Explore our comprehensive bikepacking checklist, featuring everything from panniers to tools, and gear up for an unforgettable cycling adventure!
Bikepacking is a form of cycle travel where the weight and quality of your bikepacking gear and equipment are paramount. Whether your bike is a gravel or mountain bike, choosing the right items can make all the difference between an epic adventure and a two-wheeled cycling nightmare. Whether you need a tent, lamp, food, shoes, helmet, or tools, we've compiled a list of essential bikepacking setup items to pack in your bikepacking bags and panniers, guaranteeing a successful next adventure.
Clothes:
Your selection of clothing for a mountain biking or cycle touring adventure should reflect a wise choice, guaranteeing comfort and protection, whatever the type of weather you encounter.
Jersey : A technical jersey will help regulate your body temperature.
Cycling shoes : A good pair of cycling shoes is essential for power transmission and comfort.
Gloves : Protect your hands with a pair of gloves suitable for gravel or mountain biking.
Shorts : For long distances, quality shorts are essential to avoid chafing. For longer trips, we recommend you buy two pairs of shorts.
Waterproof clothing : bikepacking clothing will keep you dry.
Warm’ down jacket/fleece : Essential for cool nights or foggy mornings.
Reflective waistcoat : Be visible in all circumstances with a lightweight, easy-to-fit reflective waistcoat.
Spare jersey/t-shirt : A spare jersey will keep you cool and allow you to change after a long day's pedaling.
Trousers : Trousers suitable for bikepacking will provide comfort and protection from the elements.
Socks : Technical socks will wick away moisture and keep your feet dry.
Underwear : Choose breathable underwear for optimum comfort.
Shorts : Hard-wearing, comfortable shorts are ideal for long hours in the saddle.
Flip-flops/sneakers : After a day in cycling shoes, there's nothing like relaxing in flip-flops or light trainers.
It's up to you to assemble your own kit based on what you want to bring on your trip, but remember that bikepacking is a minimalist discipline. Generally, your choice of equipment will become more refined over time.
Bivouac:
As the sun sets, your bivouac gear becomes your refuge, so choose suitable panniers to carry your bikepacking items at night, with the emphasis on lightness and compactness.
Torch or headlamp : Essential for all night-time travel!
Ultra-light tent/ Hammock/ Tarp : Depending on your choice, these bivouac options will offer you light shelter for the night.
Mattress : A ground mattress will insulate you from the cold and ensure you get a good night's sleep.
Sleeping bag : Choose one suited to the season, that will keep you warm during nights in the open air.
Cooking:
Food is your fuel, and having the right utensils to hand is essential for preparing invigorating meals after a long day on the road on a bike!
Stove : A compact stove will allow you to prepare hot, comforting meals.
Pots : Lightweight, practical cooking utensils, essential for cooking on the road.
Dehydrated meals : Practical and lightweight, dehydrated meals are a quick way to eat and are perfect for keeping the weight of your equipment under control.
Water bottles (2 to 3 liters) : Stay hydrated by carrying enough water, a vital element for any cyclist. We recommend carrying at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water with you at all times.
Hygiene:
Water and hygiene equipment are essential for staying fresh and ready to pedal, so make sure you include them in your essential luggage list.
Toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap) : Maintain impeccable hygiene even on the road.
Microfiber towel : A lightweight microfiber towel will dry quickly and take up little space in your bags .
Sun cream : Protect your skin from UV rays with sun cream suitable for physical exertion.
Electronics:
Ensure your bikepacking bags contain reliable electronics to light your way and stay connected, paying attention to the volume of your equipments.
Front and rear lights : Mounted on the frame, handlebars, or behind the saddle of your bikes, these are essential for being seen and for seeing your way.
Headlamp : This is one of the versatile tools that will fit neatly into your panniers , and will be just as useful for night-time repairs as for finding your way in the dark.
GPS (+ charger) : Essential for navigation , the GPS will allow you to follow your route without getting lost.
External battery, charger : An external battery is a wise choice for staying connected.
Smartphone : Your multifunctional companion for taking photos or staying in touch in an emergency.
Miscellaneous:
To keep your bikepacking bags organized, it's essential to choose the right tools and bike items, taking into account the volume, weight, and type of luggage you need to take with you, especially if you're planning to ride in the rain.
Repair kit (multi-tool, patches or bits, mini-pump) : A multi-tool repair kit is essential in your travel bag to deal with the unexpected and keep your tires in good condition.
2 inner tubes : Carrying spare tubes in your panniers will save you long hours of walking if your tires are punctured on the road.
Wallet (ID, credit card, cash) : Keep your important documents and means of payment handy for any transactions or checks.
Snacks (bars, gels, and other refreshments) : Snacks are essential to maintain your energy levels throughout your cycling trip. Mini first-aid kit : A compact first-aid kit can be vital in the event of minor accidents.
Anti-theft device : Protect your bike during stops with a lightweight but sturdy anti-theft device.
Helmet : A helmet is essential for your protection; choose one that is comfortable and ventilated.
Goggles : Protect your eyes from the sun and elements with a good pair of glasses suitable for bikepacking.
Distribute your belongings evenly on your bike:
When it comes to placing the various items in your bike bags , there's no single way of arranging them. We will, however, give you the organization that the members of the Inwild team mainly use.
Generally, bivouac gear (tent, sleeping bag, mattress) is placed in the handlebar pannier or the saddlebag of the gravel or mountain bike, to avoid having too much weight on top of the bike. One of the most important principles of bikepacking is to distribute your equipment so that heavy items are at the bottom of the bike, closer to the ground. For example, repair kits, stoves, and water bottles can be placed in the fork bags or in the frame bag.
Food, hygiene products, and other items can also be stored in the frame bag. Jackets, down jackets, and other items of clothing that may be needed during the journey should be easily accessible, so it's a good idea to place them in the saddlebag or handlebar bag so that you can reach them as soon as you open the pannier. This way, for example, you won't get caught in the rain while you're looking for your jacket in the event of a downpour.
Finally, the things you can use while riding without stopping should be accessible from your seat, so they're often stored in a top tube bag. You can put your phone, snacks, papers, etc. in this bag.
With your equipment cleverly distributed in your bags, you're ready for an unforgettable bikepacking adventure! By keeping the essentials close at hand, balancing your loads, and being prepared for every situation, you're ready to take on the trails and discover new horizons by bike.
So, get on your saddle and have a great trip!
