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Home » Blog » Cycling » Bikes & Cycling Gear Tips & Guides

How to Plan the Ultimate Mountain Bike Road Trip

• By Bram Verweij
• Bikes & Cycling Gear Tips & Guides

Table of Contents

A Journey Like No Other

Are you ready for an epic adventure? Pack your bags, grab your bike, and buckle up because it’s time to hit the road.

A mountain bike road trip is not just a regular vacation. It’s a journey that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, challenge your riding skills, and provide unforgettable memories.

A mountain bike road trip can be defined as a multi-day cycling journey that takes riders from one destination to another, exploring trails and terrains along the way. Unlike traditional vacations where relaxation is the primary goal, on a mountain bike road trip, thrill-seekers get their adrenaline fix while enjoying nature’s beauty.

Why Planning Ahead is Crucial

When it comes to planning a mountain bike road trip, preparation is key. You don’t want to find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere without essential gear or end up biking on trails that are too difficult for your skill level.

Planning ahead allows you to anticipate potential challenges and make informed decisions about the routes you take, accommodations you choose, and gear you pack. Before embarking on this adventure of a lifetime, there are several things to consider when planning your ultimate mountain bike road trip:

Destination Matters

Choosing where to go on your mountain biking adventure is crucial. Researching popular destinations can help narrow down options based on factors such as terrain type (e.g., cross-country vs downhill), difficulty level (beginner vs advanced), weather conditions (dry vs rainy), and trail accessibility.

Consider destinations like Moab in Utah if you’re looking for challenging terrain or Sedona in Arizona if scenic views are more appealing. Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia has become renowned worldwide for its gravity park with over 200km of lift-accessed trails.

Mountain biking requires specific gear, and a road trip is no different. Before you hit the open road, make sure you have all essential gear on hand: helmets, cycling shoes, protective eyewear, hydration backpacks, repair kits, and bike racks.

When packing your bags for a cycling trip keep in mind the essentials that will help you get through it: appropriate clothing for the region’s climate (such as rain jackets or warm clothes), toiletries like sunscreen or insect repellent if needed), food snacks for long rides along with energy bars. Always try to pack lightly so that your gear doesn’t weigh you down.

Plotting Your Route

Planning your route ahead of time can save time and prevent getting lost on unfamiliar terrain. Use online resources like Trailforks or MTB Project to discover new trails in destinations. Once you’ve chosen where to go and what trails to take on this journey with, sit down with a map and plot out your route.

Consider factors such as elevation gain/loss and distance between destinations. You’ll also want to research trail closures due to seasonal changes or maintenance.

Accommodations

Choosing accommodation is another key factor in planning a mountain bike trip. There are several options available depending on budget: camping grounds (for those who want adventure), affordable hotels/motels/B&Bs which offer cycling amenities (bike storage) to high-end resorts that cater specifically towards biking tourists. Whatever accommodations work best for you be sure they are biker-friendly with features including secure bike storage areas designed specifically for bikers so that your bike remains intact when not being used.

Safety First

Safety precautions shouldn’t be overlooked when planning a mountain bike road trip. Make sure all safety equipment is accessible before hitting the road: first aid kit complete with bandages, gauze, medication for minor injuries (like pain relief), and a multi-tool.

Familiarize yourself with the area’s emergency services and how to call for help before setting out. In addition to having proper safety equipment on hand take precautions while driving to your destination.

Make sure the bikes are secured safely on your vehicle with a bike rack or a hitch mount. You can also opt for renting a vehicle that is equipped with racks to transport bikes safely.

Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker or just starting out, planning your ultimate mountain bike road trip is essential in making it an unforgettable experience. By choosing the right destination, packing appropriate gear and taking safety precautions seriously you’ll be sure to have the time of your life!

Choosing Your Destination

One of the most important aspects of planning a mountain bike road trip is choosing your destination. There are countless options throughout the world, so it’s important to do some research and carefully consider your options before settling on a location.

Researching popular mountain biking destinations

The first step in selecting a destination for your mountain bike road trip is to research popular biking areas. Some of the most well-known spots in the United States include Moab, Utah, Sedona, Arizona, and Lake Tahoe, California.

In Europe, popular destinations include the Swiss Alps and the French Pyrenees. Do some online research or talk to fellow bikers for suggestions on top mountain biking areas within your budget range.

Considering factors such as terrain, difficulty level and weather conditions

When selecting a destination for your mountain bike road trip it’s essential to consider factors such as terrain, difficulty level and weather conditions. You want to ensure that the trails you choose are suitable for your skill level and physical abilities. If you’re an experienced rider looking for a challenge then you may want to consider more technical terrain such as rocky descents or steep climbs.

However if you’re new to mountain biking then beginner-friendly locations like Whistler in Canada or Bend in Oregon are great starting points. You should also check weather reports before making reservations; avoid regions with heavy rainfall during your planned travel date because muddy trails can create dangerous conditions.

The terrain of any potential destination should be considered both overall (such as forests vs deserts) but also specific trails within that area (such as cross-country vs downhill). If you enjoy high-speed descents with jumps or rocks then focus on areas with more downhill trails like Pisgah in North Carolina. However, bikers who enjoy more endurance-based rides or cross-country rides would want to look for flatter, more wooded areas such as the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Difficulty Level

Difficulty level is not only important for safety but also enjoyment! If trails are too difficult then you may find yourself walking your bike too much or feeling burned out. Conversely, if trails are too easy then you can feel underwhelmed and not be challenged enough physically and mentally.

Most biking spots have a grading system (such as green, blue and black) to indicate difficulty level. You should select a destination that offers a range of trails suitable for your skill level; it’s always good to challenge yourself but do so within reason.

Weather Conditions

The weather is an important aspect when considering your destination. Not only can rain ruin your ride, it can also make the trail conditions dangerous and uncomfortable. Make sure to check temperature averages and precipitation levels during your planned trip dates.

Certain spots are seasonally heavy with snowfall like Tahoe City in California, which may impact available biking terrain depending on what time of year you’re planning trip. After researching popular destinations while considering factors such as terrain, difficulty level and weather conditions you will have narrowed down some options for potential mountain bike road trip locations!

Preparing Your Gear

Packing for a mountain bike road trip can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what gear you’ll need. Proper preparation is key to having a successful trip, and there are a few essential items that should always make it onto your packing list.

Essential Gear for a Mountain Bike Road Trip

The most important piece of equipment for any mountain biker is, of course, their bike. Make sure it’s in good condition before hitting the road, and bring along any necessary tools and spare parts.

You never know when you might need to fix a flat tire or adjust your brakes. You’ll also want to pack appropriate clothing for the weather conditions you’ll encounter on your trip.

Lightweight layers are key as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Don’t forget proper shoes and gloves – they can make all the difference in terms of comfort and control while on the trails.

If you plan on camping during your trip, invest in high-quality camping gear such as a tent that is easy to set up and comfortable sleeping bags. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellant, and first aid supplies.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

When it comes time to pack everything into your vehicle, it’s important to do so in an organized manner. Start by making a list of everything you need to bring with you on your trip – this will help ensure that nothing is forgotten.

To save space inside your vehicle or trailer (and avoid potential damage), consider investing in bike racks or mounts that attach directly to your car’s roof or hitch receiver. This will allow you more room inside the car for other essentials like food and clothing.

