5 Common Bikepacking Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Bikepacking offers a fun way to explore the outdoors. But if you haven’t done a lot of bikepacking, small mistakes can ruin your trip. These bikepacking tips will help you stay safe, pack smarter and enjoy your experience.

1. Mistake 1. Relying Too Much on Electronic Devices
2. Mistake 2. Overpacking Your Gear
3. Mistake 3. Underestimating Route Challenges
4. Mistake 4. Ignoring Physical Mental Limits
5. Mistake 5. Skipping Pre-Trip Testing

Mistake 1. Relying Too Much on Electronic Devices

What Goes Wrong

A common bikepacking mistake is to rely too heavily on electronic equipment, such as GPS. At any time, these systems can fail or run out of battery, leaving you stranded. Not only do you end up being lost, but there’s also a mental drain to deal with.

Electronic devices have made bikepacking more fun and easier to navigate. However, they can’t be your sole guide when heading out. You should always have a backup plan, just in case the inevitable happens.

Analog Backups to Save the Day

• Bring an extra battery or portable charger
• Carry a paper map of the area and a compass
• Learn basic navigation skills

Mistake 2. Overpacking Your Gear

Why It’s a Problem

Overpacking may seem like the safe route to take, but it leads to additional weight. With every extra pound you bring along, you need to pedal harder. The extra weight is bound to slow you down on your adventure.

In the end, you may find that a lot of the equipment you pack isn't necessary at all. By lightening your load, you can focus more easily on the ride ahead.

How to Fix It

• Make a packing list and stick to it
• Choose multi-use items
  
• When possible, pick lightweight variations of equipment
• Do a test excursion with the gear to see what’s needed

Pro Tips: Consider the HeyBike ALPHA, which features a rugged rear rack with a 400-lb payload capacity, designed to carry essentials across rough terrain.

Mistake 3. Underestimating Route Challenges

The Consequences

Some trails look simple on a map but are tougher than expected. Steep hills, rocky paths and weather can slow you down. With every challenge you meet, time for fun and excitement is potentially reduced.

These obstacles can also drain your energy and lead to frustration. While you can’t foresee every possible surprise you may encounter, there are some ways to plan ahead for the unknown.

Smart Fixes

• Research the route ahead of time, looking at elevation and terrain
• Read road trip reports from other adventurers
• Watch recent YouTube videos from other riders
• Plan extra time into the adventure in case it becomes harder than expected

Mistake 4. Ignoring Physical & Mental Limits

The Crash-and-Burn Effect

It’s common for athletes to push too hard until exhaustion or injury sets in. This crash-and-burn effect occurs when you ignore physical limits and push your body until it breaks down.

Bikepacking is as much about enjoyment as it is the endurance, so it is crucial that you listen to your body.

After all, bikepacking should be seen as a marathon, not a race. Pacing yourself is the way you finish strong and safely.

Sustainable Strategies

• Take regular breaks to recover
• Stay hydrated
• Eat small, balanced meals or snacks throughout the ride
• Pace yourself to avoid burnout
• Carry only the gear that’s needed to reduce strain on your body
• Use a pedal-assisted bike for tougher climbs and to save energy on long rides

FURTHER READING: Complete Guide on Exploring Bikepacking with Ebikes

Mistake 5. Skipping Pre-Trip Testing

Why It’s a Disaster Waiting to Happen

Not testing out your gear before a trip leads to unnecessary surprises on the trail. You may discover that the gear isn’t comfortable or doesn’t fit your needs. While it can seem like added time you don’t have, it’s essential to make room in your schedule for a pre-trip test.

You don’t have to embark on an entire bikepacking adventure to test your gear. Work it into your everyday schedule and give everything a trial run. Remember to leave time to replace items if they don’t work out.

The Foolproof Checklist

• Test the bike out on various terrains before the trip
• Check tire pressure and brakes before bikepacking
• Operate all of the equipment ahead of time, such as the battery charger, GPS and lights
• Double-check your packing list to ensure you have everything that’s needed
• Wear-test your clothing for comfort across extended rides
• Plan out the route ahead of time, paying close attention to rest stops and water sources

Conclusion

Bikepacking is a rewarding way to spend more time outdoors. Yet lack of preparation and attention can turn the adventure into a nightmare. By following our simple bikepacking tips, you avoid the most common mistakes and have a chance for a smoother ride.

Most of it comes down to better planning. Don’t overpack, test out your gear, and prepare for the route. While you are on the trip, make sure you know your limits and avoid relying heavily on electronics.

By staying prepared and mindful of what’s going on, you set yourself up for a successful trip. All that’s left to do is enjoy the freedom that bikepacking brings.