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. 1
Bestseller No. 3
Topeak   TC2261B Aero Wedge Pack with Strap...
Topeak  TC2261B Aero Wedge Pack with Strap...
Pack attaches with Velcro strap mount and snap-on buckles
$22.84
  • Handlebar Bag
Bestseller No. 2
Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag Bicycle Front Bag...
Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag Bicycle Front Bag...
【Material】900D polyester. 24.5*10cm(diameter). It weighs only 160g
$21.99
  • Water Bottle Cage
SaleBestseller No. 1
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SaleBestseller No. 3

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.

Bestseller 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.
$49.89
SaleBestseller No. 2
SaleBestseller No. 3
Troy Lee Designs A1 Half Face Mountain Bike Helmet...
Troy Lee Designs A1 Half Face Mountain Bike Helmet...
SAFETY: reinforced polycarbonate shell in-molded, EPS liner on sides and back; COMFORT: Single piece, ultra plush, removable and washable comfort liner. Adjustable visor
$105.00 −$60.03 $44.97

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.

  • Bike Light
SaleBestseller No. 1
Bestseller No. 2
NiteRider Lumina 1200 Boost USB Rechargeable Bike...
NiteRider Lumina 1200 Boost USB Rechargeable Bike...
Important: the Lumina 1200 boost is set to lock mode at the Factory. Unlock before use.; All new collimator lens, Distributes a generous even widespread beam pattern
$69.95
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Headlamp
SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 2

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
Bestseller No. 3
Garmin Edge Explore - Touchscreen Touring Bike...
Garmin Edge Explore - Touchscreen Touring Bike...
Built-in GPS tracks how far, how fast, how high and where you ride
$139.99

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
CORE 9 Person Extended Dome Tent - 16' x 9'
CORE 9 Person Extended Dome Tent - 16' x 9'
Sleeps 9 people; Fits three queen air mattresses; Center Height: 72 inches; Electrical cord access port (port is fully closable when not in use)
$149.99 −$50.00 $99.99
Bestseller No. 2
Coleman Sundome 6-Person Dome Tent , Navy/Grey, 6...
Coleman Sundome 6-Person Dome Tent , Navy/Grey, 6...
Spacious 6 person tent has enough room for 2 queen size air beds; WeatherTec system with patented corner welds and inverted seams keeps you dry
$149.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Hammock
SaleBestseller No. 2
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Tarp
Bestseller No. 2
Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp - 8 ft X 10...
Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp - 8 ft X 10...
Multi-purpose outdoor tarp is great for covering items or placement under a camping tent; Reinforced corners and edges for long-lasting strength
$31.55
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Sleeping Bag
SaleBestseller No. 2
SaleBestseller No. 3

