Bikepacking Checklist and Essentials – Everything You Need

bikepacking gear list

For many people, bikepacking is a new word. Bike-what? Bike-Packing! Bikepacking is the act of biking while backpacking – carrying all you need for your overnight stay on your mountain bike or in some cases, just the basics like water and snacks.

Bikepackers are often self-sufficient, so they don’t rely on services at campgrounds to get by. This bikepacking gear list will help you decide what to bring on your next mountain bike adventure!

Bikepacking Packs

Instead of carrying things on your back like in backpacking or hiking, you don’t want to have a lot of weight on your back when biking. So if possible, you should not wear a backpack. The most important thing is that the majority of the weight should be placed as low as possible onto your bike frame for better stability and riding comfort.

  • Seat Pack
SaleBestseller No. 3
BV Bicycle Y-Series Strap-On Bike Saddle...
BV Bicycle Y-Series Strap-On Bike Saddle...
Great quality guaranrtee & limited 1-Year product warranty included; Easy to Access - Big zippered opening mouth design for riders' convenience
$23.98 −$4.99 $18.99
  • Handlebar Bag
Bestseller No. 2
GORIX Bike Front Bag Frame Bag Capsule Hard Type...
GORIX Bike Front Bag Frame Bag Capsule Hard Type...
【Easy to operate zipper and Highly water proof IPX6】
$42.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Frame Pack
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  • Water Bottle Cage
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Helmet

Your head is the most impact-prone part of your body. So, it’s important to protect yourself with a helmet when you ride your bike even though it may cause some neck soreness when riding for long distances.

A good modern bike helmet consists of a lightweight outer shell and protective liner made from polystyrene foam that absorbs impacts.

With more coverage, mountain bike helmets come with more features. They are highly ventilated and can offer face protection, and also have visors to help protect your eyes from the sun when riding high in the mountains.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Giro Fixture MIPS Adult Mountain Cycling Helmet -...
Giro Fixture MIPS Adult Mountain Cycling Helmet -...
MARKET LEADING PROTECTION: Engineered in Giro's category leading helmet test lab.; VENTILATION: 18 Wind Tunnel vents with internal channeling.
$70.00 −$25.93 $44.07
SaleBestseller No. 2
Smith Optics Engage MIPS Mountain Cycling Helmet -...
Smith Optics Engage MIPS Mountain Cycling Helmet -...
WEIGHT: (Size M, MIPS) 12oz / 350g; CERTIFICATION: CPSC, CE EN 1078
$120.00 −$50.58 $69.42
SaleBestseller No. 3
Smith Optics Convoy MIPS Mountain Cycling Helmet -...
Smith Optics Convoy MIPS Mountain Cycling Helmet -...
WEIGHT: (Size M, MIPS) 11oz / 300g; CERTIFICATION: CPSC, CE EN 1078, AS/NZS2063
$85.00 −$42.50 $42.50

Lights

When you’re out riding and want to set up camp for the night, using a high-output bike light that is mounted on handlebars is essential. The brightness of these lights can easily complement any headlamp. So when it’s time to find some wood for the fire, see if there are any food sources nearby such as berries, or crawl under rocks looking through crevices in search of insects like ants.

  • Headlamp
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GPS Tracker

Dedicated bikepackers often use stem-mounted GPS systems called cycling computers to navigate and track their distance and location. Athletes and most people, however, prefer using a smartwatch that can also monitor heart rate and other physical data points as well as tell you where exactly you are located at any given moment.

  • Wristwatch
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  • Cycling Computer

Sleeping Gear

bikepacking essentials

One of the most important things to consider when planning for a bikepacking trip is what kind of shelter you want. Many options are available, including tents, tarps, and bivies or hammocks if that’s your preferred style. You may even be fortunate enough to find an established tent site with two trees at just the right distance apart!

And instead of an air mattress, buy a quality down sleeping bag or quilt. These are lighter and more compact than foam pads that require bulky space in the pack. Foam pads, on the other hand, can be used for desert touring where it is hot during day time but cold at night when you’re resting up to begin your next cycling leg due to its insulating properties.