You can also save space by using compression sacks when packing clothing. These are designed to compress items down to a smaller size, making them easier to pack and transport.

Another space-saving tip is to pack snacks and non-perishable food items that don’t require refrigeration, such as trail mix, energy bars and jerky. Make sure everything is secured in place before hitting the road – the last thing you want is for your bike or gear to shift around while you’re driving.

Take some time to double-check that everything is strapped down tightly and won’t shift or fall during transit. By following these tips and taking the time to properly prepare your gear, you’ll be ready for anything that comes your way on your mountain bike road trip.

Mapping Out Your Route

After you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to map out your route. You’ll want to take into consideration the trails and routes that suit your skill level. Thankfully, there are plenty of online resources available to help you plan.

Using Online Resources to Plan Your Route

The first resource you should utilize is Trailforks. This website and app will give you access to over 200,000 mountain bike trails all over the world.

You can filter by location, trail difficulty, and even type of riding (cross-country, downhill, etc.). Trailforks also includes a trail map feature that allows you to see which trails are in close proximity to each other.

Another useful resource is MTB Project. This website provides detailed trail descriptions and ratings submitted by riders themselves.

MTB Project also has a feature that allows you to create a custom route based on the trails in an area. Don’t forget about Google Maps.

While not specifically designed for mountain biking, Google Maps can be a helpful tool for finding biking routes in an unfamiliar area. Simply search for “bike routes” or “bike trails” in the search bar.

Finding Trails and Routes That Suit Your Skill Level

When planning your route, it’s important to choose trails that are appropriate for your skill level. If you’re a beginner or intermediate rider, look for green or blue-rated trails on Trailforks or MTB Project.

These will typically be less technical with fewer obstacles. For more advanced riders looking for a challenge, seek out black-rated trails or double diamonds on Trailforks or MTB Project.

These will offer more technical features like rocky descents and steep drops. Be sure to also take into account the length of each trail when planning your route.

Make sure you don’t bite off more than you can chew by planning shorter rides if you’re not used to long days in the saddle. Overall, taking the time to plan your route using online resources will help ensure that you have the best possible mountain biking experience on your road trip.

Finding Accommodation

One of the most important aspects of planning your ultimate mountain bike road trip is figuring out where you’ll be staying along the way. There are a variety of options available, from camping in the great outdoors to staying in hotels or other accommodations. Here are some tips for finding the perfect place to rest your head after a long day on the trails:

Camping is a great way to save money and get closer to nature during your road trip. There are many campsites located near popular mountain biking areas, and they often have amenities like showers, fire pits, and picnic tables. You can also choose between tent camping or bringing your own RV or camper.

When planning your camping accommodations, be sure to research campsite availability and make reservations as early as possible. Some popular areas may fill up quickly during peak season, so plan accordingly.

In addition to traditional campsites, there are also options like backcountry camping or dispersed camping for those who prefer a more rugged experience. Just be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check with local authorities for any regulations or permits needed.

Hotels and Other Accommodations

If you prefer a bit more comfort and luxury than camping can provide, there are plenty of hotels and other types of lodging available near popular mountain biking destinations. When researching hotels or other accommodations, it’s important to look for bike-friendly options that offer amenities like secure bike storage or bike washing stations. Some places may also offer shuttle services to nearby trails.

In addition to traditional hotels, there are also vacation rentals like cabins or condos available in many areas. These can be a great option if you’re traveling with a group or want more space than a hotel room provides.

Researching Bike-Friendly Accommodations

To find the best accommodations for your mountain bike road trip, it’s important to do your research ahead of time. Look for reviews from other mountain bikers, and check out websites like MTB Project or Trailforks for recommendations. You can also reach out to local bike shops or biking organizations in the area you’ll be visiting.

They may have suggestions for the best places to stay based on their own experiences. By taking the time to plan your accommodations ahead of time and doing some research, you can ensure that you have a comfortable place to rest each night during your ultimate mountain bike road trip.

Staying Safe on the Road

Tips for driving with bikes on the roof or back of your vehicle.

Driving with bikes on your roof or back of your vehicle can be a tricky business. You don’t want to damage your bike or cause an accident, so it’s important to take precautions. First, make sure you have a sturdy and reliable bike rack that is designed for the type of car you have.

A good bike rack will keep your bike from shifting while you’re driving and protect it from any damage. When loading your bike onto the rack, be careful not to scratch or dent it in the process.

Use soft straps that won’t damage paint and plastic parts of your bike. Also, be sure to secure all of the straps tightly so that they don’t come loose during transportation.

It’s also important to check if there are any low hanging obstacles like bridges under which you will drive. Some roads may also have height restrictions and going under them with bicycles mounted could result in accidents like bending forks etc.

In addition to having a reliable bike rack, consider using a cable lock or other security measure to prevent theft while traveling. You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your expensive gear!

Preparing for emergencies

No matter how well-planned your trip is, emergencies can happen at any time. Therefore it’s crucial that you prepare yourself beforehand by packing essential emergency supplies such as first aid kit, reflective vests and portable pump etc.

Also consider getting breakdown cover through an organization such as AAA before setting out on a long road trip along with mobile apps like Waze which provide real-time traffic info and alternate routes in case of traffic snarls or road closures due to accidents. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when traveling long distances with precious cargo such as bicycles so get service done before starting your trip and check tire pressure, brake system, suspension etc. This will help avoid unpleasant surprises during the trip.

You should also be familiar with basic bike repair skills such as fixing a puncture or reattaching a chain, so you can handle minor issues yourself instead of having to wait for someone to come and rescue you. By taking these precautionary measures, you’ll be able to enjoy a stress-free mountain bike road trip while staying safe on the road.

Exploring Local Attractions

When you’re on a mountain bike road trip, it’s important to take breaks and explore local attractions along the way. Here are some suggestions for non-biking activities that will give you a chance to relax and see some of the sights in the areas you’re visiting. One option is to check out local museums or galleries. Many places have small art museums with unique collections, such as Native American artifacts or modern art pieces. Visiting these places can give you an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of your destination. Another great way to break up your riding days is to visit parks or natural landmarks. Many mountain biking destinations are known for their beautiful scenery, and there are often hiking trails or other activities nearby. For example, Moab in Utah has several national parks with incredible rock formations; Sedona in Arizona offers hot air balloon rides over stunning red rock formations. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, consider going rafting, kayaking or zip-lining. These activities can be a fun way to get outdoors and experience nature while taking a break from biking. And of course, no road trip would be complete without visiting local food and drink spots! From craft breweries to roadside diners, there’s always something new and delicious to try at each stop on your journey.

Recommendations for Local Food and Drink Spots

“fuel up on delicious eats”.

When planning your mountain bike road trip, don’t forget about the importance of fueling up with good food! Here are some recommendations for food spots that will leave you feeling energized and ready for your next ride. First off, make sure to look up local farmers’ markets in each area you visit.

These markets have fresh produce, baked goods, and other foods that are perfect for picnics or snacking on-the-go. Plus, shopping at farmers’ markets supports local farmers and food producers.

If you’re looking for something heartier, seek out restaurants that specialize in local cuisine. For example, Jackson Hole in Wyoming is known for its bison burgers, while Asheville in North Carolina has a thriving farm-to-table food scene.