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
Bestseller No. 1
Men's Mesh Tank Top Quick Wicking Jersey...
Men's Mesh Tank Top Quick Wicking Jersey...
Flat Lock Seams Prevents Chafing For Absolute Comfort. And Tag-Free Printed Crew Neck,
$33.99
Bestseller No. 2
Cutter & Buck Men's Moisture Wicking UPF 50+...
Cutter & Buck Men's Moisture Wicking UPF 50+...
Dry Tec; Uv protection of 50+ UPF; Moisture wicking; Side vents; Matte look & natural hand feel
$62.97
Bestseller No. 3
Majestic Athletic Wicking Youth Large Seattle...
Majestic Athletic Wicking Youth Large Seattle...
Cool and Comfortable Top for Fans to Support their Favorite Team; Short Sleeve Crewneck Jersey T-Shirt Available in Youth S, L, XL and Adult M, L, 3X
$29.95
  • Padded Shorts
SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 2
  • Cycling Tights
Bestseller No. 2
BALEAF Men's Yoga Leggings Running Tights with...
BALEAF Men's Yoga Leggings Running Tights with...
Big side pockets are available for 4",4.7",5",5.5" Mobile Phone
$27.99
Bestseller No. 3
PEARL IZUMI Women's Wander Tight, Dark Denim/Navy,...
PEARL IZUMI Women's Wander Tight, Dark Denim/Navy,...
Soft, high-stretch double-knit fabric; 27” inseam length (Size M)
$44.99
  • Sports Bra
SaleBestseller No. 1
Under Armour Women's Crossback Mid Impact Sports...
Under Armour Women's Crossback Mid Impact Sports...
Crossover straps with updated keyhole detail for easier on/off; Updated interior construction helps keep pads in place—during wear & wash
$35.00 −$17.50 $17.50
SaleBestseller No. 2
Bestseller No. 3
Hanes Women's Racerback Bralette Pack, Stretch...
Hanes Women's Racerback Bralette Pack, Stretch...
SO SOFT AGAINST YOUR SKIN - Soft, breathable knit with wide, smooth no-dig T-back straps.; FOR LAYERING OR SOLOING - Wear as a bra, as a workout top, or a crop top.
$14.94
  • Socks
Bestseller No. 2
Smartwool Bike Zero Cushion Crew Socks - Men's...
Smartwool Bike Zero Cushion Crew Socks - Men's...
Sock Cushion: Zero Cushion, Indestructawool technology with extended durability zones; Sock Height: Crew
$22.00
  • Mountain Bike Shoes
Bestseller 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.
$66.78
Bestseller No. 2
Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Men's,...
Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Men's,...
Everyday comfort and pedal-gripping control; Non-marking rubber: Stealth Phantom offers unbeatable grip and non-marking utility
$48.88
SaleBestseller No. 3
SHIMANO SH-MX100 Multi-Use Off-Road Cycling Shoe,...
SHIMANO SH-MX100 Multi-Use Off-Road Cycling Shoe,...
Versatile Cycling Shoe: built for a wider range of off-road cycling uses; SPD Cleat: compatible with most clip-in pedal systems
$80.00 −$16.00 $64.00
  • Bike Gloves
SaleBestseller No. 1
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  • Rain Jacket
SaleBestseller No. 1
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 −$13.70 $46.30
Bestseller No. 2
Bestseller No. 3
Champion mens Stadium Packable , Left Chest Script...
Champion mens Stadium Packable , Left Chest Script...
FABRIC TO FEEL GOOD ABOUT - 100% recycled polyester is a good idea.; EASY MACHINE CARE - Toss it in the washing machine.
  • Rain Pants
  • Warm Hat
Bestseller No. 1
Carhartt Men's Knit Cuffed Beanie, Dark...
Carhartt Men's Knit Cuffed Beanie, Dark...
Carhartt label sewn on front; Prev. Name: Acrylic Watch Hat
$19.99
SaleBestseller No. 2
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Travel Towel
SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 2
  • Sunglasses

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
Bestseller No. 1
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Backpacking and Camping...
Jetboil Genesis Basecamp Backpacking and Camping...
Only use outdoors in a well-ventilated area.; Compatible with standard 16.4 oz propane bottle
$399.95
Bestseller No. 2
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove...
Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove...
Bottom cup doubles as a measuring cup and a bowl.
$125.01
Bestseller No. 3
Jetboil Flash Java Kit Cooking System, Ecto Green
Jetboil Flash Java Kit Cooking System, Ecto Green
Convenient and reliable pushbutton igniter starts heating instantly; Thermochromic color-change heat indicator verifies that the water's ready
$138.70
  • 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...
12 Pack - Comes 12 pc of 100 Gram Gas One's Isobutane fuel
$65.99
  • Lighter
SaleBestseller No. 1
LcFun Waterproof Lighter Outdoor Windproof Lighter...
LcFun Waterproof Lighter Outdoor Windproof Lighter...
Warning: Do not use it with metal products.
$14.99 −$6.00 $8.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
  • Spork
SaleBestseller No. 3
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
  • Mug
SaleBestseller No. 1
HYDAWAY Collapsible Drink Tumbler | Portable,...
HYDAWAY Collapsible Drink Tumbler | Portable,...
1-YEAR WARRANTY | Our USA-based team stands behind every product we make
$29.95 −$2.00 $27.95
  • Nutrition Bars
SaleBestseller No. 2
Pure Protein Bars, High Protein, Nutritious Snacks...
Pure Protein Bars, High Protein, Nutritious Snacks...
NEW LOOK! You will receive (12) Pure Protein Bars, Chewy Chocolate Chip, 1.76oz
$20.22 −$3.23 $16.99
Bestseller No. 3
ZonePerfect Protein Bars, 12g Protein, 18 Vitamins...
ZonePerfect Protein Bars, 12g Protein, 18 Vitamins...
12 GRAMS OF PROTEIN: to help manage hunger; B VITAMINS: to support energy metabolism; 18 VITAMINS & MINERALS: including vitamin C and zinc to support a healthy immune system
$21.96
  • Camping Food
Bestseller No. 1
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet | Freeze Dried...
Mountain House Breakfast Skillet | Freeze Dried...
RECYCLABLE - Recycled used packaging with TerraCycle to reduce waste
$9.97
SaleBestseller No. 2
Mountain House Essential Bucket | Freeze Dried...
Mountain House Essential Bucket | Freeze Dried...
RECYCLABLE - Recycled used pouches with TerraCycle to reduce waste.
$119.00 −$8.30 $110.70
Bestseller No. 3
Mountain House Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken |...
Mountain House Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken |...
RECYCLABLE - Recycle used packaging with TerraCycle to reduce waste.
$11.50
  • Can Opener
SaleBestseller No. 2
SaleBestseller No. 3