  • Tent
SaleBestseller No. 1
Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent, Navy
Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent, Navy
Dome tent with a sturdy frame that withstands 35+ mph winds; Easy setup in only 10 minutes. Good for backpacking
$69.99 −$27.50 $42.49
Bestseller No. 2
Columbia Tent - Dome Tent | Easy Setup 3 Person...
Columbia Tent - Dome Tent | Easy Setup 3 Person...
Additional headroom in this 3 person tent thanks to angled, fiberglass poles.
$49.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
Coleman 4-Person Cabin Tent with Instant Setup |...
Coleman 4-Person Cabin Tent with Instant Setup |...
WeatherTec system with patented welded floors and inverted seams to keep you dry; Rugged Polyguard 2X double-thick fabric for reliable, long-lasting use
$184.99 −$97.00 $87.99
  • Hammock
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  • Bivy
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  • Tarp
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Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp, 10' X 12',...
Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp, 10' X 12',...
Multi-purpose outdoor tarp is great for covering items or placement under a camping tent; Rugged rust-resistant grommets along the outer edge for securely tying down the tarp
$26.49 −$3.97 $22.52
  • Sleeping Bag
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Clothing

Wearing the right clothes is important when riding a bike. It will be necessary to have biking gloves, shorts, jerseys, socks, mountain bike shoes, and rain protective gear for camping after you’re done biking with your friends.

  • Athletic Wicking Jersey
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Jerzees Men's Dri-Power Cotton Blend Long Sleeve...
Jerzees Men's Dri-Power Cotton Blend Long Sleeve...
Crew-neck long-sleeve T-shirt in heavyweight jersey with lay-flat collar; Crew-neck long sleeve T-shirt with lay flat collar
$11.08
SaleBestseller No. 3
G Gradual Men's Sweatpants with Zipper Pockets...
G Gradual Men's Sweatpants with Zipper Pockets...
Elastic waistband and adjustable inner drawstring offer different people's custom fit.; Tapered trouser legs and stretchy ankle cuffs keep length suitable for doing exercise.
$29.99 −$4.50 $25.49
  • Padded Shorts
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Ohuhu Men's 3D Padded Bicycle Cycling Underwear...
Ohuhu Men's 3D Padded Bicycle Cycling Underwear...
3D PADDING: Silica GEL pad provides cushioning even while cycling for long distances; BREATHABLE & LIGHTWEIGHT: 90% Polyester&10%Spandex design providing super flexibility
$15.79
  • Sports Bra
SaleBestseller No. 1
Fruit of the Loom Womens Built Up Tank Style...
Fruit of the Loom Womens Built Up Tank Style...
Supportive while keeping a smooth appearance; 2-Ply stretch construction; 3 pack of full coverage sport bras
$15.00 −$7.38 $7.62
