Answer
Bike helmet, spare tubes, wetsuit if legal, goggles, race belt, and transition mat essentials beat renting at the last minute. Salt air corrodes chains—lube after beach-adjacent training rides. Mark gear with name and wave number; transition rows look identical.
Sources: Visit Ocean City · Rev3 Back Bay
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