These types of restaurants often use seasonal ingredients and support sustainable agriculture practices. And let’s not forget about the importance of coffee!

Many small towns have local coffee shops with unique roasts and cozy atmospheres. When you need a caffeine boost before hitting the trails, these spots are a perfect choice.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who aren’t riding bikes with you every day, consider finding a food tour or cooking class to take together. These experiences can be fun ways to learn more about the local cuisine and culture while taking a break from biking.

Exploring local attractions and trying new foods are important parts of any road trip – especially a mountain bike road trip where you’ll be burning lots of calories! With these recommendations in mind, your next mountain bike road trip is sure to be filled with adventure both on and off the trails.

Planning a mountain bike road trip can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By taking the time to research destinations, prepare your gear, map out your route, find accommodation, and stay safe on the road, you can ensure that your trip is a success.

Remember to consider factors such as terrain, difficulty level, and weather conditions when choosing your destination. Make sure to pack efficiently and bring all the necessary gear for a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the trails.

Mapping out your route ahead of time will help you stay on track and find trails that are suited to your skill level. Consider camping or staying in bike-friendly accommodations along the way to make the most of your journey.

When it comes to staying safe on the road, always drive carefully with bikes securely fastened on top or behind your vehicle. Be prepared for emergencies by carrying essential items such as a first aid kit and extra water.

Don’t forget to take in all of the local attractions along the way. Whether it’s sampling local food or exploring non-biking activities like swimming in natural hot springs or hiking scenic areas nearby.

So go ahead and plan that ultimate mountain bike road trip! With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for an adventure that you’ll never forget!

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Bram Verweij

Hi, My name is Bram and I’m a travel addict, outdoor enthusiast and mountain biker. Yet despite all these adventures outside, my newfound passion remains writing about things that interest me. Outdoor equipment, travel accessories, sports stuff, you name it. I’ve become somewhat of an expert and I’m always eager to share my opinion with fellow mountain bikers, outdoor sport and travel enthusiasts.

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A mountain bike world champion’s perfect road trip

2018 Elite World Champion Kate Courtney plots her perfect mountain bike road trip in the western U.S.

By Kate Courtney

Start: Mt. Tamalpais, California

End: Moab, Utah

Total distance: 1,701 miles

Stop 1: Mt. Tamalpais in Marin County, California

While Marin is known for many things, including a beautiful coastline and miles of scenic hiking trails, its rich mountain bike history is often overlooked. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the sport of mountain biking started to emerge as locals took vintage single speeds off road. The first official downhill series was held in Marin on a fire road now called Repack, because riders allegedly had to repack their brakes with grease after each run. Now, Marin is the home of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, which is a must-see feature of this first stop, and remains an incredible place to get out for a ride.

While single track access on Mt. Tamalpais is limited, the famous Camp Tamarancho boasts a completely legal, fun, and technical loop that is sure to kick off your road trip in style. A few extra laps of the recently added and well maintained Flow Trail will leave you eager for more time on the bike. Tamarancho is, however, on private property and you should purchase a $5 permit online to use the trails and help support such an incredible resource for cyclists.

No ride in Fairfax is complete without a beer and a brat at the legendary Gestalt Haus. End your ride feeling at home in this bike-friendly hangout, where customers are encouraged to hang their bikes on the wall and put their feet up after enjoying Marin’s beautiful trails.

I grew up at the base of Mt. Tamalpais and am incredibly attached to this area as not only my personal home, but the home of my sport. I hope that when you visit Marin, you can feel the excitement and love for mountain biking in the air. For me, this mountain biking community continues to be a source of motivation, and Marin remains one of my favorite places to ride when I need a reminder of why I started riding my bike: For the love of riding—as well as for the beautiful views, great company, and post-ride tacos.

Stop 2: Downieville, California

Downieville is known in the cycling world for its infamous all-mountain race. This two-day race, which claims to be the all-mountain world championships, includes a long, cross-country adventure loop that begins with a 3,000-foot climb up the Sierra Buttes and then descends miles of extremely technical and fun single track. The second day of racing is a timed downhill run which, combined with the cross country results, determines the overall winner. The catch? Both races must be completed on the same bike—meaning your trail bike setup must be light enough to survive the climb without compromising speed downhill.

I HAVE SUCH DISTINCT MEMORIES OF EATING ICE CREAM AND WATCHING THE BIKE JUMP COMPETITION FROM THE SIDE OF THE RIVER BANK AFTER A BRUTAL DAY ON THE BIKE.

Although race courses aren’t ideal for a Sunday ride, rest assured this loop is epic and more than worthy of your second stop on the trip. For those who are less interested in the grueling climb, there are shuttles available to take you to the top. If you are looking for a truly epic day on the mountain, however, it is always recommended you earn your turns by pedaling up.

I raced the Downieville Classic every summer as a Junior racer. It is an incredibly challenging event—both physically and mentally. It also brings a fun and competitive atmosphere where like-minded people are united around a common love for the bicycle. I have such distinct memories of eating ice cream and watching the bike jump competition from the side of the river bank after a brutal day on the bike. It is in remembering moments like these that I feel so lucky to have such a strong mountain bike community in my backyard.

Stop 3: Lake Tahoe, CA

In addition to being a winter wonderland during ski season, the beautiful Lake Tahoe certainly does not disappoint in the summertime. The vistas are unbelievable and there are several long and well-known single track loops. The Tahoe Rim Trail is toward the top of the bucket list, with stunning views of the lake from the ridge line above. The 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail completely circles the lake—however, only certain segments are open to mountain bikes.

The Flume Trail provides another scenic option high above the lake. Most riders leave from Spooner Lake and ascend up to Marlette Saddle. In all, the trail is moderately technical and provides great options to extend your ride if you’d like to make it a truly epic day on the mountain bike. Another classic and well-known Lake Tahoe loop is Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, a more technical and challenging trail that includes sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail. This trail is recommended for more advanced riders as it can be a bit of a wild ride.

I grew up ski-racing in Tahoe, but more recently have found myself spending more and more time there in the summer. It is the ideal place for a high altitude training camp during the season. The trails are perfect for training—and the area offers plenty of lake activities, swimming holes, hikes, and stand-up paddleboarding to ensure that, even with the hard work, “training camp” feels more like vacation.

Stop 4: Bend, Oregon

The beautiful city of Bend, Oregon is known for anything and everything outdoors-related—and its rad mountain biking is no exception. The trail networks are well-marked and easy to access just a short spin from town, but offer miles of well-built single-track with fun and challenging features. In general, the trails are flowy, smooth, and rolling. With rolling terrain, it never feels as though you are climbing or descending too quickly, and it often leaves you wanting to spend all day out on the trails. You’ll be surprised by how many miles and feet of elevation you can rack up.

A few favorite trails among locals include Tiddlywinks and Funner, both of which offer slightly more challenging terrain and options for larger jumps and berms. Both of these trails, however, are definitely possible on XC mountain bikes. Another classic trail worth riding is Phil’s Trail, which has slightly smoother terrain and offers something for every skill level. After an awesome ride, the town of Bend is a great place to spend the day, grab a beer (there are over 29 microbreweries in town), and enjoy time with friends on and off the trails.

