Bikepacking, it is a thing!

If you had asked me two years ago (which someone did), Bikepacking wasn’t ever going to be my thing.

You may sugar coat it as much as you like (and it’s all true), with the stories of beautiful scenery, the freshness of being outdoors, being free to explore, anywhere you can bike to. But, You and I both know, it also means many hours in the saddle, pedaling, pushing, walking – in all elements, cramping (for some), carrying a lot of weight for many Kms, and it co$ts. It costs to set up, maintain, and ride between places.

Let’s make some lists

1. You’ll need a bike
   1. A reliable bike, Something that is sturdy, strong, and preferably light.
2. Suitable riding gear. 
   1. Summer kit, 
   2. Winter kit, 
   3. Wet Weather Kit.
   4. Off the Bike Kit, keeping you warm overnight 
3. Sleeping stuff
   1. Sleeping Bag (Light and warm)
   2. Tent (unless you cabin/motel it)
   3. Toiletries, towel.
4. Bike spares.
   1. Bike tools, spare tube
5. Electronics
   1. Something to map your ride
      1. Bike GPS, Watch GPS
      2. Phones
6. Some Bags to carry everything
   1. Front Bag
   2. Frame Bag (optional, but handy)
   3. Tail Bag or Paniers
7. Food
   1. Likely Dry Food
   2. Bars and Snacks
8. Water
   1. I take three bottles, one being a Thermos.

 

But is it worth it. Yeah.

It ends up looking like: