If you love cycling and the great outdoors, a bikepacking trip could be the perfect way to combine both. A growing trend for outdoor enthusiasts, bikepacking involves long-distance cycling across diverse terrains, with all your essential gear strapped to your bike. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, it’s important to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your bikepacking trip.
What Exactly is Bikepacking?
Bikepacking is a form of adventure cycling that typically spans multiple days and involves traveling on varied terrains. Unlike bike touring, which often relies on roads, bikepacking typically ventures into more rugged paths. The key focus is self-sufficiency and minimalist travel, meaning you’ll carry only the essentials, using bags attached directly to your bike.
How Is Bikepacking Different from Bike Touring?
Although bikepacking and bike touring both involve long-distance cycling, the main difference lies in the terrain and the gear. Bikepacking tends to focus on more challenging routes and lighter packing, while bike touring is often more about extended travel on paved roads with larger gear.
Essential Gear for a Bikepacking Trip
Wondering what to bring on your first bikepacking adventure? Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:
1. Bike and Maintenance Tools
The first thing you’ll need is, of course, a bike. While bikes designed specifically for touring are great, any sturdy bike can work for bikepacking, as long as you plan your route according to your bike’s capabilities. If you’re new to bikepacking, consider starting with simpler gravel trails before advancing to more difficult terrains.
Along with your bike, be sure to pack essential maintenance tools in case of emergencies. A basic toolkit should include a puncture repair kit, a bike pump, and a multi-tool. If you’re heading off the beaten path, consider carrying additional items like spare brake pads, a GPS device, and an inner tube.
2. Bike Bags and Storage
Since bikepacking is all about traveling light, your packing solution will be crucial. For longer trips, you may need a combination of pannier bags and rucksacks that can be easily attached to your bike. These allow you to carry your camping gear and other essentials without overloading yourself. Keep your load organized for balance and easy access to your most-used items.
3. Sleeping Gear
Planning to camp on your bikepacking trip? If so, pack essential camping equipment, such as a lightweight tent and a sleeping bag. If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can always stay in B&Bs or guesthouses along the way.
4. Toiletries and Essentials
For extended trips, hygiene is important. Don’t forget to pack essentials like toothpaste, toothbrush, and any personal care items you’ll need. If you’re expecting sunny weather, sunscreen is a must, and insect repellent can also come in handy.
A phone charger, GPS device, and a portable power bank are essential for keeping your devices powered throughout the journey.
5. Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress for the conditions. Waterproof jackets and pants are a must if you’re riding in rainy weather, while lightweight and breathable clothing is perfect for warmer days. Make sure to pack layers, and don’t forget gloves for cooler temperatures.
6. Cooking Gear
If you’re camping, cooking your meals on the go is a great way to save money. A small camping stove and cooking utensils are a must. If you’re traveling with a group, you can take turns cooking, or you might want to treat yourself to a meal at a pub after a long day on the bike.
7. Packing Tips
Packing for a bikepacking trip can feel overwhelming, but it’s easier if you do it strategically. When loading your bags, aim to keep the weight low and centered on the bike. This will help maintain balance and prevent discomfort during your ride.
Use all available storage spaces on your bike, such as bottle cage mounts or pannier mounts on the forks. Place items that you’ll need during the ride, like waterproof clothing, at the top of your bags for easy access. Make sure sleeping bags and spare clothes are stored in waterproof bags to keep them dry.
8. Choosing the Right Bikepacking Route
The UK has a wealth of bikepacking destinations for cyclists of all levels. When selecting a route, ensure that it’s suitable for your bike. If you’re on a road bike, stick to paved roads; if you’re on a mountain bike, you have much more flexibility to explore varied terrain.
Some popular UK bikepacking routes include:
South Downs Way
Pennine Bridleway
Yorkshire Dales 300
Trans Cambrian Way
The Faultline Trail
Research these routes and choose one that matches your skill level and the type of bike you have.
Preparing for the Trip
Once you’ve got your gear and route sorted, there are a few final steps to ensure your bikepacking trip goes smoothly:
1. Test Your Gear
Before embarking on a multi-day journey, test out your camping equipment, such as your tent, cooking gear, and sleeping bag. It’s best to practice setting up camp beforehand, so you’re not caught off guard on the trip.
2. Pack Light and Smart
Remember, packing light is essential. The more weight you carry, the harder the ride will be. Only bring what you truly need and avoid packing unnecessary items.
3. Learn from Experience
If it’s your first bikepacking adventure, you’ll learn a lot about what works and what doesn’t. Make notes for future trips to refine your packing and planning process.
4. Enjoy the Journey
Above all, bikepacking is about exploring the outdoors and enjoying nature. Don’t rush through the trip; take time to soak in the scenery and appreciate the experience. Each ride is an opportunity to challenge yourself and connect with nature.
Final Thoughts
Bikepacking is an incredible way to explore new places, enjoy the outdoors, and test your cycling skills. By preparing properly, packing efficiently, and choosing the right route, you can make your bikepacking trip a rewarding experience. Now, all that’s left to do is get out there and enjoy the adventure!
