Gear Up: The Complete Bikepacking Checklist

Are you new to bikepacking? This comprehensive guide will help you get started with the right bikepacking gear and equipment. Whether you're planning a short ride or a long trip, we’ve made it easy for beginners to pack smart and stay safe.

Pre-Trip Planning

Before you start packing, take time to plan out your route. Look at local maps and check the weather. It’s also good to figure out how far you plan to ride each day.

Next, consider where you’ll be sleeping. You may need to book hostels or pay for the campsites in advance. Knowing this can also help you pack the right bikepacking equipment.

Bike touring is more enjoyable when you’re prepared. Plan for your water stops, food breaks and safe places to stop for a quick rest. Remember to tell someone where you’re going and when to expect you back.

Also, be sure to avoid common bikepacking mistakes.

Essential Bikepacking Gear Checklist

Packing the right bikepacking gear makes your trip safer and more enjoyable. In this section, we’ll cover everything beginners need: your bike, bags, shelter, food and cooking gear, water, clothing, footwear, repair kits, tools, electronics, navigation, hygiene, toiletries and safety items for unexpected emergencies.

Let’s break it down, one topic at a time.

Bike & Bags

To guarantee a smooth ride, you need the right bike and bags. Here are some considerations.

• Bike selection: Choose a bike that’s made for the terrain you are riding on. An Ebike with strong, durable tires and upgraded suspension can handle rough terrain, similar to a mountain bike.
• Frame bags: Fitting in the bike frame, these bags hold heavy items closer to the center of the bike for improved balance.
• Handlebar bags: These bags are great for bulky yet light gear, like a tent or sleeping pad.
• Saddle bags: Attaching under the seat, you can store your clothing or food in these bags.
• Top tube bags: These small bags hold snacks, your phone or a map. 
  In case you get caught in bad weather, you want to choose a waterproof bike and bags to protect your gear.

Shelter & Sleeping

To fully enjoy the adventure, you want to get a good night’s sleep. The right shelter is chosen based on the weather, your comfort needs, and the environment.

Shelter options

• Tent: Ultralight tents protect you from the elements without adding more weight. They usually contain five components: a tent body, poles, stakes, a ground sheet and a rain fly.
• Fast fly setup: A lightweight version of a tent, this setup uses a rain fly, a ground sheet and poles. It’s faster to set up but doesn’t provide as much protection.
• Tarp: This simple option is great if the bugs aren’t bad and the weather is good. A tarp can be set up in multiple configurations to provide shelter.
• Hammock: Solo riders like this option in forested areas. Just make sure there will be trees and consider packing an underquilt for more warmth.
• Bivvy bag: This tiny shelter is lightweight and water-resistant. It’s a popular option for minimalists or racers.

Sleeping gear

• Sleeping bag: Pick a bag that’s rated for the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. Synthetic bags dry fast, but down bags are more compact.
  
• Quilt: A lighter option than a typical sleeping bag, the quilt can be packed with a good sleeping pad.
• Sleeping pad: Whether it is inflatable or has foam, the pad provides minimal protection from the elements. Check the R-value to ensure it keeps you warm on the cold ground.
• Sleeping bag liner: This optional piece of equipment can add more warmth to your bag.
• Pillow: If you choose to take a pillow, an inflatable option shouldn’t take up much room.

Some bikers prefer just to use a bag of clothing under their head to avoid packing more. 
It’s best to try out the gear before you head out on the trail. Ensuring everything is comfortable beforehand will save you a lot of headache while bikepacking.

Food & Cooking

You need to pack enough food for the whole trip, remembering that you will need more calories than normal. Pick foods that are lightweight and easy to cook. You must also consider the camp kitchen items you choose.

• Stove: You want a lightweight stove that also heats up quickly. Otherwise, your trip could take a lot longer because of extended rest stops for meals.
• Fuel: Remember to choose the right fuel for your stove. It may use petrol, diesel, alcohol, or isobutane.
• Cooking pot: A pot measuring between 0.7 and 1.5 liters tends to be a good choice. Picking a titanium pot adds strength, but doesn’t increase the weight.
  
• Mug: You can use a mug for beverages and as a small pot if you want to save space.
  
• Spork: Combining the spoon and fork into one item ensures you have less to pack. 
  
• Lighter: You will need a way to start the flame for the stove.
  
• Salt and pepper: Don't forget to add these seasonings to improve food taste.
  
