Cycling Gear
Things to carry on two wheels
Cycling gear is needed to make sure you have a fun, comfortable and safe tour. Bring a change of clothes and socks and rain gear - light waterproof pants and a jacket are not only good for staying dry, but have a very high warmth/weight ratio. A hat or bandanna, helmet and sunglasses are also must have items. Make sure you have lip balm, a small first-aid kit, insect repellent and at least two full water bottles.
Bike bags and panniers are great for carrying accessories. Panniers are bags that hang alongside one of the wheels of a bicycle, and they usually come in pairs. Touring cyclists often use two pairs, one on the rear, the other on the front, for better weight distribution.
Bicycle Repair
Cycling for extended periods may mean you need to repair something. Carry only the tools you can use on your bike tour. Tools to tighten anything that comes loose are good, as are spare screws.
A minimum tool kit would be a Philips and a flathead screwdriver, a crescent wrench and Allen wrenches. Bike stores sell handy mini-kits. You may also want a tire kit, bike pump, pressure gauge, chain links, duct tape, scissors and a small flashlight.
Bike Spares
Some cyclists carry extra spares. Inner tubes, brake shoes, light bulbs, spokes, nuts and bolts, a toe clip strap and shoelaces can be brought, just in case.
Biking Tour Food
If you're camping or cooking, you'll need to plan and carry food. If you are near towns and cities, getting food won't be a problem. It's on trails and back roads that you will need to be sure you're stocked up. Also, carry some snacks with you for the ride itself.
