The only thing that could make backpacking more fun is to throw a mountain bike into the mix. Bikepacking, as it's commonly referred to, is a great way to experience nature and cover a lot of ground at the same time. While backpacking gear can be stuffed into one or two large backpacks, bikepacking gear has to be distributed across three or four bags in order to make the experience worthwhile and ensure the weight is distributed evenly. Here at Club Ride, we understand that packing for a week long bike ride through the mountains can be difficult; that's why we have put together a list of the essential bikepacking gear to make the process easier.
Bags
Before you begin packing up all your gear you have to know how to distribute everything so the weight is even. Here's a list of the bags that you will want to attach to your bike for your bikepacking adventure:
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Large Seat Bag- Your large seat bag will sit right beneath your seat, just like the name implies, and can house lighter, but bulky, items.
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Handlebar Bag- Your handlebar bag is meant to carry heavier items like a tent or sleeping bag. You can also store gear that you need to access quickly, like GPS or a camera, in your handlebar bag.
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Day Bag- Your day bag will sit on your back as you ride so it shouldn't be too big. Light weight items and some of your food supply can be stored in your day bag.
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Water Bottle Racks- Water is crucial when bikepacking since you need to stay hydrated. Water bottle racks can be installed on your bike frame and will come in handy more often than you'd think, even outside the mountain trails.
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Frame Bag- A sound alternative to water bottle cages is a frame bag that can be used to carry food supply and a water bladder. Water bladders can usually carry more fluid than water bottles, making frame bags an excellent addition for bikepacking.
Gear
Most of the gear that you should bring on a bikepacking trip is obviously similar to gear you would bring on a backpacking trip. Warm clothes, fire starters, food, water, and a tent are the most essential items you will need to pack in your bike bags. Navigation supplies, like a map and compass, or a GPS, are also important to pack and a first aid kit should be stored away in an easy to reach bag, like the handlebar bag, so that you don't have to rummage through all your gear to find it in the case of an emergency.
A bike repair kit should also be brought along just in case you need to replace a tire tube or the chain. Some of the gear that you should include in your bike repair kit are:
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Tire Repair Tools and Extra Tubes
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Extra Chain, Chain Lube, and Chain Pins
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Multi Tool
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Helmet
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Bike Light for Night Riding
If you are planning a bikepacking trip and are in need of proper clothing supplies, you can view our men's and women's online stores here. If you have any questions about our products, you can contact us here or call us at 208.726.2582.