• Coffee: If you are accustomed to having coffee in the morning, you have several options. You can choose an Aeropress, instant coffee, or a pour-over system.

Try out some meals at home before the trip. Doing this will ensure you actually like the meals you'll be cooking, and will get you better accustomed with the cooking system before it is used on the trip

Water & Hydration

You need to think ahead about how to stay hydrated, considering that the trip could take longer than planned. On average, you need about 3-4 liters per day, but that could be more in hot, intense climates. Plan all of your water stops ahead and consider your gear.

• Water bottles: Use a bottle that fits well on the bike.
  
• Water bladder: A soft bag can be used to hold water. You may be able to store it in the frame bag or your pack.
• Bottle cages: Attach special cages to the frame if you need more bottle space.
• Water filter: Use a system that removes dirt and bacteria from local water sources.
• Purification tablets: These small and lightweight tablets are great to use in an emergency.
• Steripen: If you are bikepacking abroad, you may want this small UV tool that quickly kills viruses and bacteria.

As a rule of thumb, you should carry more water than you think you need. You never know when that next water source may turn out to be inaccessible or dried up.

Clothing & Footwear

If you want to remain comfortable, you need the right clothing. Stick to items that are lightweight and quick-drying.

• Clothing to wear: Consider wearing riding shorts, a pair of underwear, a wool t-shirt or jersey, wool socks, a helmet, flat-pedal shoes, sunglasses and cycling gloves.
• Spare clothing: Pack spare wool socks, a t-shirt, shorts or lightweight pants, underwear, a long-sleeve top, lightweight rain gear, leggings and anything you want to sleep in.
• Extras: Depending on how much room you have, you may also pack a hat, camp shoes or sandals and down pants. It may also help to have a bandana, down booties or winter gloves.

Keep your clothing simple and functional. You want to stay dry and ready for any weather that comes your way.

Repair & Tools

Because you never know when you will need to fix something, consider packing some of this gear.

• Essential equipment: Everyone should have a multi-tool or leatherman-type tool. It’s also good to have duct tape and zip ties.
• Optional equipment: Depending on the trip, you may also want a chain breaker, chain lube and a pipe clamp. A shock pump and spare parts may also be helpful.
• Tire repair: With a tubeless setup, you may want a mini-pump, tire plugs, a spare tube, extra sealant and a tire lever. Super glue and a patch kit are also handy.

It’s a fine line between what’s needed and what may be too much extra weight. Carefully evaluate what’s important for your trip based on where you will be biking.

Electronics & Navigation

While relying on too many electronics can be a common bikepacking mistakes, you want to pack some essentials.

• Phone: You will need your phone for an emergency and to stay in contact with loved ones.
• GPS navigation device: You can also use your phone for this purpose.
• Charging equipment: To keep your electronics charged, make sure you have the cables and charger compatible with your devices.
• Headlamp: For better visibility at night, choose a headlamp with a high lumen rating.
  Pack the electronics wisely to ensure they don’t get broken on rough terrain.

Hygiene & Toiletries

You want to keep clean and fresh, even after all those hours of biking. Here are some essentials to pack.

• Dental care: Pack your toothbrush, toothpaste and floss.
• Toilet paper: Unscented is necessary, especially if you are in bear territory. Don’t forget the trowel for digging holes.
• Personal care items: Pack sunscreen, lip balm and soap. You will also want earplugs if you have trouble sleeping in noisy areas.

While you aren’t trying to win a beauty contest, these essentials can make the trek more enjoyable.

Safety & Emergency

Emergencies happen when you least expect them. With this gear, you are more prepared.

• Backup maps: There may be times when navigation is unavailable, so a paper map can save your life.
• Bell or emergency whistle: A bell can help to alert others in dangerous situations.
• Bear line and bag: Use the hang method when biking in bear areas.
• Bear spray: You can never be too prepared to encounter bears.
• Orange vest: Wear bright colors when biking during hunting season.
• First aid kit: Carry a kit with an irrigation syringe, prep pads, tweezers, bandages, a roll of gauze, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen and Benadryl.

The more equipment you can carry, the more peace of mind you will achieve.

Final Thoughts

Bikepacking is all about freedom and adventure, but it’s good to be prepared. With the right gear and a well-mapped-out plan, even beginners can enjoy the ride. Gear up, get out there, and enjoy the journey!