My last trip to Bend, Oregon left me eager to return and get back out on their expansive trail network. I described it almost as an outdoor mountain bike treadmill, meaning that you can go for hours and hours and feel like you are just riding along on undulating terrain. It’s a dream come true for an XC racer. While I only had two days in Bend, I managed to sneak out for a few longer rides and even made my flight after cutting it ridiculously close.

Stop 5: Sun Valley, Idaho

Like Lake Tahoe, Sun Valley is both a winter and summer wonderland for outdoor adventures. Sun Valley trails offer something for everyone, ranging from fire roads to XC-style riding to very technical downhill trails. This stop is one of the only locations on this trip that has lift-accessed trails to maximize single-track descending, which allow for a more relaxed ride. Take the chairlift up to the top of Bald Mountain to quickly reach stunning views and secure a long descent back into town.

There is also an option to climb up for those interested in a great workout and a long, more than 3,000-foot ascent to the peak. From the top, you have several options for descents that vary in terms of technical terrain. Saddle Up and Warm Springs River Run Trail are both favorites to consider including. No matter which route you take down, it will certainly be another iconic day of single track to remember. And this time without quite so much pedaling.

Sun Valley was the first place that I ever actually went downhill mountain biking. It was on a family vacation long before I started racing bikes competitively. We rented bikes, took the chairlift up, and rode amazing single-track with great views all the way home. I may have worn tennis shoes and an incredibly awkward helmet with a visor, but I fell in love with the trails and the outdoor-focused community in Sun Valley. Years later, I returned to the very same mountain for the USA Cycling National MTB Championships which was held in Sun Valley two years in a row.

Stop 6: Moab, Utah

The final stop on my ultimate mountain bike road trip of a lifetime is Moab. It is one of the biggest riding destinations in the country, and it certainly lives up to the hype. With technical single track and unique, tacky trails built into red rock, it is high on any mountain biker’s bucket list.

While in town, check out the famous Slick Rock trail. With incredibly tacky red rock slabs, you will be shocked by what you can ride down—and up—on this unique and mystifying surface. If you are looking for a truly epic experience, book a shuttle and take on the Whole Enchilada Trail. Start your morning at the Love Muffin Cafe for a hardy pre-ride breakfast and then load into a shuttle for a long ride to the top of Geyser Pass in the LaSal Mountains. This all-day adventure offers 34 miles of trail that drops almost 8,000 feet of elevation. Starting up above the tree line, you will descend through a range of scenery and trail conditions. From riding down slabs of red rock to tacky dirt winding through the aspens, this ride has it all. While your arms may be a bit tired by the bottom, you certainly won’t want the fun to end.

On my last trip to Moab, I was lucky enough to get to ride the Whole Enchilada for the first time. We started the day at Love Muffin Cafe where my boyfriend and I ran into one of his close childhood friends. As it turns out, he was booked on our exact same morning shuttle and ended up riding the entire trail with us. This is what I love about Moab; it is a mountain biking mecca, filled with people who absolutely love to ride their bikes and are always up for an adventure.

Meet the Author

Kate Courtney

Kate Courtney is the 2018 mountain bike world champion. Kate grew up in Marin County, California, at the base of Mount Tamalpais—the birthplace of mountain biking. Kate was introduced to cycling at a young age, riding on the back of a tandem mountain bike with her dad to get pancakes on Sunday mornings. In 2012, she became the first American woman to win a Union Cycliste Internationale Mountain Bike World Cup in the junior category. In 2013, Kate begin attending Stanford University and signed her first professional contract with Specialized Bicycles.

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How to plan your bike route

• Join the movement

In today’s car-centric world, we’re conditioned to believe we belong on highways and major roadways. But there’s more than one way to get from A to B, and going by bike can give you access to far more efficient and beautiful routes. Whether on the tarmac or the trail, rides are more fun when we know where we’re going. Taking the time to plan your ride reduces stress and confusion so you can focus on the important things like traffic, pedestrians, obstacles, wildlife, and having a good time.

There’s an app for that Wherever you roam, there’s an app to help you find the perfect route and directions to get you where you’re going. Here, we’ll guide you through some of the top route-planning apps, explain their best features, and show you how to use them to plan your route.

Strava is a fitness-tracking app that allows you to find local rides, track your progress, and compare your metrics on segments of your ride to other cyclists in your area. It's a great platform for discovering fun, popular bike rides on any surface, and it’s ideal for keeping track of training and fitness. With Strava, it’s free to find and log your rides, but you can upgrade to Strava Plus for extra training features, segment creating abilities, and more.

Plot your course on an online map with bikemap, then upload the file to your compatible bike computer for turn-by-turn directions—or, discover a ride that's new to you by choosing an existing route from the millions of options in this app's collection. Most of bikemap’s features are free to use, but if you’d like added functions you can upgrade to premium for $34.99/year.

RIDE SPOT is a free app from PeopleForBikes that gives you route options right on your phone. Follow simple, on-screen navigation or audible turn-by-turn directions and tell your ride story when you’re done by uploading photos! RIDE SPOT will also let you know about upcoming rides and events that may interest you.

Ride with GPS

Like Strava, Ride with GPS allows you to record and navigate your ride and share it with friends. On this app, it’s super easy to find pre-mapped rides in your area and also create your own. It works offline as long as you download the route beforehand, otherwise it needs GPS to keep you on track. The free starter version packs in a ton of routes and rides, but if you’re looking for more features there are two paid options. The Basic option ($6USD/month) enables tools for navigating, downloading, and sharing rides. For $10USD/monthly you can upgrade to Premium with advanced route editing, heatmaps for route planning, and more.

MapMyRide is a ride-tracking app that’s built to log any kind of workout from your phone. You can find routes, analyze data to train smarter, find local support through other riders and runners, and upload data from your ride with photos and comments. MapMyRide also offers frequent challenges for setting new goals and pushing yourself further. With the free version of the app, you can create routes on the website. Upgrade to Premium for $6USD/monthly for features like Route Genius, which finds circular routes for you based on the distance you would like to ride.

Only planning on pavement? These apps are perfect for dialing in greenway joyrides, city commutes, and road rides alike.

Google Maps

Google Maps has a built-in bike map feature that'll give you your best bike route along low-traffic roads and bike paths—and it'll even give you a ride time estimate. Drop in your destination and swipe over to the bike icon, then use it just like you'd use Google Maps in a car. Google Maps is completely free to use and doesn’t require any memberships.

Available in some cities, AppleMaps will guide you on bike paths, lanes, and bike-friendly roads (where available). The app plays directions through your phone’s audio and allows you to check how busy traffic is on your route or see the elevation of your route and plan a ride to avoid steep hills. AppleMaps is free of any fees or memberships.

Scout your off-road routes Navigate the trails less taken with apps for mapping your mountain bike and gravel rides.

Map out routes, check conditions, and explore trails wherever you roam with the TrailForks app. TrailForks is a management tool and trail map for trail users and trail builders alike, providing great information for all who explore the outdoors. The app is free if you only need to download and explore a single region, or you can upgrade to TrailForks Pro for $2.99/month to explore and load maps for regions all over the world.

MTB Project

MTB Project is a crowd-sourced mountain bike guide that allows riders to search for trails, rate rides, share photos, and offer updated trail conditions. Download the state where you’ll be riding before you head out and you’ll have maps all day with trail difficulty ratings, elevation, and distance—even if you’re out of service. MTB project does not require any fees or paid memberships to use.

