Bike Packing

To start bikepacking, you’ll need a set of bikepacking bags such as a frame bag, handlebar bag, seat pack, and top tube bag for efficient storage. A lightweight tent, bivy, or hammock will serve as shelter, while a compact sleeping bag and sleeping pad provide comfort. Cooking gear includes a small stove, fuel, pot, and utensils. For hydration, water bottles or a hydration bladder, along with a water filter, are essential. Navigation tools like a GPS device, map, or smartphone with offline maps will help you stay on track. A repair kit with a multi-tool, spare tubes, tire levers, and a pump is crucial. Weather-appropriate clothing, including rain gear and an extra set of base layers, ensures you are prepared for changing conditions.

The best bags for your bike depend on your frame size, riding style, and trip length. A frame bag fits within your bike’s triangle and is great for carrying heavier items. A handlebar bag is ideal for lightweight but bulky gear like a sleeping bag or tent. A seat pack is perfect for soft items like clothing and should be stable to prevent sway. A top tube bag is useful for small essentials like snacks, phone, and tools, while fork cages and stem bags can carry extra water, food, or cooking gear. Look for waterproof materials, durable construction, and secure attachment points to ensure your gear stays protected.

A well-balanced bikepacking setup distributes weight evenly. Heavy items such as tools, food, and water should be packed in the frame bag for stability. Bulky but light items like a sleeping bag, clothes, and tent should be placed in the handlebar and seat pack. Quick-access items such as snacks, phone, GPS, and multitool should be kept in the top tube or stem bags. Avoid overloading one side or placing too much weight at the rear, as this can affect bike handling.

Most bikes can accommodate a frame bag, but you should check the frame triangle size to ensure a proper fit. Some bags use straps, while others require bolts or Velcro for mounting. If you have water bottles inside the frame, make sure the bag won’t block access to them. If a standard frame bag doesn’t fit, consider a half-frame bag to keep space available for water bottles.

Yes, you can combine panniers and bikepacking bags, especially for longer trips. However, panniers are heavier and can make the bike less agile on rough terrain, whereas bikepacking bags are lighter and more stable for off-road riding. For a hybrid setup, use panniers for extra storage on the rear rack while keeping essential gear in a frame bag and handlebar bag for better weight distribution.

Water can be carried in several ways. Frame-mounted water bottles are easy to access, while fork-mounted bottles are useful for extra capacity. A hydration bladder in a frame bag is great for long distances. Stem bags or hip packs provide quick access to hydration while riding. A water filter or purification tablets are essential for refilling from natural sources. For remote trips, carrying extra water bladders or collapsible bottles is recommended.

To keep your gear in top condition, wipe down bikepacking bags with a damp cloth after trips, hand wash if needed, and air dry. Clean zippers with a soft brush and lubricate if they start sticking. Use a liner in your sleeping bag and wash it as per manufacturer instructions. Clean cooking gear thoroughly and store it dry to prevent mold or rust. Check for loose straps or worn-out attachments on bags after every trip to ensure durability.

A balanced bike improves handling and comfort. Heavy gear such as food, tools, and water should be packed in the frame bag close to the bike’s center of gravity. Light but bulky gear like a sleeping bag, tent, and clothing should be packed in the handlebar bag and seat pack. Quick-access items such as snacks, phone, and wallet should be kept in top tube and stem bags. Even weight distribution ensures the bike isn’t too back-heavy or front-heavy, which helps maintain control. Test your setup before heading out to make necessary adjustments.

Cooking gear such as a stove, fuel, and pot should be stored in a frame bag or handlebar bag for easy access. Dry food such as granola bars, nuts, and pasta can be packed in a top tube bag or frame bag. Fresh food may require a small insulated pouch if necessary. In bear country, always use a bear-proof container or hang food away from the sleeping area. Keeping weight low and centered helps maintain good bike handling.

A sleeping bag should be stored in a dry bag and secured in your handlebar bag or seat pack. A sleeping pad should be deflated and rolled up, then stored with your sleeping bag or attached to your bike’s frame. A tent should be packed by splitting its components (poles, rainfly, body) to distribute weight across bags. Ensuring your sleep system is waterproofed is crucial, especially in wet conditions.

To keep your gear secure, tighten straps properly to avoid movement. Use compression bags for soft items like clothing and sleeping bags. Ensure even weight distribution to prevent the bike from being back-heavy. Test ride your setup before a trip and make adjustments as needed. A well-packed bike is stable and comfortable, making long rides much easier.