After learning the hard way more times than I can remember from getting to the trailhead only to realize I have forgotten something really important (like trail shoes - yes, this happens), I finally got smart and started my car closet. Basically I have a small plastic tote that stays in the back of my car all the time with a few running essentials. Believe me, it has saved me a few times during a dumb moment or even for a spur of the moment run. It does mean that you have to invest in double of a few things but I have found it worth the few extra bucks. You don’t have to use a plastic tote, it could be as simple as a bag. Some of the items I keep in my car closet are:

Extra shoes. (I throw a pair of my more worn out shoes in there that wouldn’t hurt a few more miles on them so I don’t have to invest in a brand new pair that will mostly sit unused).
A few energy gels and protein bars.
A few bottles of water.
A handheld hydration bottle. (I prefer a hydration pack but a handheld is inexpensive and easy to justify as an extra item “just in case”).
Extra socks.
Long sleeve shirt.
Extra headlamp.

You get the idea. Tailor your car closet to your specific needs and don’t be left at the trailhead without a pair of shoes ever again!

Tailwinds,
Coach K