What to Carry On Your Bike On A Supported Cycling Tour

HOW TO PREPARE: An 8 part series to get you ready for your first TDA tour. Click here to read more.

One of the nice things about a fully supported cycling tour is that you really don’t need to carry panniers loaded down with all your gear. You can simply enjoy the day without numerous jars of peanut butter weighing you down. That being said, even if you do have a support vehicle near by, there are a few things you will want to carry with you to ensure you have a comfortable, fun and safe ride.

Here is a list of items we highly recommend you carry with you at all times:

• Water
• Phone or GPS
• Money
• Address of your day’s destination
• Personal identification
• First aid kit (Refer to Health and Medical prep blog)
• Flat repair kit (How to fix a flat tire)
• Spare tube
• Mini pump
• Multi tool
• Hand sanitizer
• Snack

There are some other items you may also want to consider:

• Spare parts
• Whistle
• Extra layer of clothing
• Rain gear
• Cycling gloves
• Extra pair of socks
• Cable lock
• Camera
• Sunblock
• Wet wipes
• Lucky penny

BIKE BAGS

There is a huge selection of bike bags that are light, practical and very versatile. The one you choose will come down to personal preference and how much gear you want to carry with you.

Here is a list of some great options ranging from small bags to classic panniers and some ideas of which items you could put in them:

• Handlebar bag: map, money, sunblock, snack, first aid kit, camera.
• Seat bag: flat repair kit, multi tool, ID.
• Frame bag: raincoat, mini pump, spare tube.
• Top tube bag: snacks, phone, money, whistle.
• Light backpack/hydration pack: water bladder, arm warmers, snack, extra socks.
• Panniers, front or back: all of the above

Check out this quick video I did on cycling bags!

Every rider has their own way of packing gear and certain items will have more importance to some then to others. I know for myself that my sunblock is always within easy reach as I need to reapply it often! Next time you’re on a longer ride imagine yourself on your next tour. What item might you want within easy reach?

How to Prepare

An 8 part series to get you ready for your first TDA tour. Click here to read more.