In panniers and a trailer, lightweight bike packing bags, or maybe a shirt pocket cycling? We advise you on how to carry your luggage on a bike and what to take on a bike trip.
The amount and type of equipment depending on the type rather than the length of the bicycle tour. The trips to warm countries "on the road" and the madness on Alpine paths with MTB bikes are becoming more and more popular. In both cases, let's stop at the basic equipment, without which you should not even move around the city.
They consist of:
helmet
gloves
cycling glasses that protect your eyes from the sun and insects
shorts with an insert (so-called pampers)
lights
pump
an inner tube or a set of patches
tire spoons
multitool
chain connector and chain clip
insulation tape, which is useful in the least expected moments
a light jacket fits in the pocket of a cycling jersey
A bottle with water or isotonic drink is obvious, although I recommend Nalgene bottles (or similar). They do not contain a harmful BPA compound, do not stink, do not get a mouthpiece in them, and at night can serve as a hot water bottle.
What to take on a several-day cycling trip
A camping set is required for a multi-day trip: a tent, a sleeping bag, a mat, a stove.
The bicycle lamp can be replaced with a strong headlamp, which can easily be mounted on the steering wheel, and later used in a tent.
It is better to have a paper map at the ready, but we often navigate with the help of a telephone. So you cannot do without a power bank (at least 10,000 mAh), you also need a phone holder for the frame.
The steering wheel should be equipped with corners that allow you to change the position of the hands, which helps a lot during long distances. In turn, the mirror will improve safety, as well as a reflective vest, which is obligatory in many countries.
For longer trips, take chain lubricant and patch of patches.
What to take to the first aid kit
Let's take the most-needed medicines to the first aid kit: paracetamol, aspirin, naproxen for aching muscles, ointment soothing saddings and burns, and cream with a filter to prevent them. A flexible bandage, patches and hydrogen peroxide will also be useful. In my panniers, there are also mosquito repellents that soothe bites and lime for sensitization.
While driving, we drink from a few to a dozen or so gallons of water a day. Minerals will supplement with isotonics in powder or tablets.
How to dress for a bike trip
The choice of clothing is an individual matter, but rather a thin windbreaker and shorts are not enough. I bring a jacket from the rain, an ultra-light down, thermoactive underwear with long sleeves and two T-shirts. Trekking pants with detachable trouser legs and buff are great.
How to carry luggage on a bike
Cyclists usually pack in panniers. Recently, however, bike packing is becoming fashionable. The idea is to make the bike lighter and more agile, and consequently - reach where we could not get dopuczeniśmy. Small bags mounted in the frame, on the steering wheel, and under the saddle enforce maximum equipment limitation.
In the beginning, it's better to try a traditional trip with panniers on the trunk. In the supermarket, we will get a basic set for a few dozen zlotys, but the sky is more comfortable branded, waterproof bags.
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