GravelMap.com

Feel like taking on the road less traveled? GravelMap.com is a website for planning and finding gravel and dirt road rides all around the world. It offers a simple way to discover gravel roads and allows you to post photos of your rides and manage your favorite routes for others to discover. All routes are user-created and free to access, so be sure to check signage on roads before you embark on your adventure and share as many details as you can to help others find the best rides.

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Bikemap: Bike Trails & Tracker 4+

Bicycle navigation, maps & gps, bikemap gmbh, designed for ipad.

• #171 in Navigation
• 4.7 • 8.4K Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

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Description.

Your cycling app with tracking, navigation and route planner. Optimized for safe cycling in the city and in the countryside. Find the best bike routes near you. Plan, navigate and track your rides quickly and easily. Our active cycling community gives you access to millions of routes and cycle paths worldwide. BIKE TRACKER & BIKE COMPUTER Turn your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch into a bike computer. Including HealthKit integration. ROUTE PLANNER Find the perfect routes in your area, tailored to your bike type. LOOP PLANNER Improve your cycling experience with customized routes - without time-consuming manual planning. BIKEMAP.NET If you want to plan in even more detail, you can also do so on bikemap.net and then synchronize your route with the app to start tracking and navigating immediately. MILLIONS OF BIKE ROUTES The most popular routes, MTB trails and cycle paths in your area and worldwide. Including official routes such as Pacific Coast Route, TransAmerica Trail, Mississippi River Trail, and many more. POIs Find important places during your tours, such as toilets, restaurants, water points or e-bike charging stations. Avoid roadworks, potholes and slippery roads with live reports from the community. -- NOW EVEN MORE FUNCTIONS WITH BIKEMAP PREMIUM -- TURN-BY-TURN NAVIGATION Never miss a turn again and get voice navigation instructions for all routes. SELF-GUIDED NAVIGATION Follow your route based on your location. Perfect for off-road sections. OFFLINE MAPS & ROUTES Download maps and routes for offline use. BIKE TYPE OPTIMIZED ROUTING Optimize navigation for your road bike, mountain bike or city bike. Navigate preferably on cycle paths. SPECIAL BIKE MAPS Choose from 3D, Night, OpenCycleMap, OpenStreetMap, Satellite, Atlas, Outdoors and Landscape. INDIVIDUAL BIKE COMPUTER Activate the statistics you want to keep an eye on at all times. DETAILED ROUTE PREVIEW See your route in 3D at home - including elevation profile. CRASH DETECTION Safer cycling with automatic fall detection. The payment will be charged through your Apple account. Your free trial will be automatically renewed to a paid subscription if you don't cancel it at least 24 hours before the end of the current period (the same is valid for an ongoing subscription). You can cancel your Bikemap Premium subscription anytime during the current subscription period by turning off auto-renewal in your Apple account settings. Terms of use: https://www.bikemap.net/terms-of-service Got any questions? Let us know via [email protected] anytime.

Version 29.10.0

What's new in this version: - Self-guided navigation: Follow your route using your live location on the map. Perfect for routes that include off-road sections or undefined paths. - Various bug fixes We have planned a bunch of new and exciting things for this year, so make sure to keep your app updated. If there are any questions or you have feedback for us, please reach out via [email protected] anytime. Thank you for supporting Bikemap!

Ratings and Reviews

8.4K Ratings

Great App - Still some bugs 🐜

The app is still showing my rides under “My Activity” 3 days ahead. (Sunday shows Wednesday; Monday shows Thursday and Tuesday shows Friday) The map sometimes freezes up where it does not keep up with my location and does not record my speed. Rebooting the app seems to clear it. Also still waiting for a pause recording during rides when I stop and do not want to include it in overall ride time. Thanks!

Developer Response ,

Hi Sgt. Z Squad, thank you for your valuable feedback. We are very sorry that your experienced these issue while using Bikemap. Please send the details of these problems to [email protected]. Any relevant screenshots would help too. We'll pass it along to our development team and see if there is any way we can improve it. Also we took note of your request for a pause function and will forward it to our product team. Best regards from Vienna & happy cycling! 💙

This app gives up too easily

If the starting and ending points of your planned route are close to each other, it won’t navigate: as soon as you start navigating, it says “you’ve arrived,” and stops navigation. If you deviate from your planned route (e.g. because of a detour) and then rejoin, at the next waypoint it says “you’ve arrived,” and stops navigation. If you turn off your screen to save battery, when you turn it back on it sometimes won’t update the display to your current position. One thing that would be helpful is if the Lock Screen could display a minimap of the current location. I came to a point where it told me to take a right turn, but there were two trails leading off to the right. I had to stop, take off my sunglasses, unlock the phone, find my current position on the map, and see which trail I was supposed to take. A minimap showing the current intersection and which route to take would be really helpful in that situation. Update: went on another ride. The app randomly loses all sense of location and direction, so it places me somewhere I am not, and tells me to “continue onto” the trail I am already on. The only way to deal with that is to stop navigation and restart. I have 6 saved “routes” for a 19 mile ride. This was easily the worst $50 I’ve spent on the App Store.

Hi, we are sorry that you experienced difficulties using Bikemap and would like to know the details of the problem you mentioned. Please send them to [email protected]. Any relevant screenshots would help too. We'll pass it on to our developers who will check if they can fix the issue. Thank you & happy cycling! 💙🚲

Not there yet.

Well, I got the premier version paid for that and tried this out. It is just not ready yet in my opinion. The one thing that is needed is being able to connect to Garmin radar units. Like a lot of the other apps do and this doesn’t so I’ll quit using it even though I paid for it until maybe sometime they have it. there’s things I like about it and it’ll work for most people but the way I see it if you look through the reviews and the reaction of the developer is to say they’re sorry to hear that and could they give them information on where it happened and what it happened all that kind of stuff which to me is nothing more than a beta test so it’s just not ready yet. Also, it’s difficult to get it to point the map in the direction you’re going and you have to move there a little computer window out of the way to change it and it’s hard to do while you’re riding. Sometimes it just doesn’t work at all as far as moving on the map the way you wanted to move. They have recently fixed a bunch of bugs which was helpful but I’ll put it away for may be a few more months maybe next spring see how it works.

App Privacy

The developer, Bikemap GmbH , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• User Content
• Search History
• Identifiers

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The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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• Bikemap Premium Monthly $6.99
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Where to Begin

We have over 300 original and curated bikepacking routes in our global network spanning nearly 50 countries.

Start at our worldwide routes map to dig into our detailed guides with GPS maps and inspiring photography.

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Local Overnighters

The Local Overnighters Project is a unified effort to document and map one-night bikepacking routes all over the world—by locals, in their own backyards.

The Bikepacking Journal is our biannual printed publication. Each issue features a collection of inspiring writing and beautiful photography. Find details on the three most recent issues below, join the Bikepacking Collective to get it in the mail (anywhere in the world), or click here to find a collection of selected stories in digital format.

The special edition 10th issue of The Bikepacking Journal is one you won’t want to miss! It features 25% more pages with extra stories, bonus art and maps, and much more...

Issue 09 takes readers on trips through time—one to the early days of bicycles—and offers several reminders to be grateful for supportive friends and family, and strangers we meet along the way...

For Issue 08, we invited several contributors to return and pick up where earlier trips and ideas left off and also feature a handful of first-timers whose perspectives we’ve long been eager to share...

