Bike Camping Checklist

Depending on where you're riding and how long you'll be out, shelter may be needed. There are lots of cool ultralight tents that are made specifically for bike camping. Topeak, MSR and many others… view entry > | edit entry >

This might come on your multitool, but if it does not, might be a good idea to pack one. If your wheel gets badly warped, this could come in handy. view entry > | edit entry >

Give your itinerary -- be specific -- to someone who is staying at home, and tell them when you expect to be off the trail. view entry > | edit entry >

Check to make sure there are no potential unsafe environmental conditions: floods, fires, severe storms, hunting season, etc. view entry > | edit entry >

This might sound like an inane suggestion, but this is a checklist, after all. Don't forget to bring a map. view entry > | edit entry >

After a hard day of exertion, you may have a craving for electrolytes. A chocolate bar or equivalent might be a nice thing. view entry > | edit entry >

Something small and lightweight is best, as it will take up less space. Inflatable mattresses pack way down. The Therm-a-Rest ProLite series are quite small, especially the shorter ones. view entry > | edit entry >

There are many ways to filter water in the backcountry. Consider bringing a backup system in case your fancy pump breaks midstream. Iodine tablets are good for this purpose. view entry > | edit entry >

A compact multitool that addresses most major needs without going overboard is probably best. The main manufacturers are Topeak, Crank Brothers, Park Tool and Spin Doctor. view entry > | edit entry >

A lightweight first aid kit that contains wound dressing materials, antibiotics, some painkillers, etc. view entry > | edit entry >

A loud whistle made specifically for back country travel could bail you out in an emergency. view entry > | edit entry >

Thin nylon cord can be used for many things -- lashing something together, staking out your tent fly, hanging your food to keep it away from critters. It's super lightweight and easily packable. view entry > | edit entry >

Some silver duct tape is always a good fail safe for things that break, whether it be part of your bike, or another piece of gear or clothing. You don't need to bring a whole roll (!) -- just make a… view entry > | edit entry >

A quick call to the relevant park or National Forest rangers to let them know that you'll be in the backcountry is a good idea, especially if you're headed out alone. view entry > | edit entry >

This might sound like an unnecessary thing to mention, but some blokes have been known to forget one. view entry > | edit entry >

Choosing a camping stove can be a confusing task, given the choices, and different opinions as to what's best for what situation. Generally speaking, for offroad biking, the lighter and more durable,… view entry > | edit entry >

There's a world of choice in the sleeping bag department. Something light and compact if best for bike camping, so that it can be easily stuffed in a pannier, or put in a compression sack and strapped… view entry > | edit entry >

A few bike spokes, taped to the body of your bike, or stuffed into a pannier, could come in handy in case of catastrophic wheel damage. One thing to consider: if you break a spoke on the cassette side… view entry > | edit entry >

Recommend a full-size Bic lighter. Useful for mending loose threads, lighting a fire, and opening beer bottles as well as many other useful tasks. view entry > | edit entry >