What to Pack for Bikepacking: The Essential Guide

Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to what you actually need for bikepacking. No fancy gear lists - just practical stuff that works.

The Core Kit

Sleep System

• Sleeping bag/quilt (temp rating for your trip)
• Sleeping pad
• Bivy/tent/tarp (pick your poison)
• Optional: pillow (or stuff sack with clothes)

Clothing

• 1 riding outfit
• 1 camp outfit
• Rain jacket
• Warm layer
• Fresh socks (your feet will thank you)
• Gloves
• Buff/beanie Pro tip: Merino wool = less stink

Tools & Spares

• Multi-tool
• Tire levers
• Spare tube
• Patch kit
• Pump or CO2
• Chain lube
• Quick link
• Zip ties
• Duct tape That’s it. Your bike shop isn’t coming with you, but you don’t need to bring one either.

Electronics

• Phone
• Battery bank
• Cables
• Headlamp
• Bike lights Keep it simple - you’re here to ride, not doom-scroll.

Food & Water

• Water bottles/bladder
• Water filter
• Snacks
• Easy meals
• Stove + fuel (if you’re cooking)
• Mug/pot
• Spork Remember: You can always find more food, but water is critical.

Weather-Specific Gear

Hot Weather

• Sun protection
• Extra water capacity
• Electrolytes
• Light, breathable layers

Cold Weather

• Extra warm layers
• Better sleeping bag
• Insulated water bottles
• Hot drinks kit

Wet Weather

• Proper rain gear
• Dry bags
• Camp tarp
• Quick-dry clothes

The Nice-to-Haves

• Camera
• Small towel
• Camp shoes
• Coffee kit
• Repair kit (for longer trips)
• First aid kit
• Navigation backup

What Not to Pack

• Multiple outfits
• Heavy tools you don’t know how to use
• Too much “just in case” gear
• Anything you haven’t tested
• Your fears and anxieties (leave those at home)

Trip-Specific Considerations

Weekend Trip

• Minimize cooking gear
• Less spare clothes
• Basic tools only
• Focus on essentials

Week+ Adventure

• More repair capability
• Better weather protection
• Cooking setup
• Cleaning basics

Remote Routes

• Extra spares
• Better first aid
• More food capacity
• Navigation backup

How Velopacker Helps

Our platform makes packing easier with:

• Customizable packing lists
• Weight tracking
• Trip-specific templates
• Community gear recommendations
• Weather-based suggestions

Final Tips

1. Test your gear before the trip
2. Pack, unpack, repack - get organized
3. Less is more (seriously)
4. Prioritize sleep and water
5. You can probably buy what you forgot

Ready to start planning your packing list? Join Velopacker and make your next adventure prep a breeze. We’ll help you pack smart and ride happy.