• What is Bikepacking
• Seven Bikepacking Setups
• Bikepacking Bags & Packing
• What to Pack
• Planning a Route
• Advanced Gear Planning
• Bikepacking 201

Bikepacking routes can be as varied as the wide array of bikes and bags that you can take on them. They can be long or short—such as a sub-24-hour overnighter or a multi-week expedition—based on gravel, dirt roads, or singletrack, and roll through small towns, into rural farmland, or deep into the backcountry. Routes might begin close to home and be logistically straightforward to organize, utilizing both favorite rides and unknown trails, or they may require extensive planning and travel. You can head out to ride established bikepacking routes or make up your own. As important as it is to have a reliable bike and an efficient, well-thought-out gear list, choosing the right route is the key to your enjoyment, whether it involves forging your own path or following an existing one.

The site is packed with an ever-growing resource of bikepacking routes to suit all abilities. While it may seem as simple as downloading a GPX file and hitting the trail, there are many factors to consider when deciding on an existing route. If you’re planning on doing a variation of a pre-established route or creating one of your own, there are a number of additional details to look after. Additionally, there are nuances and complexities to navigating any route once you decide where to go. But before we dig into the tools, techniques, and things to consider, it’s important to understand what makes some routes more difficult than others.

Route Difficulty

By nature, pedaling a bike loaded with gear is slower and more strenuous than riding an unladen bike. This is important to keep in mind when planning any bikepacking trip, particularly your first. Beginner bikepackers should expect to go one-half to two-thirds the speed and distance they might go on a typical unloaded ride.

Every route published on BIKEPACKING.com is assigned an overall difficulty rating between 1 and 10 to help readers discern how challenging of an experience they can expect when setting out to ride it. Route difficulty ratings are based on the opinion and experience of individual route creators and may vary from route to route. To help further define this number and create clearer expectations, we provide a few sentences in each route guide to describe this rating, notes within the Must Know tab, and three additional metrics.

Most of these metrics, save the Climbing Scale, are subjective and can change based on weather, time of year, individual fitness and abilities, and other such environmental factors. For example, some routes may be much more challenging at certain times—such as clay roads that turn into “death mud” that can stop you in your tracks when wet. Do your own due diligence and research before setting out on any of the routes listed on this website.

Technical Difficulty

This metric is used to define the technical nature of the surfaces found on the route. For example, a route with a technical rating of 1 to 3 might be mostly smooth, graded gravel with the occasional obstacle or loose section. A route rated 4 to 7 on this scale may have more varied surfaces with uneven dirt roads, off-camber areas, relatively non-technical singletrack, or a few challenging obstacles. On a route with a technical rating of 8 to 10, you might expect steep riding, exposure, hike-a-bike, and rocky and rooty technical singletrack with obstacles.

Physical Demand

This metric defines the strenuousness of the route. Routes with relatively flat and easy terrain will have a rating from 1 to 3, whereas hillier or mountainous routes with occasional long climbs might come with a 4 to 7 physical demand rating. Rides with regular steep grades, relentless climbing, and those at high elevations might receive an 8 to 10 in this category.

Resupply and Logistics

The physical and technical difficulty ratings of a route are important considerations. However, these numbers leave out several critical factors. For example, some routes might be relatively flat and smooth but still remote, long, or devoid of resupply options. The resupply and logistics metric factors in the ease of food and water availability, transport to and from the beginning or end, and other factors that affect the logistical difficulties of the route, among other logistical considerations. Perhaps the most basic element of this metric is what type of route it is. Whether they’re short or long, bikepacking routes fall into one of two categories:

1. Loops: A loop starts and finishes at the same place. Starting points often include places like parks, historical landmarks, public transportation hubs, or parking areas. For time and tactical reasons, bikepackers often prefer loops, especially for shorter trips, so the logistics of post-ride transportation don’t take time away from riding. Note that most of the overnighters in our Local Overnighter archive are loops. Overnighters are meant to be simple, quick getaways where the loop format makes the most sense.

2. Linear routes: A linear route, or through-route, is a one-way ride that starts and finishes in two separate locations. This requires an additional logistical component that involves transportation from the route’s terminus back to the starting point or to a different location altogether. Connecting through-routes is great when on a longer trip, but if time is a constraint, the added logistical challenge can be cumbersome. Transport may include hitchhiking, arranging a shuttle, or taking public transportation (train, bus, taxi, etc.). We’ve also used rental cars and U-Haul trucks.

Climbing Scale

Another important metric to analyze is where your intended route falls on the Climbing Scale. This is the only metric in this list that is completely objective, with each route programmatically assigned a value from 1 to 10 based on average feet per mile (meter per kilometer). Bear in mind this is an average over a whole route. Some routes may have steeper climbs than others that this number may not reflect. It also doesn’t differentiate terrain—a dirt road climb may be tougher than a paved one—or elevation—climbing at lower elevations is easier than doing so at higher elevations. Here’s how it breaks down with some route examples to compare (numbers in parentheses represent feet per mile and meters per kilometer):

Pace and Distance

Now that you have a general understanding of what makes some bikepacking routes more challenging than others, how far should you expect to pedal each day? Broadly speaking, the average bikepacking trip usually involves riding between 25 to 75 miles (40 to 120 kilometers) per day, depending on your personal fitness, the weight of your loaded bike, weather conditions, the average grade of the route, and the amount of time you spend in the saddle. As hinted at in the previous section, the other major element that has a bearing on the daily distance you might cover is the difficulty of the route’s surface and terrain. All of these factors should be scrutinized when planning how far you can go and how much time you’ll need to take on a given route.

To illustrate, here are four simulated route types, each with four pace metrics:

• Moving time: the hours riders might spend pedaling (not including snack time);
• Average speed: a loose estimate of averages based on the terrain;
• Distance per day: a rough estimate of mileage;
• Elevation per day: the amount of total ascent a rider might expect in a single day.

Note that these four metrics don’t necessarily interrelate, as a cyclist’s pace may be governed by one or the other. Use these to get a loose idea of what to expect. You can also substitute rider skill level for pace: Slow might represent a novice weekend cyclist; Relaxed could be a weekend bikepacker; Efficient might represent a more experienced individual; Fast might be the pace of someone who’s very fit and on a schedule; and Ultra could represent the pace of a well-trained ultra-endurance athlete.

The first example includes routes with a difficulty level of 1 to 4 out of 10 that are approachable on a rigid mountain bike or gravel bike. This type of route might be unpaved 50 to 60 percent of the time and feature an even mix of fast-rolling tarmac with unpaved sections being relatively smooth gravel. Such a route may present moderate climbs with a Climbing Scale rating of 2 or 3. Example routes might include overnighters like the Finger Lakes Overnighter in New York, the New Forest Gravel Taster in the United Kingdom, or the Havel Wetland Wanderer in Germany.

Mixed Surface

The second example might be a route with a difficulty level of 4 to 6 out of 10 that is approachable on a rigid mountain bike, hardtail or Divide-style bike. This type of route might be 60 to 70 percent unpaved with a mix of gravel, chunkier dirt roads, and some mellow singletrack. Such a route may present moderate and challenging climbs with a Climbing Scale rating of 3-5. Think of routes like the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route , The Monumental Loop in New Mexico, or the Ardennes Arbelate in Belgium.