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PUMA Women Sports Bra, 3-Pack (Black/White/Grey,...
PUMA Women Sports Bra, 3-Pack (Black/White/Grey,...
Removable Cups; Moisture Wicking; Racerback; Medium Impact; 90% Nylon | 10% Spandex
$33.49 −$2.94 $30.55
  • Socks
Bestseller No. 3
DeFeet Aireator 3' Townee Socks, Grey, Large
DeFeet Aireator 3" Townee Socks, Grey, Large
Eco- Made Coolmax; Shrink Resistant; Moisture Wicking
$13.99
  • Mountain Bike Shoes
SaleBestseller No. 1
Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes
Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes
Classic do-it-all flat pedal mountain bike shoes; DOTTY TREAD: Classic Dotty tread for superior pedal traction.
$99.95 −$40.00 $59.95
SaleBestseller No. 2
Five Ten Freerider Canvas Mountain Bike Shoes...
Five Ten Freerider Canvas Mountain Bike Shoes...
Canvas upper; Lace closure; Sustainable canvas; One piece molded cupsole
$100.00 −$24.05 $75.95
Bestseller No. 3
Ride Concepts Men's Livewire Flat Pedal Mountain...
Ride Concepts Men's Livewire Flat Pedal Mountain...
MAX GRIP rubber outsole with custom molded toe and heel protection
$50.00
  • Bike Gloves
SaleBestseller No. 1
FEWTUR Winter Heated Gloves for Men Women Cold...
FEWTUR Winter Heated Gloves for Men Women Cold...
We offer a simple return or exchange policy for any sizing or quality issues
$19.99 −$7.50 $12.49
SaleBestseller No. 2
  • Rain Jacket
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Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket,...
Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket,...
Center Back Length: 29"; Omni-shield advanced repellency; Stow-away hood; Zip-closed pockets
$60.00 −$10.01 $49.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Rain Pants
SaleBestseller No. 1
FROGG TOGGS Men's Pro Lite Rain Suit, Waterproof,...
FROGG TOGGS Men's Pro Lite Rain Suit, Waterproof,...
NO PVC or PHTHALATES
$49.99 −$20.01 $29.98
Bestseller No. 3
Arctix Men's Storm Rain Pant, Charcoal, Medium/32...
Arctix Men's Storm Rain Pant, Charcoal, Medium/32...
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: Weather protection WR / WP coating; HANDY FEATURES: Taped seams, lightweight and packable
$27.43
  • Warm Hat
  • Travel Towel
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Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel & Sports...
Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel & Sports...
Pocket:Only XXL larger towel(40*72 inches) has the poacket in one of the corner.
$16.99
  • Sunglasses
SaleBestseller No. 1
ROCKBROS Polarized Sunglasses UV Protection for...
ROCKBROS Polarized Sunglasses UV Protection for...
100% UV400 lens protection blocks 100% of UVA/UVB rays; Durable polycarbonate frame with rubber nose pads for comfort
$29.99 −$5.00 $24.99
Bestseller No. 3
Sports Polarized Sunglasses For Men Cycling...
Sports Polarized Sunglasses For Men Cycling...
30-day money back guarantee ensures you are completely satisfied with your purchase
$18.97

