Are you soon going on a bicycle trip? Do you want to make sure you don’t forget anything essential? But also not to take anything superfluous? This article is for you! We share all our recommendations, based on our numerous bicycle journeys.
An adventure that needs some preparation
Traveling by bike requires careful consideration of what you’ll pack in your bags. Indeed, you’ll need to take with you, in a limited volume, everything you’ll require during your journey. Of course, it’s possible to find a Decathlon (or another store) locally to supplement your inventory if you realize too late that you’re missing something (the forgetful person I am knows what he’s talking about).
The ideal way to simplify logistics on-site, however, is to pack your bags optimally right from the start.
One list per category
To do this, we recommend creating a list with different equipment categories:
- Bicycle: Here, you’ll find essential accessories for equipping yourself, for transporting your belongings, and repair tools to handle potential breakdowns during your journey.
- Clothing: You’ll find clothing suitable for different seasons and weather conditions.
- Hygiene & Medical: You’ll discover essential items to ensure your well-being and safety during your trip.
- Electronics: You’ll find crucial electronic items to facilitate your travel and communication.
- Administrative: You’ll find the necessary documents for a stress-free trip.
- Leisure: You’ll find some suggestions for things to bring for breaks and evenings.
- (Camping): You’ll find the necessary equipment for camping and outdoor cooking. This is relevant only for those who stay in tents and does not apply to travelers staying in hotels or bed and breakfasts.
If you are traveling with Cyclodyssées and choose a rental bike, a fully equipped bicycle will be delivered to your hotel the day before (or the morning of) your bike departure. Therefore, you can skip point 1 (except for rain protection clothing). Your hotels will also be pre-booked, and you will receive a roadbook and vouchers for a worry-free journey!
Furthermore, please note that we underlined the elements we consider essential. The non-underlined equipment is useful but optional.
1) Bicycle
- Bicycle (check or have it checked to ensure it’s in perfect condition)
- Lock (of good quality)
- Lights (with batteries/charger if there is no dynamo)
- Water bottle(s) and “bottle holder(s)”
- Waterproof rear panniers (requires a rear rack)
- Front handlebar bag (waterproof)
- Smartphone holder (waterproof)
If there’s a chance of rain, we recommend (consider, when choosing the color and model, your visibility!):
- A waterproof jacket
- Waterproof over-pants (this is the best solution in our opinion. A waterproof poncho can also work.)
In case of a breakdown, also prepare:
- A pump
- A puncture repair kit (containing patches, sandpaper, glue, at least 3 tire levers, and if necessary, tools to remove the wheels from the bike)
- A multi-function toolset (including at least Allen keys)
- Other repair materials (spare inner tube, cloth, chain breaker, oil, …)
Note that if your bicycle is well-maintained, the most likely breakdowns (which are still quite rare) are flat tires and derailments. Everything else should be truly exceptional.
2) Clothes
Remember to pack clothing for daytime sports and evening relaxation:
- Underwear and socks
- Pants / Shorts (regular and/or sporty)
- T-shirts (regular and/or sporty)
- Sweaters (light and/or warm)
- Jacket (choose a windproof or warm jacket depending on the climate)
- Pajamas
- Swimsuit and a towel / bath towel
In terms of footwear, contrary to what you might hear, it’s possible to pedal with almost anything on your feet (as long as it’s well-fastened and has a sole). However, we recommend taking:
- Two pairs of shoes (for example, sneakers and sandals) so you can change in the evening. If you plan to do some hiking during the tour, trekking shoes are recommended.
Don’t forget these additional items as well:
- Laundry bag
- Plastic bag for storing wet/dirty clothes or shoes
- Sunglasses
- Cap or hat
3) Hygiene and Medical
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shower gel / shampoo / soap
- Tissues and toilet paper
- Washcloth and a small towel
- Hairbrush / comb
- Sunscreen / after-sun lotion and lip balm
- Sanitary products
- Medications and first aid kit
- Nail clippers
- Adhesive tape / blister pads (Compeed)
- Insect repellent / mosquito repellent
4) Electronics
- Mobile phone (smartphone)
- Phone charger
- External battery (in case you use GPS, the phone can run out of power quickly. An external battery will allow you to charge it on the go)
- Camera
- GPS and tracks
5) Administrative
- Identification card (or Passport)
- Credit card
- Cash
- Insurance
- Vouchers (if applicable)
- Roadbook (with accommodation addresses)
- Emergency numbers
- Driver’s license (if required)
6) Leisure
- Books (novels, travel guides, stories set in the region you’re traveling through, …)
- Headphones
- Board games
- Picnic blanket
7) Camping
- Tent
- Sleeping bag (and optionally a “sleeping bag liner”)
- Inflatable mattress
- Flashlight (headlamp)
- Pillow (inflatable or not)
- A stove and a gas canister (please note that in some places, you may not be able to use this equipment due to fire risks)
- A lighter / matches
- A pot / pan
- Plates, bowls, and lightweight cutlery
- A good knife
- Durable and lightweight cups
- Trash bags
- Thermos
- Water filter (or purifying tablets)
All that’s left is to wish you a great adventure!