Rough Stuff

This example route could have a difficulty level of 6 to 8 and feature around 70 to 80 percent unpaved surfaces with significant stretches of rutted, rocky, and chunky dirt roads. Routes like this may present the need to hike your bike on occasion. Consider challenging ascents with a Climbing Scale rating of 4 to 7. Routes like the Grand Staircase Loop in Utah, the San Jose del Pacifico in Mexico, and the Baja Divide in Mexico might fall into this category.

Singletrack-Heavy

A singletrack-heavy backcountry route might prove a bit more challenging with a difficulty level of around 8 or 9, 80 to 100 percent unpaved surfaces, and prolonged stretches of singletrack trails that could be technical at times and require the occasional hike-a-bike. With this style of route, you could expect challenging climbs with a Climbing Scale rating of 6 to 8. Route examples include the Coconino Loop or AZT in Arizona, the Highland Trail 550 in Scotland, and the Colorado Trail .

Plan Your Route

With the groundwork in place, it’s time to choose a bikepacking route or plan your own. If you take the latter path, know that there’s a lot to learn. We highly recommend familiarizing yourself with several digital mapping platforms and baselayers to gain a better understanding of the land where you intend to ride to get the most from your bikepacking adventures. It may seem overwhelming at first, but it will all start to make sense with a little practice.

Tools and Apps

What a time to be alive and to be into off-pavement cycling! With the proliferation of detailed map layers and GPS technology built right into our phones, there are many great applications out there that enable users to find new trails and tracks, plan routes in detail, see what other folks have ridden, and understand surfaces and land types. Here are three of our favorites:

• Ride with GPS: As evidenced on the site, Ride with GPS (RWGPS) is one of our preferred tools. It offers a complete, turnkey platform to plan and follow routes. The Route Planner, which is available on the web or as a mobile app, offers a rich feature set, particularly for creating routes. As a result, it has a relatively steep learning curve, but it’s well worth the effort. In addition, the navigational app allows you to download map layers offline and navigate as you go. RWGPS offers a library of informative videos and articles to help get started. Find those here .
• Gaia: Gaia GPS (now owned by Outside) is another great application that offers a few features that we love, including the ability to download detailed baselayers for offline use, several unique maps—such as public and private land layers in the US—and the ability to quickly and easily add points of interest (POIs) as you go.
• Trailforks: When it comes to singletrack trails, Trailforks is home to the largest database of mountain bike trails in the world. Not only does it feature an impressive map search, but trails can also be browsed by state and trail network. All the content, including photos, videos, and reviews, is user contributed by an audience backed by Pinkbike (owned by Outside), which has led to massive growth over the last few years.

Layers Upon Layers

Google Earth and satellite imagery have opened a lot of doors to two-wheeled exploration. The ability to view detailed satellite imagery from the comforts of your home or out on the trail with your smartphone is a game changer when it comes to remote bikepacking. But that only scratches the surface. There are dozens of great map layers that offer endless information to help plan routes and add perspective to your trips. Here are the essentials:

• OSM Cycle: The OpenCycleMap global cycling map is based on data from the open-source OpenStreetMap project. It includes a wealth of cycling-related information, as well as a good basemap for dirt roads, gravel, and singletrack. It’s available in both RWGPS and Gaia and provides a valuable backdrop that we use as our primary basemap.
• Public/Private Land: Gaia GPS offers public and private land layers with their Premium subscription (our Bikepacking Collective members receive a 20 to 50 percent discount). These layers are particularly handy in the US when planning routes on questionable dirt roads that may go through privately owned land. The public land layer is also useful when looking for places to camp.
• Nat Geo Trails Illustrated: Nat Geo also offers the Trails Illustrated maps as a layer in Gaia GPS. This layer is useful if your route involves US national forest land or other recreational land that has an associated Trails Illustrated map.
• Heat Maps: Popularized by Strava, heat maps visualize ride data from an online community to display where people ride. Ride with GPS also offers heat maps , aggregating their user data into an invaluable layer for use when researching the best bike routes through cities and elsewhere.
• Native Land: The lands we travel through in North America were occupied long before the establishment of European colonies. Landscapes that we consider to be “untouched wilderness” were home to the Indigenous peoples of this continent since time immemorial and are still an integral part of their cultural identity. Native-Land.ca offers a map interface with a layer showing Indigenous land boundaries so we can recognize whose land we’re using.

Tips for Creating Your Route

There’s an art to creating a good bikepacking route. It’s about balancing challenges and rewards and finding the perfect rest stops and campsites along the way. What makes a route special? Scenic campsites, places to eat, breweries, bucket-list trails, fun descents, and cultural and historical places of interest, to name a few. Maybe there are hot springs or swimming holes in the middle too.

We recommend starting with an overnighter route. If it’s your first time bikepacking, keep it simple. You might even pick a short, familiar loop of around 10 to 20 miles (15 to 30 kilometers) near home for a quick overnight trip. Use trails or roads that are familiar to you as a trial run, and keep to a comfortable, established campsite. Here are a few tips for building a successful route:

• Base your route on a good campsite. When designing the route, lay it out around a great campsite where you want to spend the night, allowing adequate mileage the day leading up to camp and the day after. This is probably the most important step in creating a route, and most overnighter routes are built with a campsite in mind.
• Remember the factors that affect pace outlined earlier? Keep those in mind when designing your route to make sure you have enough time to get to camp.
• Stay off the busy roads and keep your route safe. Most of our routes are made up of at least 60% unpaved surfaces, but we prefer routes in which the majority of the time spent riding is off pavement. This allows us to stay safe and admire the surroundings.
• Use points of interest (POIs). Basing routes around particular sights or stops is a fun approach. Breweries, historical landmarks, hot springs, swimming holes, and scenic viewpoints can all add interest to a route.
• Create a rhythm. Starting and finishing a route with a climb isn’t an ideal approach. Space out the suffering and the rewards, and make sure the ratio of the two trends toward fun to keep it enjoyable.
• Use greenways. Tie in a greenway or cycle-specific path to the route. Anything that helps avoid traffic is welcome in our book.
• Watch resupply points. It’s good practice to plan where resupply points are and determine the distance between them; the same goes for potable or filterable water.
• Consider where it starts and ends. Making a loop from a memorable and safe starting point is always a good idea. Consider starting it at a landmark, bike shop, place of historical significance, and/or area with a good place to leave a vehicle. If your route is linear in nature, think about ways of making it accessible via public transportation or have good spots to park cars for a shuttle.

Dig into some more resources on this subject:

The Complete Route Planning Guide goes over even more tools, apps, and techniques for route planning

Planning The Perfect Route offers a few philosophical thoughts on route planning

In Other People’s Lines , Logan delves into what it means to ride routes designed by other people

Interested in planning a group trip? Check out this article with some tips for a Solstice ride , Neil’s video about group trip planning, and Cass’ tips

Following a Route

For most bikepacking adventures, GPS navigation is a requisite part of the trip. While traditional paper maps are great for planning and provide crucial backups on the trail, a bar-mounted GPS head unit or GPS-enabled smartphone with a trusted app is an essential tool. Becoming comfortable with them will broaden your horizons immeasurably and will also help to maintain the flow of your ride, especially on singletrack, since you won’t have to stop to pull out and consult a map at every intersection.

