Bikepacking has grown recently, and it’s easy to see why. It’s going on an adventure with your bicycle, being free of any restrictions, travelling fast and light, and taking as little equipment as you need. Exploring and visiting places you wouldn’t even have thought about… Enjoying long single-tracks and having fun on the trails. You can perfectly plan your tour or go out and see where your wheels will take you. These are some of the reasons bike-packing speaks to the imagination of many.

The beauty of it lies in its simplicity: you get on the bike you currently own and go out exploring. However, our bike of choice is gravel, as they will offer the most comfort and space to carry gear.

Upgraded Internal Routing X-Gravel Bike

Three main factors that will determine the kit you’ll need to take on your adventure:

• Weather
• Where you’re riding
• Distance and time travelled: a 2-day trip doesn’t need the same equipment as a 3-week holiday

In this article we will give you some tips for your first bikepacking trip and what items to bring along your journey.

 Camping and cooking kit

Unless you have foreseen some accommodations for the night, you’ll likely need to bring some shelter for the night. A tent is the most logical option, but most tents are big, bulky and heavy. Investing in a modern lightweight tent is our first recommendation if you go on multiple bike-packing trips. Other (cheaper) options are a tarp or a bivvy vag, but only if conditions allow it.

A sleeping bag is a must unless you live in a warm climate. For some more sleeping comfort, we suggest bringing a camping mattress.

A fuel cell and an aluminium mug will be your best friend for all who need their morning brew. Even if you go camping somewhere remote, a small pot can provide a nice warm meal.

Most importantly, don’t forget to bring water; make sure you can refill your water bottles on your route. And if you know you’ll be riding in a deserted area, ensure you can carry enough water.

 Tools and spares

A mechanical issue is always bound to happen when going out on big adventures, going through remote and rugged terrain. Be prepared with all the essentials for your trip. We put together a tool kit that will cover the basics in case you ever suffer a mechanical far from civilization.

First, a good multitool, preferably with a chain breaker, is a must. Try to buy a multitool with a 4mm, 5mm, 6mm and 8mm hex key, preferably even a torx 25 key. This ensures you’ll be able to undo most bolts on your bike.

For riders on a tubeless setup, you’ll need to bring tubeless plugs in case of a flat tire. But not all punctures are fixable with a plug. Bring a spare tube, some tire levers, and a small pump or even a CO2 cartridge. What’s the point of changing your tube if you can’t inflate it?

Lastly, there are some small, lightweight parts to take along that can help you out in a pinch:

Strap a chain link to your brake hose with electrical tape in case your chain snaps.

Bring an extra set of brake pads if you’re on very rowdy and steep terrain.

A spare mech hanger is always a good idea, and bring some zip ties along. There are many uses for a zip tie on a bike to get you out of a sticky situation.

Of course, bike preparation is invaluable before going on a trip; check your bike from top to bottom. Grease what needs to be greased, replace what you think needs to be replaced, and ensure your bike is in prime condition before starting any adventure.

 Bags

You’ll need something to carry and store all the items mentioned above

Many companies make bikepacking-specific bags (handlebar roll, frame, and seat bags). These bags are designed to fit your bike well and will mostly have some extra customization and adjustability options like straps and tags or even be modular… But these bags can be quite expensive. Use some dry bags and straps if you want to go on your first trip without breaking the bank.

There is also the possibility to carry a backpack, although we do not recommend riding with one. Try to ride as light as possible. But in some cases, it has its purpose:

• Storing some extra equipment.
• Bringing extra clothes.
• Carrying camera equipment or even if you don’t have any bikepacking bags yet.

 Some essentials and extras not to forget

We have already given you a lot of items to bring along on your trip, but there are still a couple of essentials to put on your packing list to make your life a bit easier and sometimes even safer.

The first item is lights; always bring lights. You’ll need bike lights when riding at night for visibility and safety on busy roads. It’s best to put a light on your handlebar and a helmet light for best visibility. Suppose you are camping in the middle of nowhere. A powerful head torch will make it easier for you. You’ll be able to cook, set up your campsite, and inspect your bike hands-free with both hands.

Next is a power bank and USB cables. Again, when wild camping, access to electricity and chargers will be limited. A battery pack is essential to power up your devices (cell phone, camera, lights,…).

If you’re doing an overnighter, bring some spare clothes, but only take what is necessary for your ride:

• A puffer coat
• Lightweight hiking trousers
• Long sleeve tops
• Extra footwear for the evening
• A rain jacket
• Arm and knee warmers
• Spare socks

Also, put a small med kit in one of your bags. Slashing your arms or legs open on some thorns is not uncommon. And lastly, don’t forget your toiletries, toothbrush, and toothpaste!

If you still have space left in your bags, fill it with food. Certainly, you can never have enough food if you’re in for a very long ride.

Now, go out and enjoy your first bikepacking trip and take your time. Enjoy the ride and the views. It isn’t necessary to invest in the fancy kit immediately; start with what you already own and build up from there. Remember: Pack light; you only need the essential things.