Bikepacking

Bikepacking merges the thrill of cycling with the adventure of camping, allowing you to explore vast landscapes with everything you need on two wheels. To make sure you’re fully prepared, here’s a comprehensive list of essential bikepacking gear.

1. Bike and Accessories
Bike: Choose a sturdy bike designed for long-distance touring, with reliable components and comfortable geometry. Mountain bikes or gravel bikes are popular choices.

Bike Bags: Invest in durable, waterproof bikepacking bags such as frame bags, handlebar bags, saddle bags, and panniers to efficiently distribute your load.

Lights: Powerful front and rear lights are crucial for visibility and safety, especially if you’re riding at dawn, dusk, or night.

Tools and Spares: Carry a multi-tool, spare tubes, tire levers, a pump or CO2 inflator, and a patch kit. A chain breaker and extra chain links can be lifesavers.

2. Shelter and Sleeping Gear
Tent or Bivvy: A lightweight tent or bivvy sack provides shelter without adding too much weight. Consider options that pack down small.

Sleeping Bag: Opt for a compact, lightweight sleeping bag suitable for the temperatures you’ll encounter.

Sleeping Pad: A lightweight, inflatable sleeping pad offers comfort and insulation from the ground.

Pillow: A small, inflatable pillow or a stuff sack filled with clothes can add comfort to your sleep setup.

3. Cooking and Food Supplies
Camp Stove: A compact, lightweight camp stove or backpacking stove is essential for cooking meals and boiling water.

Cookware: Lightweight pots, pans, and utensils made from materials like titanium or aluminium are perfect for bikepacking.

Food Storage: Use lightweight containers or resealable bags to store food securely.

Water Filtration: A portable water filter or purification tablets ensure you have safe drinking water on the go.

4. Clothing and Footwear
Cycling Apparel: Wear moisture-wicking, quick-drying clothing designed for cycling. Bib shorts, jerseys, and padded gloves enhance comfort.

Layers: Pack versatile layers including a base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Footwear: Cycling shoes compatible with your pedals, along with comfortable socks, are essential for long rides.

5. Safety and Navigation
Helmet: A well-fitting, certified helmet is non-negotiable for safety.

First Aid Kit: A compact, well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and personal medications.

Navigation Tools: A GPS device or smartphone with offline maps, a detailed map, and a compass. A power bank to keep your devices charged is also crucial.

Multi-tool: A versatile multi-tool for various repairs and adjustments on the go.

Lock: A lightweight, sturdy lock to secure your bike when needed.

6. Miscellaneous Essentials
Backpack or Hydration Pack: A small backpack or hydration pack for additional storage and easy access to water.

Hydration: Carry sufficient water bottles or a hydration system to stay hydrated during your ride.

Fire Starters: Waterproof matches, a lighter, and fire starter sticks or cubes for building a campfire.

Personal Hygiene: Biodegradable soap, a small towel, toothbrush, and other personal care items to stay clean on the trail.

With these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your bikepacking adventure. Adjust your gear based on the specifics of your trip, such as climate and terrain. Happy bikepacking!