Bikepacking is a popular outdoor activity in Europe and the United States. Some people believe that one needs to spend a large sum of money buying custom bags, camping gear, and the right bike. On the contrary, you can start with essential gear especially if you are a beginner. Here is a detailed guide to going bikepacking.
Choose and Prepare Your Bike
Experienced bikepackers recommend choosing a bike that you are comfortable riding. Avoid carrying panniers and racks, as they need a dedicated bike. It is necessary to adjust the gearing of your bike for easy pedaling. Also, you might have to adjust the tires and suspension if you will carry heavy gear. Fix comfortable grips, a saddle, and double-wrap the bar tape. It is wise to ride in an upright position to avoid straining your lower back.
Carry Your Gear
Soft bikepacking bags are recommended instead of panniers or racks. They have enough space to carry essential gear without reducing your bike's stability. Main load carriers comprise a frame pack, seat pack, and a harness. Keep light items at the front for easy steering. Typically, the seat pack contains food and clothes. Pack bulky items in the frame pack for better handling.
You can pack snacks in accessory bags and fit a tube bag at the front. Placing stem bags on the bar is one of the bikepacking holiday tips that professional bikepackers offer. A tiny front accessory pocket is appropriate for carrying a camera, as it is easily accessible. The frame pack and mounting options determine the number of bottle mount options that you will have.
Safety and Repair Kit
It is important to carry a first aid kit and a tool kit when you bikepack. Also, pack an extra battery and a spot tracker. The tool kit should include a bike lube, pump, multi-tool, and a tire repair kit.
Navigation
Many bikepackers carry GPS devices with pre-planned routes. Carry a map and compass to back you up in case the GPS gadget fails. You might have to make several adjustments on your route. Thus, it is important to learn how to do outdoor first aid, use maps, and a compass.
The First Tour
Many beginners fear planning their first routes. You can attend supported bikepacking events like The Distance and Pannier.cc's tours to explore in a controlled environment. Generally, a bikepacking trip entails riding for several days to cover a particular distance.
You can check out existing routes or trails in your target area. Or, you can use RidewithGPS, satellite imagery, and the OSM Cycle Map layer to get subtle trail details. Decide where you spend your nights. It can be a campsite, wild camping, or a hostel. The distance that you can cover in a day mainly depends on the terrain. The Straddle and Paddle Bicycling Route, Denali National Park, and Slate Springs are ideal bikepacking routes for beginners.
Many bikepackers travel to foreign countries to explore their landscape and scenery. It is important to exercise before you begin your trip. Also, ensure that you have the right gear, safety, and repair tools. Eventualities might occur during the trip. So, it is important to study your route and prevailing weather patterns in advance.
