From Howard Foltz ……….. Subject:Packing for Bike Trip
PACKING LIST FOR WEEK LONG BIKE TRIP
The following list of items is a compilation from my experiences on previous bike tours as to what to pack. I have ridden five different state tours, (Missouri, Indiana, Virginia, Wisconsin, Ohio) and have learned on each and every one. It is not exhaustive, nor is it mandatory to follow. However, all mentioned items should fit into one large duffle bag which you can carry to and from the luggage truck. Hope this is helpful.
CLOTHING
cycling shorts (at least 3 pr), cycling socks (at least 3 pr), cycling shirts (at least 3), windbreaker/rain jacket, running/street shoes, cycling tights, cycling shoes, under wear, T- shirts & shorts, long pants (1), long sleeve shirt (1), sandals/thongs/flipflops, cap/hat
CAMPING GEAR
tent w/ rainfly & stakes, sleeping bag, ground cloth, sleep sack, clothesline, clothespins (at least 12), plastic bags of all sizes, extra water bottle (for night use), flashlight, pocket knife, duct tape, pillow, lotion
PERSONAL ITEMS
ID & money, credit card, insurance card, sunglasses, sunscreen, chapstick, insect repellent, travel kit, hand towel, bath towels (2), wash cloth, Mycetracin/Cortaid, disposable camera
BICYCLE
Helmet, frame pump, cyclometer, extra tube, water bottles (2), pressure gauge, allen wrenches, gloves (2 pair), tire patch kit, garbage bag to cover bike, handle bar, fanny or back-rack bag
Use plastic bags to pack everything in. You can even put breadwrappers on your feet before you put on your shoes to keep them dry if it is raining. I pack a shirt, shorts, socks and undershorts in each bag. That way, if your large duffel bag gets wet, everything inside will stay dry. I will take at least 4 of everything. We should be able to do laundry along the way. I personally have never used a rain coat on any tour, (probably could have a couple of times). Thongs/sandals/flipflops are great to cary in your bike bag because they are so light and you can put them on when you stop for lunch breaks. If feels good to take off your shoes and socks especially if they are wet! You might want to take a disposable camera and film. I also recommend taking Mycetracin anti-bacterial jell or Cortaid, Advil, Ben-Gay, Visine, and A & D ointment. I will take a cap of some kind to wear on lunch breaks, etc. Also keep in mind what ever you are wearing when we leave home, you have to pack along the tour (shoes, etc.) As to how much money to take, I would recommend between $250 – 400. Some people don’t want to use credit cards, so they spend cash for everything. Keep in mind, we are buying our meals everyday. I estimate we will spend around $10 – 15 per day on food. Also, usually at camp, there are vendors where you can buy cycling clothes and equipment. If you need more money, you can go to the ATM machine along the way.