Bikepacking 101

Basics to get you going with bikepacking: Some getting started guide, useful tools, and blog posts.

Getting Started with Bikepacking

Bikepacking is a great way to stay active & fit while traveling and exploring what's around. However, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of information out there. This getting started guide will help you get started with bikepacking by providing you with the basics you need to know.

Ride the Bike You Have

Any gravel, hardtail, rigid MTB, or drop-bar bike works. Even a single speed bike works!

Focus on riding first, rather than best bike, or gear.
Pack Minimal

Strap items to bars or seatpost, and use a small backpack if needed. Skip the cooking gear on your first trip.

Pack light, and don't get demotivated when a hill comes up.
Plan a Short Loop

Plan a 10–30 km (6–20 mi) on familiar roads or trails to nearby campsite to start with.

So you don't have to worry about navigation & distance.
Evaluate and Iterate

Afterwards, note what you used, what you didn't, and what to improve for the next ride.

VeloPacker can help you with this one with ease!

Useful Tools

You may not need these tools right away, but they can come in handy later on, wether you want to check your gear inch for climbing hills, tyre pressure for comfort, or bike stem length for reach, these tools can help you.