Packing for Your Bike Tour

Additionally, you should bring along a small backpack to access throughout the day. You will see the support vehicle about every 15 miles during each ride, so you can use this daypack to store extra layers, wallet or other items you don’t necessarily need to carry on your bike. 

If you plan on driving and extending your vacation, we recommend packing a separate suitcase for those extra days, if necessary. Please keep that bag in your own vehicle for when you return. 

The best layering systems for cycling are lightweight and wicking base layers closest to your skin, mid-layers to keep you warm, and then an optional waterproof shell, or rain jacket, to keep you dry. 

For your base layer, bring short and long sleeve biking jerseys or moisture wicking fabric shirts. A light to medium fleece is great for a mid-layer and packable rain jackets and rain pants are a must-bring for a waterproof outer layer. Even if the forecast looks clear, there is always a possibility of a stray rain shower here and there! Don’t forget non-cotton cycling socks as well.

Wool or synthetic materials are best; we don’t recommend cycling in cotton. Wool is naturally antibacterial and can be worn for multiple days in a row without smelling bad, which is a great way to keep your packing light and efficient. On the other hand, synthetics dry a bit faster and can be lighter than wool. 

Once you have your laying system down, consider what you can wear more than once, what will be easy to rinse and if there are any items you definitely can’t use more than once. 

If you tend to get cold easily and forecasted temperatures are below 65 degrees, make sure to pack heavier mid-layers to help you stay comfortable. For many spring and fall trips, the days tend to start out chilly, and become warm by the afternoon so it’s important to think about your layers. You can always shed and throw anything in the van during support stops.

Gloves, hats and socks may be key for days with changing temperatures. Cycling arm sleeves are a nice option for sun protection and as an item easily shed for a warm afternoon. They are lightweight, multi-functional and don’t take up much space

As far as casual clothing, it’s best to carefully plan mix-n-match items so that you can re-wear a few pieces throughout your trip. Just a couple of neutral pants, nice short and long sleeve shirts, and a sweater go a long way! And, of course, don’t forget your undergarments. 

Depending on your tour, there may be laundry options. You can use your Ride with GPS Experience to see those options, and plan laundry days if needed. You can always plan to do a little hand wash if needed too. 

We have laid out recommended quantities for each of these clothing items in your packing checklist, so make sure you check those out! 

If you are riding your own bike, please make sure you have a spare tube for your tires. If you plan to rent a bike through us, you may wish to bring clipless pedals and personal bike seat if that is what you prefer. The rental bikes have flat pedals, but our guides are happy to switch out pedals and seats. We have helmets available if you don’t wish to bring your own.

For biking accessories, we have several highly recommended items listed in your packing checklist, including items that help with navigating on your phone, like a small portable charger and phone handlebar mount. Other recommended items help you stay more comfortable while riding.

You may bring any additional accessories that you use on rides back home, like a bike computer, hydration pack, or mirror. These are entirely optional items, so these would be the first to go if your bag is getting too packed or heavy. 

Refer to the full list of required, highly recommended and optional accessories in your packing checklist. 

Personal Items 

Last but not least make sure to bring along your most important personal items, like medication, glasses and deodorant just to name a few. We provide communal basic sunscreen, bug spray and hand sanitizer, so don’t worry about those.

First and foremost, lay out everything in front of you as you start the packing process. This allows you to truly see what you are planning to take and pare down anything extra. For instance, the one pair of slacks you plan to bring goes well with the three shirts, and even the sweater. So the second pair of pants really isn’t needed. Great for outfit planning to get multiple uses out of singular items, and keeping everything as minimal as possible. 

One of our favorite ways to pack clothing is by rolling it into tight bundles. This helps maximize space and avoid wrinkles. Another great way is to use packing cubes to organize outfits, as well as compress the clothes a little bit. 

Additionally, buy a dedicated toiletry bag that fits all of your essential personal items and fits neatly into your bag.  This avoids important items being lost in the abyss of your luggage, and keeps them handy. 

As we’ve stated, any gear that you will be regularly using during rides can go in your day backpack if you have run out of space in your luggage. 

Once everything is packed, you are ready to hit the road for your biking vacation! If you have any additional questions, please refer to the packing checklist and don’t hesitate to reach out to your tour reservation specialists.