Flats of North Dakota
Hello Cyclists looking for adventure!
I have assembled a touring cyclists checklist. This is a basis for you creating your own list, and may help you remember some key items which are overlooked.
THE LIST:
The first section of this list includes items which will be used most days when you’re cycling – no matter the weather.
- Your bike
- Rear rack / Front rack
- Rear panniers / Front panniers
- Trailer*
- Helmet – Use it. I cannot stress this enough.
- Cycling shoes/Regular shoes
- Cycling shorts/shorts
- Shirts and/or vest
- Rain Gear
- Knee warmers
- Arm warmers
- Socks
- Gloves
*if using a trailer you may omit the panniers and racks
This second section of the list includes clothing for off the bike and in camp. These maybe also be used in extreme weather on the bike.
- Comfortable pants
- Comfortable shirt(s)
- Underwear
- Sandals/Lightweight shoes
- Wool hat
- Gloves
The third section includes camping gear used during a tour.
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Tent
- Rain fly
- Ground Cloth
- Water Filter
- Utensils
- Small stove
- Lightweight pot/pan
The fourth part includes items which can (and will) be used throughout the whole trip whether on the bike or not.
- Tools – Bring what you need based on the duration of your trip
- Chain lube
- Zip ties
- Multi-tool – If kept in a handy location it can reduce time with on the road repairs
- Electrical tape
- Patch kit
- Tire levers
- Spare tubes/tire
- 12″ of wire
- Extra nuts and bolts
- Toiletries
- Leatherman knife
- Water containers (water bottles, jugs)
- First-aid kit
- Sunglasses
- Flashlight
- Bike headlight
- Sunblock
- Bug repellent
That’s it! It may look like a lot of gear, but once you have it all together you will realize it’s not much at all. Now, the key is organizing it… I can’t help you there much, because no matter how well you think you’re organized when you leave for your first day you’re going to reorganize down the road. You’ll find what works for you.
Pushing Miles 