Bikepacking 101: A Beginner's Guide to Two-Wheeled Adventure
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the thrill of cycling with the freedom of minimalist camping, bikepacking might just be your next obsession. Whether you're an avid cyclist looking to explore beyond pavement or a camping enthusiast seeking a new twist on outdoor travel, bikepacking offers the perfect blend of adventure, self-reliance, and exploration.
What Is Bikepacking?
At its core, bikepacking is the fusion of biking and backpacking. Instead of strapping on a heavy pack, you load your gear directly onto your bike, usually using a combination of handlebar rolls, seat packs, frame bags, and fork-mounted cages. Unlike traditional bicycle touring, which often sticks to paved roads and is supported by racks and panniers, bikepacking typically veers off the beaten path. It favors lightweight setups and thrives on gravel roads, forest trails, and remote backcountry routes.
Why Try Bikepacking?
Freedom to Explore : Bikepacking opens up access to places cars can’t reach and hikers rarely venture. You can traverse national forests, BLM land, and wilderness areas, all under your own power.
Minimalist Adventure : There’s a unique joy in carrying just what you need and nothing more. It’s a challenge, a practice in self-sufficiency, and deeply rewarding.
Accessible and Scalable : You can start with an overnight trip close to home and gradually build up to multi-day epics.
Great Workout : It’s not just scenic—it’s great for your legs, lungs, and mental health.
The Basic Gear You Need for Bikepacking
You don’t need to break the bank to try bikepacking, but having the right gear will make a huge difference in your comfort and safety.
1. The Right Bike
Most mountain bikes, gravel bikes, or sturdy touring bikes can handle bikepacking. The key is tire clearance and durability. Rigid or hardtail bikes are ideal, especially with wide, grippy tires.
2. Bikepacking Bags
Specialized soft bags are designed to carry gear without the need for racks:
Handlebar Roll : Ideal for a sleeping bag or tent.
Seat Pack : Great for clothes and light gear.
Frame Bag : Fits inside the bike triangle and carries heavy items like tools, food, and water.
Top Tube Bag : Useful for snacks, phone, or camera.
3. Camping Gear
Tent, Bivy, or Hammock : Choose something compact and lightweight.
Sleeping Bag & Pad : A three-season bag and inflatable pad strike a balance of warmth and packability.
Cooking Kit : A small stove, pot, utensils, and fuel. Consider freeze-dried meals or simple one-pot recipes.
4. Clothing
Riding Kit : Padded shorts, moisture-wicking jerseys, gloves.
Camp Clothes : Lightweight, warm layers, and a dry set of socks.
Weather Gear : Packable rain jacket, wind layer, and sun protection.
5. Tools and Spares
Basic Repair Kit : Multi-tool, spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, mini-pump, chain tool, and a few zip ties and duct tape.
Lubrication : A small bottle of chain lube helps maintain drivetrain efficiency in dusty or wet conditions.
6. Navigation and Safety
GPS device, smartphone with offline maps (like Gaia GPS or Ride with GPS), or a paper map.
First aid kit, emergency whistle, and headlamp or bike lights.
How to Plan Your First Bikepacking Trip
Start small! A single-night outing close to home is the perfect way to test your gear and get a feel for bikepacking.
1. Choose Your Route
Look for:
Mixed-surface bike paths, gravel roads, or mellow trails.
Water access and legal camping sites.
Loop routes or out-and-backs for simple logistics.
Use sites like Bikepacking.com , Komoot , and local trail groups for inspiration.
2. Prep Your Bike and Bags
Test pack your bags before the trip.
Keep heavy items low and centered to maintain handling.
Check tire pressure, brake function, and drivetrain.
Secure all bags to prevent rattling or rubbing.
3. Food and Water Planning
Bring calorie-dense snacks: energy bars, trail mix, peanut butter wraps.
Plan meals that require minimal cooking.
Identify water sources along the route and carry purification options (filter, tablets).
4. Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and used TP.
Camp at established sites when possible.
Be respectful of wildlife and other users on the trail.
Common Bikepacking Mistakes to Avoid
Overpacking : The temptation to bring too much is strong. Stick to essentials and test pack beforehand.
Unbalanced Loads : Keep gear centered and compact to avoid awkward bike handling.
Lack of Bike Maintenance Knowledge : Practice fixing flats, broken chains, and adjusting derailleurs before your trip.
Ignoring Weather Forecasts : Always check conditions before leaving. Rain gear and warm layers are must-haves.
Too Much Mileage : Start with short distances. Bikepacking is slower than regular riding due to added weight and terrain.
Skipping Pre-Trip Checks : Double-check bolts, tires, and brake pads. A simple issue can ruin your ride.
Final Thoughts: Your First Bikepacking Adventure Awaits
Bikepacking is more than just a way to travel—it’s a mindset. It teaches you to be resourceful, patient, and present. Whether you're riding along scenic coastal roads or deep into a forest trail with no cell service, you’ll find a sense of freedom that’s hard to match.
There’s something magical about falling asleep to the sounds of nature, knowing you got there under your own power. Every trip teaches you something new—about your gear, your limits, and your surroundings.
So pump up your tires, pack your bags, and take that first step into the world of bikepacking. The trail is calling, and it’s yours to ride.