What to take on a bike trip: a list of essential items
Today, bike trips are a new trend that has conquered Ukraine. Traveling on a two-wheeled iron horse is cool and good for your health. However, for the trip to go well, you must take some things that will help you on your journey.
Bikerist.com has compiled a list of 7 things you will need on a bike trip.
Tent
One of the most important things is that the tent should be waterproof. It is also important that it has two awnings, Duralumin arcs, and reliable guy lines. You don’t have to buy it—you can rent it.
Citeste si:
Clothes
From clothes, it is better to take two types of things in the set for a long bike trip: for riding and rest. You will need several sets of underwear, a warm sweater, a waterproof jacket, and a spare pair of shoes in case the first one gets wet or torn. A baseball cap will help protect you from the sun, and a bandana will protect you from mosquitoes and ticks in the forest.
Sleeping bag and mattress
Sleeping on the bare ground is a dubious pleasure. Consider the thickness of the mattress: the colder the weather, the thicker it should be.
Food
For hiking conditions, you must take food for one or two days. Experienced riders recommend cereals (buckwheat and oatmeal) and pasta made from durum wheat, stewed meat in tins, and sweets to restore carbohydrates, such as dried fruits or condensed milk. You need to take with you exactly as much water as will last until you can replenish its reserves.
Hygiene products
Depending on the length of the trip and the conditions, you need to take a toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, shampoo bags, and wet wipes with you. A roll of plastic garbage bags where you can hide things during the rain would not be superfluous.
First aid kit
It should contain a bandage, hydrogen peroxide, a plaster, painkiller tablets, and activated carbon. The first aid kit should be wrapped in a bag to prevent it from getting wet or dirty, or you can buy a water-repellent version.
Repair kit
A set of tools for repairing a bicycle on the road is a must-have item, without which the entire trip risks falling through. A flat tire happens often during a trip, so you should have glue, patches, a spare tube, and tools to change it. Don’t forget a compact pump that attaches to the frame. Attach several spare spokes to the frame with insulating tape.
Take an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, chain oil, spare nuts, a folding set of Allen keys, or a multi-tool for simple breakdowns.
These things will make your bike trip much easier.
Additional important tips for your bike trip:
Apart from the basic items, it is highly recommended to prepare a few lightweight emergency supplies. A small roll of duct tape, cable ties, and a universal knife can solve many unexpected problems on the road. If your panniers rip or any equipment breaks, duct tape can be a real lifesaver.
Moreover, consider packing a simple set of maps or downloading offline GPS maps on your phone. While mobile networks are quite reliable in many areas, there can still be places with poor coverage, especially if your route takes you through forests, hills, or remote trails.
If you plan a long-distance bike tour, solar-powered chargers can also be a great investment. They allow you to recharge your gadgets during sunny breaks without relying on public places for electricity.
Another important detail is your safety. Always wear a helmet and have a high-visibility vest or reflective gear, especially if your route will cross highways or involve evening rides. Even a compact emergency whistle attached to your backpack can be useful in case you need to draw attention quickly.
Lastly, a lightweight rain cover for yourself and your gear can make a significant difference if you suddenly get caught in bad weather. Dry clothes and sleeping gear will not only preserve your comfort but also prevent hypothermia on longer trips.
Proper preparation ensures that your bike trip becomes a true adventure full of positive emotions, beautiful landscapes, and vivid memories, without unnecessary worries about unforeseen problems.