Cooking and Nutrition

Always be prepared and pack food and snacks for your hike. Also, you won’t want to forget your stove, fuel, lighter, and spork. You’ll need a mug for hot drinks too! What you bring along will depend on how long of a trip it is, but here are some recommendations to get you started.

  • Portable Stove
SaleBestseller No. 1
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove...
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove...
Bottom cup doubles as a measuring cup and a bowl.
$124.95 −$10.25 $114.70
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Fuel
Bestseller No. 2
GasOne Camping Fuel Blend Isobutane Fuel Canister...
GasOne Camping Fuel Blend Isobutane Fuel Canister...
4 Pack - Comes 4 pc of Gas One's Isobutane fuel
$29.99
Bestseller No. 3
GasOne Camping Fuel Blend Isobutane Fuel Canister...
GasOne Camping Fuel Blend Isobutane Fuel Canister...
6 Pack - Comes 6 pc of Gas One's Isobutane fuel
$38.34
  • Lighter
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  • Spork
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Ka-Bar Tactical Spork (Spoon Fork Knife) Tool 9909...
Ka-Bar Tactical Spork (Spoon Fork Knife) Tool 9909...
Overall length: 6.875-inch folding spork is made in USA, Extremely light weight.
$7.99 −$1.00 $6.99
  • Nutrition Bars
Bestseller No. 1
ZonePerfect Protein Bars, 10g Protein, 17 Vitamins...
ZonePerfect Protein Bars, 10g Protein, 17 Vitamins...
10 GRAMS OF PROTEIN: to help manage hunger; B VITAMINS: to support energy metabolism; 17 VITAMINS & MINERALS: including vitamin C and zinc to support a healthy immune system
$26.28
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Bowl
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Sea to Summit X-Bowl Collapsible Silicone Camping...
Sea to Summit X-Bowl Collapsible Silicone Camping...
Nylon base is cut-resistant and functions as a cutting board when flipped upside down; Calibrated internal ridges serve as a measuring cup
$18.95 −$5.69 $13.26
SaleBestseller No. 3
Stansport Collapsible Silicon Travel Bowls - 2...
Stansport Collapsible Silicon Travel Bowls - 2...
Convenient collapsible design for camping, traveling and more; Lightweight construction with included carabiner
$12.99 −$3.14 $9.85
  • Camping Food
Bestseller No. 1
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles |...
Mountain House Beef Stroganoff with Noodles |...
RECYCLABLE - Recycled used packaging with TerraCycle to reduce waste.
$9.36
Bestseller No. 2
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet | Freeze Dried...
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet | Freeze Dried...
RECYCLABLE - Recycled used packaging with TerraCycle to reduce waste
$11.47
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Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef | Freeze Dried...
Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef | Freeze Dried...
RECYCLABLE - Recycled used packaging with TerraCycle to reduce waste.
$10.99 −$1.99 $9.00
  • Can Opener
SaleBestseller No. 1
Chef Craft Select Butterfly Can Opener, 4 inches,...
Chef Craft Select Butterfly Can Opener, 4 inches,...
Only four inches in length, it is easy to store even in a full drawer; Small size is great for camping or to take with a lunch
$6.99 −$1.84 $5.15
SaleBestseller No. 2
Joseph Joseph Can-Do Compact Can Opener Easy Twist...
Joseph Joseph Can-Do Compact Can Opener Easy Twist...
Compact manual can opener with unique, circular, space-saving design; Opener automatically grips can edge as you twist
$16.50 −$7.51 $8.99
Bestseller No. 3
JapanBargain 3191, Japanese Small Manual Can...
JapanBargain 3191, Japanese Small Manual Can...
Japanese portable travel can opener; Material: Steel; Dimensions: 2-1/2 inch; Color: Red or Green
$7.81
  • Dishwashing Soap
SaleBestseller No. 2
Sierra Dawn Campsuds Biodegradable Soap with...
Sierra Dawn Campsuds Biodegradable Soap with...
All the cleaning power of Original Campsuds. Smells great too!
$24.55 −$1.91 $22.64
Bestseller No. 3
Campsuds 16oz
Campsuds 16oz
All purpose liquid cleaner; Use for personal hygiene, laundry or dishes; Works in hot, cold or salt water
$37.39

Water

This is not an option. You have to carry H2O with you when hiking, even though it’s inconvenient because at the end of the day, your pack will be much heavier than before, and drinking lots of fluid can lead to needing more pit stops along the way.

If you are planning to hike in a remote location, make sure that before your trip starts you have packed the necessary water filtration system.

  • Water Bottle
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Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle Made...
Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle Made...
Suitable for both warm and cold beverages (-40 to 212 degrees Fahrenheit)
$14.99 −$2.50 $12.49
  • Water Filtration System
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Safety, Hygiene, and Toiletries

bikepacking checklist

When packing for the trip, remember that you can only bring as many hygiene and toiletry items. You shouldn’t pack more than what is needed to reduce how heavy your bag will be at the end of every day.

