dual side pockets and a hook-and-loop back pocket.

Nike Dri-FIT Challenger 5" Brief-Lined Shorts

Get yours for $50

Known for their high-quality exercise gear, Lululemon is another brand you can trust. These lime green shorts feature pockets on the mesh lining, which are accessible via the outer shell.

Lululemon Fast and Free Lined 5" Running Shorts

Yours for $99

Best for: The walkers

As a walker, I'll be taking my Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag for the City2Surf. For its size, it fits a surprising amount of stuff. I'll be packing my water bottle (500mL), sunscreen, keys, phone and glasses inside.

Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Just $24.90 on Uniqlo

Best for: The runners

If you're running, something like the Uniqlo bag will bang against you as you move. You need a running belt to pack your essentials, which can be adjusted to stay in place rather than move around on the body.

One of our resident runners, Marc, says a running belt is excellent for "gels, keys or your phone. Ideally, get one with two zip compartments".

Lululemon Fast and Free Running Belt

$49 here

Marc's tip is actually to forego headphones unless they're a particular type.

"Ditch the headphones for an event like City2Surf – unless they are bone conduction or open-ear. They can be dangerous, and you also miss out on the atmosphere."

This Shokz set uses bone conduction to transmit music, so your ears aren't blocked or covered. This allows you to stay situationally aware, as you need to be in a marathon or race. You can check out Marc's review here.

Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Sports Headphones

$219 on Amazon

Best for: Everyone!

Protecting your eyes against the sun is essential if you're going to be outside for a 14km walk or run. This recommendation also comes from Marc.

"You need running sunglasses that won't slip off, and you won't worry too much if you lose them. I always wear Goodr ones," he says.

This Goodr pair are polarised for eye protection, but don't cost anywhere near as much as some of the other sporty options on the market (Oakley, we're looking at you). If you lose them, it won't be great, but it's better than losing a pair worth hundreds more.

Goodr The OG Polarised Sports Sunglasses

Now $39.99

Best for: Everyone!

According to Marc, "proper running socks are worth their weight in gold for comfort for any distance over 10k". Our tip is to make sure you've run or walked a fair distance in the socks you plan to wear before committing to them for the day.

LSKD Fast Performance Quarter Socks

Yours for $15

Best for: Anyone in rainy weather

A small, waterproof bag for your phone and other essentials is another good-to-have in case the rain comes on.

Decathlon Dry Bag IPX6 with Visibility Window

Get it for $34.99

Best for: Anyone in rainy weather

The forecast for Sunday is currently looking a bit wet, so a lightweight jacket you can keep tied around your waist will be helpful. This one comes endorsed by Emily:

"I just got this jacket and am loving it for rainy days."

Asics Road Packable Jacket

$150 on Asics

READ MORE: New to running? Here's a simple guide to help you sort through the endless options when it comes to equipment