Bikepacking Bags & Packing: A No-Nonsense Guide

Let’s break down bikepacking bags and how to pack them like a pro. No fluff, just practical advice you can actually use.

Essential Bags

Frame Bags

• Your main storage workhorse
• Great for heavy items (keeps center of gravity low)
• Perfect for: tools, spare tubes, pump, food, cooking gear
• Pro tip: Get a custom bag if you can - it maximizes space

Saddle Bags

• Your go-to for clothes and sleep gear
• Aim for waterproof ones
• Keep it tight and stable
• Perfect for: sleeping bag, clothes, lightweight bulky items
• Watch out: Too heavy can affect handling

Handlebar Rolls

• Great for light, bulky stuff
• Needs to clear your cables and brake lines
• Perfect for: tent, sleeping pad, puffy jacket
• Pro tip: Use a stabilizer harness for technical terrain

Accessory Bags

• Feed bags: Snacks, phone, camera
• Top tube bags: More snacks, electronics
• Fork bags: Water, extra food
• Anything cages: Flexible storage for odd items

Packing Smart

The Golden Rules

1. Heavy stuff low and centered
2. Frequently used items easily accessible
3. Waterproof critical gear
4. Compress everything
5. Use stuff sacks for organization

Weight Distribution

• Frame bag: Heavy gear
• Saddle bag: Medium weight
• Handlebar: Lighter items
• Accessory bags: Small, frequent-use items

Common Mistakes

• Overloading the handlebar (makes steering weird)
• Loose straps (they’ll catch on everything)
• Not test-riding loaded
• Bringing too much “just in case” stuff

Quick Packing Tips

1. Roll clothes, don’t fold
2. Use compression sacks
3. Fill empty spaces with small items
4. Pack in order of least to most used
5. Keep rain gear accessible
6. Double-bag electronics
7. Use color-coded stuff sacks

Real Talk About Waterproofing

• Double-bag anything that absolutely must stay dry
• Test your “waterproof” bags before trusting them
• Bring garbage bags as backup
• Accept that some stuff will get wet

Organization Systems

• Use different colored stuff sacks
• Keep a mental map of where everything is
• Pack the same way every time
• Consider clear bags for easy viewing

How Velopacker Makes It Easier

Our platform helps you:

• Create detailed packing lists
• Track what worked (and what didn’t)
• Share packing strategies with other riders
• Plan different setups for different trips

Remember, your first setup won’t be perfect - and that’s fine. Start simple, learn what works for you, and adjust as you go. Ready to get your packing system dialed? Join our waitlist and let’s make your next adventure smoother.