What gear should I bring?
Travel light, bring what matters.
To help you get organized, you’ll find a suggested packing list below. It’s designed for a bike trip of a few days to a week, and especially suited to cyclists camping along the way.
You'll also find some tips at the end on how to efficiently pack your panniers.
Sample packing list for 5 days of summer camping
👕 Clothing
We recommend having one outfit for cycling during the day and another to wear in the evening after your shower, or on days when you're not riding. By rotating and washing a few key items along the way, you can save both space and weight in your panniers.
- Helmet
- Sunglasses
- T-shirts ×3
Include one long-sleeved shirt to protect against sunburn or cooler temperatures. Choose quick-drying fabrics like merino wool, which also resists odors. - Down jacket ×1
Lightweight and compressible — perfect for chilly evenings or mid-day breaks. - Padded cycling underwear
Worn like regular underwear under your shorts — helps prevent saddle soreness. - Underwear ×2
- Shorts ×2
- Pants ×1
- Socks ×3
- Pair of athletic shoes
For example, running shoes. - Pair of lightweight shoes or sandals
Ideal to slip on at the end of the day.
🧼 Hygiene
- Toothbrush
Ultralight tip: cutting it in half can save a few grams... your call! - Toothpaste
- Shower gel – shampoo
Or go for solid versions. - Microfiber towel
- Half a roll of toilet paper
- First aid kit
Blister plasters, antiseptic, 2 sterile compresses, medical tape, tick remover, nail clippers, etc.
🥄 Food & cooking
- Knife
- Spoon + fork
Tip: lightweight and durable bamboo cutlery works perfectly. - Gas stove and cooking pot
- Sealable bowl
Can be used as a plate and also to store salads or leftovers for your next meal.
⛺ Camping gear
- Tent
- Sleeping mat
- Sleeping bag
A comfort rating of 10°C is usually enough for summer, when morning temperatures can drop below 15°C. - Pillow
Ultralight tip: stuff your down jacket into your sleeping bag’s compression sack to make a makeshift pillow. - Sitpad
A handy accessory for sitting anywhere — damp benches, grass, etc. Tip: you can easily make one by cutting up an old foam sleeping mat. - Headlamp
🔧 Repair & tools
- Bungee cords
Useful for strapping gear on top of your rear rack. - Foldable tote bag
Always handy for grocery runs or supply stops! - Zip ties ×2
Versatile and great for quick repairs. - Inner tubes ×2
- Mini hand pump
- Puncture repair kit
- Multi-tool
- Spare bolts
Other essentials
- Compact wallet
- Smartphone + charger
- Paperback book or e-reader
- Small key lock
- Bike lock
- EU to UK power adapter
Packing your panniers smartly…
Rule #1: Keep the items you use most often at the top of your panniers.
For example, your rain gear should always be easy to grab.
Rule #2: Stick to the same packing system every day.
It saves time and helps you avoid losing things. Welcome to your new morning ritual. 😉
Rule #3: Leave a little extra room in your panniers.
You'll need space for food or supplies picked up during the ride.
Rule #4: Don’t overpack with non-essential items.
Bring a few personal comfort items if you must — but bulky gadgets or entertainment? You won’t miss them. Bike travel never gets boring!
Rule #5: Accept that you might forget something — and don’t stress.
You’re not cycling to the North Pole. If you forget something, you’ll likely find it along the way. 🛒
Example setup
Bike equipped with two rear panniers and a front basket.