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 Filtration System
SaleBestseller No. 1
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SaleBestseller No. 3

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
  • Shampoo
Bestseller No. 2
The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body...
The Honest Company 2-in-1 Cleansing Shampoo + Body...
Gentle for baby; Perfect for sensitive skin; Dermatologist-tested; Hypoallergenic; No synthetic fragrances; Tear-free
$10.97
Bestseller No. 3
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
$72.47
  • Toothbrush, Toothpaste Kit
SaleBestseller 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
$31.96 −$14.04 $17.92
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 −$3.95 $16.00
Bestseller No. 3
Colgate Max Fresh Wisp Disposable Mini Toothbrush,...
Colgate Max Fresh Wisp Disposable Mini Toothbrush,...
Just brushed clean anytime anywhere; Clean and Freshens on the go; Single use travel toothbrush
$16.39
  • Face Surgical Masks
Bestseller No. 1
Disposable Face Mask, 100 PCS Black Masks, 3 Ply...
Disposable Face Mask, 100 PCS Black Masks, 3 Ply...
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
$6.99
SaleBestseller No. 2
  • Hand Sanitizer and Antibacterial Wipes
Bestseller No. 1
Alta + Antibacterial Hand Wipes 90 Wipes (3)
Alta + Antibacterial Hand Wipes 90 Wipes (3)
Without harsh chemicals and Alcohol Free formula, does not dry hands; Resealable Package, Large Single wet Towels, 5.5 x 6.5 inches
$11.99
Bestseller No. 2
Purell Hand Sanitizing Wipes, Clean Refreshing...
Purell Hand Sanitizing Wipes, Clean Refreshing...
Case includes: 6 - 20 count PURELL Hand Sanitizing Wipes
$17.99
SaleBestseller No. 3
Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes, Fresh Scent...
Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes, Fresh Scent...
KILLS 99.99% OF GERMS* — While wiping away dirt and messes; WET ONES TRAVEL PACK HAND SANITIZING WIPES — Leave hands feeling smooth, soft, and clean
$22.99 −$3.29 $19.70
  • Insect Repellent
Bestseller No. 1
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol, Dry,...
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol, Dry,...
DEET mosquito repellent formulated with 25% DEET; Repels mosquitoes that may carry the Zika, Dengue, or West Nile viruses
$12.99
SaleBestseller No. 2
SaleBestseller No. 3
OFF! Botanicals Insect Repellent, Plant-Based Bug...
OFF! Botanicals Insect Repellent, Plant-Based Bug...
Made with a plant-based active ingredient and contains no added dyes; Pump spritz allows for easy application and won�t damage clothing or gear
$7.50 −$0.52 $6.98
  • Common or Prescription Medications
  • 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
$11.75
SaleBestseller No. 2
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant...
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant...
Twin Pack 25% Value; Helioplex(R) Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB; Lightweight Clean Feel, Fast Absorbing
$19.18 −$4.21 $14.97
  • Toilet paper
SaleBestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 2

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.

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 2023-06-03. 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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