Are you planning a weekend cycling trip that lasts for two or three days but you are not sure what you need to bring? Don’t worry! We have created a packing list just for you!
When setting out for a journey that lasts more than one day, you need to do some preparation beforehand in order for you to simply enjoy your trip once it starts.
Below is a list of 10 items we recommend you bring with you on your next cycling adventure.
If you are packing light you might be able to fit everything you need into a backpack. A is a Camelbak backpack. These backpacks not only have space, useful pockets, and reflect but they also come with a large water reservoir. That way you can easily stay hydrated on the go!
You will need a 20-30 liter backpack in order to have enough space for all your food, essentials, and extra clothing. A good choice is the Camelbak Sequoia hydration pack.
The Sequoia hydration pack can handle up to 24 liters of cargo and has a three liters water reservoir. Plenty of space and water to keep you going. Perfect as an overnight bag or as a day-hike backpack. It has pockets both outside and inside, keeping your essentials safe. In addition, the pack has a breathable back panel for great ventilation.
If you are planning on bringing more cargo, we recommend getting bike panniers. These are attached to the rear bike frame and can carry up to 40 liters of cargo. This will fit extra water, food, clothing, and a sleeping bag.
If you need even more space, for example for all your camping gear, then attach a Thule bike trailer to the back of your bicycle. Thule trailers have plenty of space and can carry up to 34 kg of equipment.
Stay safe from the sun! Bring Sunscreen and apply plenty and often.
Nothing worse than getting blinded by the sun when cycling. We recommend finding a good pair of cycling sunglasses that has that will protect your eyes from the sun, sit securely on your nose even when sweating and that offer added contrasts for the best experience on the road. A good choice is a pair from 100% or Shimano’s sunglass range.
Both collections offer good-quality bike sunglasses that will enhance contrasts while protecting your eyes from the sun.
How are you going to navigate to your destination? Two ways to do that. Either use your phone or a GPS.
If you are using your phone as navigation, we recommend getting a handlebar phone mount. This will make it so much easier for you to see where you are going and also easier to access when your phone is mounted right in front of you.
Another option is a GPS bike compute unit. If you are going off the grid without an internet connection we definitely recommend getting a GPS device.
Bring with you 1-2 water bottles, and always refill them when you have the option. It is important to always stay hydrated!
Pack nutritious food and snacks for the road. Even if you are planning to stay at a hotel and eat dinner there, we still recommend having some energy bars stored in your backpack for emergencies and when the sugar levels are low.
Always be prepared. Accidents and small scraps can happen when on a bicycle adventure. Here are some of the things your first aid kit should contain bandages, alcohol swabs, dressing strips, gauze swabs, dressing pads, disposable gloves, safety pins, and tweezers.
A full list of items you should bring is here.
Here are also some Cycling Safety Tips you should be aware of before hitting the road.
In case you run low on tyre air or get a flat tyre, you should always bring a bike pump with you when biking. A hand pump is small enough to easily fit in your backpack.
Bike lights are very important to have when going on long-distance rides. The front light is there to light up the road ahead so you can see where you are going in that dark or during low light. While the rear light will alert and make you visible to other vehicles, which is crucial.
Where are you going to sleep? Are you staying in a hotel or camping? After riding all day, you will be exhausted and just want to take a shower and fall asleep. So booking accommodations before you leave is ideal.
If you plan on staying overnight at a campaign site, you will need to bring more gear like a tent, a sleeping bag, food, and clothes to keep you warm during the night.
Before you start packing, a great tip is to first write a checklist of everything you will need. This will make it much easier when you start packing, and it will also ensure you don’t forget anything important.