It can be helpful to write a list of all the items you’ll need and then tick things off as you pack. There’s the obvious things, such as your bike, shoes and helmet but there are also some other items you might not have thought of that will make your experience even better.
We’ve come up with a list of additional items that we consider useful on a road trip with your bicycle.
Food
Pack food for both on and off the bike. Think bars, hydration tabs and gels (if you use them) but also bananas, oat cakes, rice cakes, dried fruit and nut butter. Always take more water than you think you need. A reusable coffee cup saves on waste.
Personal care
Don’t forget the chammy cream, biodegradable wet wipes, and a first aid kit for any minor injuries. A foam roller, massage gun or simply a tennis ball makes a good addition, for working out any tightness in your body.
Tools
Depending on how long or far you’re travelling, you might consider taking a full tool kit. If there’s space in the car, a proper floor pump is good choice. A small pack of spares – brake pads, tubes, a mech hanger and some chain links is always a good idea.
Changing
Depending on where you’re going, a changing robe, towel or similar makes stripping off kit a lot more pleasant. A bucket for wet, muddy kit stops you getting your car messy and makes dealing with the clean up a lot easier. Stuff boot driers or newspaper into your wet shoes to get them dry as soon as possible.
Power
So many of our devices depend on power so a power bank can be very useful – just be sure to take along the various leads and chargers you might need for your bike computer, phone, wireless shifting etc.
Happy travels!