  • First-Aid Supplies
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  • Shampoo
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McKesson Shampoo and Body Wash, Rinse-Free, Light...
McKesson Shampoo and Body Wash, Rinse-Free, Light...
Formulated to thoroughly clean hair and skin without water; Convenient way to bathe anyone confined to a bed who cannot get to a shower or bathtub
$6.95
  • Toothbrush, Toothpaste Kit
Bestseller No. 1
Colgate Max Fresh Wisp Disposable Mini Travel...
Colgate Max Fresh Wisp Disposable Mini Travel...
Brush Your Teeth on the Go, Anytime, Anywhere; Mini Prepasted Toothbrush, No Rinsing Necessary
$17.96
SaleBestseller No. 2
Crest Scope | Mini Brushes-Disposable Toothbrushes...
Crest Scope | Mini Brushes-Disposable Toothbrushes...
No water necessary; Travel-sized; 6 Sets of 2; Not to be used with toothpaste
$19.95 −$6.46 $13.49
Bestseller No. 3
N-amboo Bamboo Toothbrush Prepasted Disposable...
N-amboo Bamboo Toothbrush Prepasted Disposable...
Bamboo handle; Prepasted Toothbrsuh; Biodegradable; Packed by paper bag; Disposable Toothbrsuh,more Biodegradable than plastic toothbrush
$25.88
  • Face Surgical Masks
SaleBestseller No. 1
Borje Disposable Face Mask, 100 PCS Black Masks, 3...
Borje Disposable Face Mask, 100 PCS Black Masks, 3...
Masks made of 3 layers of high-quality non-woven fabric which is more breathable; Our disposable face masks are suitable for adults and teenagers
$14.99 −$8.00 $6.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Hand Sanitizer and Antibacterial Wipes
Bestseller No. 1
Cleanze Antibacterial Hand Sanitizing Wipes | 100...
Cleanze Antibacterial Hand Sanitizing Wipes | 100...
FDA Registered OTC Product: NDC #77720-003-08
$4.99
SaleBestseller No. 2
Alta + Antibacterial Hand Wipes 90 Wipes (3) Packs
Alta + Antibacterial Hand Wipes 90 Wipes (3) Packs
Without harsh chemicals and Alcohol Free formula, does not dry hands; Resealable Package, Large Single wet Towels, 5.5 x 6.5 inches
$15.00 −$2.01 $12.99
Bestseller No. 3
Wet Ones Plant Based Antibacterial Hand Wipes,...
Wet Ones Plant Based Antibacterial Hand Wipes,...
PLANT-BASED WIPES made from soft plant-derived fibers; NON-PLASTIC WET ONES WIPES — Leave hands feeling clean and refreshed
$24.90
  • Insect Repellent
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OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol, Dry,...
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol, Dry,...
Two 4 oz cans of OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol protect against mosquitoes; OFF! bug spray with DEET comes in a convenient aerosol spray bottle for easy application
$14.37
  • Common or Prescription Medications
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  • Sunscreen
Bestseller No. 1
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion,...
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion,...
HIGH-PERFORMANCE TRAVEL SIZE SUNSCREEN — Water & sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes; FREE FROM oxybenzone and octinoxate
$9.78
Bestseller No. 2
Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Water...
Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Spray SPF 50, Water...
Free Of: Coppertone Sport Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Spray is free from dyes, PABA; Includes one 1.6 ounce bottle of Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray
$4.80
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Toilet paper
Bestseller No. 1
Coghlan's Packable Camp Toilet Tissue, 2-Rolls
Coghlan's Packable Camp Toilet Tissue, 2-Rolls
Coreless rolls take up less space in your pack; 140 single-ply sheets per roll
$4.49
SaleBestseller No. 3

Bike Repair Kit

Bikepackers should bring some basic bike maintenance tools like a tire-repair kit. Add to that list chain lube/pins/links along with spare cables for your bike in case anything breaks during extended trips. You could even carry a lightweight lock when stopping into towns to resupply yourself.

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Frequently Asked Questions

bike packing equipment

What Type of Bike Do You Use for Bikepacking?

If you plan to bikepack, adventure-ready gravel mountain bikes like hardtail (front suspension fork), full suspension, and fat-tired mountain bikes are our main recommendations.

How Much Weight Should I Take Bikepacking?

You should pack your bag depending on the length of time you will be traveling, weather conditions, and how much weight your bike can handle. Generally speaking, aim for under 20 lbs without the weight of the bicycle itself.

What Is the Difference Between Bikepacking and Bike Touring?

When it comes to long-distance traveling via roads, people usually refer to “bike touring”. This is when you go from one destination and return home without going off-road through trails or other difficult terrains. In contrast, the term for adventuring on mostly non-paved surfaces is “bikepacking”.

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Price last updated on 2023-12-04. Links & images are from Amazon Product Advertising API. Our editors independently research, test and recommend the best products and services. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article at no additional cost to you.

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