The ultimate lightweight bikepacking gear list

Bike Gear

The most important part of the backpacking kit is the bike since you are going to tour with it. Currently, the most popular bikes used for these kinds of journeys are gravel models, since you can approach almost every type of terrain with them but ideally, you can use any type of bike as long as it can mount racks and/or storage bags. The decision about which type of bike to pick depends also on the destination and the roads you are planning to ride onto.

A helmet is an essential part of the bike packing list, as it offers you protection in case of accidents and even from the sun.

Headlights and taillights are very important not just if you are thinking about cycling even during evenings or nights, but also because you will be more visible to cars.

A lightweight lock should also be taken with you because it allows you to rest and move further without worrying about your bike’s whereabouts.

Then, there are different bike bag solutions for handlebars, saddles, forks and frames as well as many sizes with a range of packing volumes, depending on your necessities, how long your journey is going to be and how much weight you are willing to carry with you.

Do not forget bike shoes, which can be with or without clips, depending on your expertise and how you feel more comfortable. Shoes with a clip are better on rough terrains since you are less likely to slip off as you cycle and the movements are more fluent but if you do not have experience with them, you could feel less confident.

CLOTHING

Clothing is an important part of your bike trip packing list, but it can vary a lot depending on the duration of your journey and the usual weather of the period/place you chose. Check the forecasts and then take Jerseys and bike shorts with you. They must be comfortable and breathable since supposedly you are going to ride for many hours. At least a change of these items should also be included. Sports bras, socks, rain and wind jacket, warm base layers, bandana, gloves and leg/arm warmers should fill the list.

For the spare time instead, no objective list can be made and you should decide depending on your necessities and your habits. Just remember that the more you will carry with you, the more you will potentially struggle because of the weight, so carry just the minimum necessary.

BIKE REPAIR TOOLS

Along the way most probably something will go wrong so it is compulsory to add to your lightweight packing list a service kit to fix, adjust and overcome the common mechanicals such as flat tyres or chain issues. Consider also that the further you distance yourself from cities and shops, the more you will need to carry with you. Some basic equipment to face the most common mechanicals though should comprehend spare Inner tubes, puncture repair kit, pump or co2 inflator, tyre levers, cycling multi-tool, chain link, lubricant and tape.

ELECTRONICS

Years ago, it would have been much harder to travel in this way but with all the current technology, there are not many objects that are fundamental to include in your bike packing kit in order to navigate properly and avoid getting lost. A smartphone through different apps and/or a GPS bike computer are great tools where you can save the route and can follow the indications, instead of reading the paper maps, with their descriptions. It is always a good idea though, to have them with you since you never know if you run out of battery or end up in a place where there is no signal at all. Remember to take the chargers and a power bank with you.

FIRST-AID SUPPLIES

Always because of the weight, not too many medications should be taken with, unless you got prescriptions for them. A small first aid kit with disinfectant, plasters and bandages is perfect and will do the job. Painkillers could also be useful, after many days of long rides. Last, do not forget to include in the package the medical information and emergency contacts card.

TOILETRIES

Since the storage is limited, just the necessary hygiene goods should be included in the lightweight packing list. To be as light-ish as possible, carry with your toothpaste, toothbrush, multi-use shampoo, multi-use napkins, deodorant, chamois cream, sun cream, hand sanitiser and a microfiber towel.

“EXTRA EQUIPMENT”

Each one of us is different and so are the personal needs and the extras that we have absolutely to take with us during the journey. There are a few things though, that everyone should include in the bike-packing kit, such as documents, cash and credit card, pen and paper, phone holder, snacks, meals, water, mineral supplements, extra batteries, sunglasses, headlamps and a survival blanket, too.

Since you will carry a few bags with you, you should adopt some precautions while riding because the asset of your bike is not going to be as central and stable as before: decrease the speed, allow longer stopping distances, add a bit more air than usual to your tyres and ride in an easier gear, considering that you are heavier and so the effort is bigger.

In conclusion, the ultimate bikebacking list has to be of reduced weight and low bulk, because the success of the journey depends partially on it! With the experience comes the knowledge of what works for you and what does not.

Taking too much stuff with you could be quite comfortable on one hand, since you will have literally everything at your disposal, but on the other hand, the weight and consequently the effort will be inhuman and you won’t enjoy the ride at all.

The aim of preparing the perfect bike trip packing kit is to travel as lightly as possible and safely. You will be surprised to realize how little you do need in order to get by while really enjoying the journey.

Bikepacking and carrying just the right number of items represents a different way of living your bike’s passion, intended as a desire for discoveries, of travelling, cycling and feeling the thrill of the adventure.

So, prepare your backpacking list, get ready and go! Your trip will most definitely be something worth it, to remember and to keep always in your heart!

If you travel with FunActive TOURS, you must know that our rental bikes come equipped with:

• A high-quality saddle bag from the manufacturer VAUDE (for the bike): The waterproof universal bag can be adjusted to different sizes thanks to the roll-top closure and can be sealed tightly. With the symmetrical rear plate, it can be mounted on the left or right side.

 

• A handlebar bag, also from VAUDE (for gear): The waterproof handlebar bag is perfect for quickly accessing items. Practical details include a removable map pocket, KlickFix attachment, and shoulder strap.

 

• Repair tool kit (for gear): Contains the necessary tools for important repairs such as changing a tube, allowing you to handle them yourself.

 

• A  spare inner tube (for gear)

 

• Air pump (for gear)

 

• Bike computer (for the bike): Easy to use, provides quick access to essential data such as total distance, partial distance, current speed, average speed, and time.

 

• Combination lock (for gear) for secure bike storage.

With the FunActive TOUR bike pack, you’re ready to embark on your cycling adventure hassle-free. Experience the joy of exploring new horizons while having all the necessary tools and accessories right at your fingertips. Get ready to pedal away and create memories that will last a lifetime!