GPS or Smartphone

A dedicated GPS unit is built to handle rough terrain and mixed weather conditions and works especially well when following singletrack. The reliable Garmin eTrex (20/22x/30/32x) series offers several well-priced models that are perfect for the job. There are also a few good options from Wahoo, like the ELEMNT BOLT . However, smartphones make an excellent alternative, especially when housed in a protective case. Although they suffer from a shorter battery life and have to be handled more carefully, they’re far easier and more intuitive to use. As mentioned, Ride with GPS and Gaia are among the best apps on offer. Each requires a fee to get the full-featured version, but it’s well worth it, and each includes a selection of basemaps for around the world. Maps can be downloaded onto the device, allowing the phone to be used as a GPS where there’s no cell coverage.

The reality is that it’s best to bring both. Unfortunately, it’s not unheard of for a GPS unit to malfunction in the field. It doesn’t happen often, but we’ve heard about it happening too many times. We highly recommend bringing a backup of your route GPX: one installed on your head unit GPS and one on your phone in an app such as RWGPS or Gaia.

Here are a few related articles and resources:

Find our in-depth bike GPS reviews and news coverage in this archive

Using a Smartphone As a GPS is an older article that outlines how to use a phone in place of a handlebar-mounted GPS

Find more information about using a satellite messenger in the reviews of the inReach and inReach Messenger

A Guide to Using our Routes walks through the basics on how to get the route on your device

Keeping Gizmos Charged

If you’re following a route where there are no facilities to recharge your devices, make sure to plan ahead. For short trips, a cache battery bank will do. For extended trips, consider bringing a solar panel or a dynamo hub if there’s no access to power outlets for long periods. Most USB-powered devices, such as a Wahoo BOLT or smartphone, can be quickly and conveniently charged via the wall socket in a gas station and a solar panel when conditions are right. Dynamo hubs, used in conjunction with a device like Sinewave’s Revolution, are also handy. Use them to charge a buffer battery to top up your phone at the end of the day.

Take a peek inside SON , makers of the Son Delux Dynamo hub

The Sinewave Beacon offers a light and charging port that runs from a dynamo hub

The Anker Powergrid Solar is a portable solar array; check out the review

Although they’re a little cumbersome to carry, paper maps are perfect for planning a ride and can also provide a useful backup to their electronic equivalents while out on the trail. DeLorme’s (now Garmin’s) state-by-state Atlas and Gazetteer series is an excellent resource for discovering lesser-traveled paved and unpaved roads in your area. National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps are recommended for national forests and surroundings, as are US Forest Service maps . Most are made of waterproof vinyl material. Overseas companies to look for include ITM, Reise Know-How, and Gizi. Try cross-referencing a few, selecting a few grids, and comparing the level of detail in each to get the best map for your needs.

Revised and expanded in 2023, the Bikepacking 101 Handbook (2 nd ed.) required thousands of hours of research, design, and writing, all of which was made possible through the generous support of our Bikepacking Collective members. As with all of our detailed route guides, in-depth reviews, and daily news, stories, and event coverage, this 20,000-word resource is available to the public for free. If you appreciate what we do here at BIKEPACKING.com, consider joining to support our efforts .

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• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Plan a Mountain Biking Trip

Last Updated: January 11, 2020 References

This article was co-authored by Ikaika Cox . Ikaika Cox is the Shop Director at the Salt Lake City branch Bicycle Collective in Salt Lake City, Utah. He has been a bike mechanic since 2012, beginning as a volunteer with the Provo Bicycle Collective, and growing and honing his skills as a bicycle mechanic and educator in multiple Bicycle Collective locations over the years. He now leads the Salt Lake City branch of the Bicycle Collective. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 6,843 times.

Mountain biking is a popular outdoor activity, which can be done in most seasons. If you’d like to plan a mountain biking tip—either alone or with a group—you’ll need to consider the length of the trail and the amount of time it will take to complete, in addition to the weather and other seasonal concerns. Short trips can be completed in a couple of days, while longer trips can take a week, or even up to a month. Figure out well in advance who will be coming on the trip, and where you’ll be going.

Organizing and Training for Your Trip

• For example, if you’re planning to take a medium-length trip (5–11 days), you should start planning a year in advance. If you’ll be taking a mountain biking trip that lasts a full month, start planning at least 18 months in advance.

• There may also be a local mountain biking club that you could talk into joining your trip. If this is your first time planning a biking trip, consider tagging along on one of the local club’s trips before your orchestrate your own.

• More participants means that costs can be split among more people. Figure out early who will pay what amount for transportation, hotels (if applicable), and any other up-front expenses.

• Make sure that you train on the bike that you’re going to ride. Since you’ll likely be on the bike for dozens or hundreds of miles, make sure that you’re familiar with it and comfortable in the seat. Do not buy a fancy new bike right before the trip.

• Check the air in your tires by hooking up a pressure gauge. If the tire pressure is lower than recommended in the manufacturer’s handbook or printed on the side of the tire (usually no higher than 65 psi), inflate to the proper psi.
• Check the bike’s brakes by making sure that the brake pads contact the disk or rim, and confirm that the brake pads are not worn down past a safe level, which is 1 ⁄ 8  in (0.32 cm) thick for rim brake pads and 1 mm (0.039 in) thick for disc brakes. Check the bolts by going over your bike with a multi-tool and tightening all visible bolts, especially those on the handlebar, seat and seatpost, and pedals.
• Check the controls by confirming that gearshifts properly cycle through the gears. The chain should pass smoothly through the rear derailleur in all gears. If it hitches or skips, you may need to use a chain tool to loosen a stiff chain link.

Selecting a Location

• Long downhills, like in the Rocky Mountains in the American west and parts of Canada.
• Slick flat rocks and sandy trails in the desert, like in Utah and much of the American southwest.
• Durational alpine trails, like in western Canada, the Rockies, or the American northeast.

• Trailforks will also provide information regarding the nearest major city to the start of the trail, which allows you to plan a starting point for your biking trip.
• It’s important to thoroughly research the region and trails you’re considering, especially if they’re in a state or country outside of your own. Make sure to learn about the local first aid and search and rescue options as well.

• Conversely, if you’re planning a trip to a hot, arid region such as Moab (in Utah), biking in spring or fall will help you to avoid temperatures above 100°F (38°C).
• Keep in mind that elevation can have a dramatic effect on weather as well, especially in the northern Rocky Mountains (think Colorado through British Columbia). During the winter, sunny skies can quickly turn to rain or even snow.

Packing the Right Bike Supplies

• Even if you don’t end up needing both tubes for yourself, one of your fellow riders may not have come prepared. You can lend them your second spare tube, if needed.

• You’ll want to find a pump that’s lightweight and doesn’t take up much space, so it will fit easily in your backpack.
• Spare tubes, patches, and air pumps should all be available at your local bike-supply or outdoor-supply retailer.

• These items should also be available at your local bike shop or outdoor retailer. If you’re buying the majority of this gear for the first time, speak to a member of the stales staff who can recommend high-quality biking brands.

• The sales staff at your local bike shop or outdoor retailer will be able to provide further recommendations about bike equipment that you’ll need, depending on the location and duration of your trip.

Expert Q&A

• If you don’t know how to fix your bicycle, learn before you take off on the biking trip. To begin with, learn how to patch your tires and disassemble and reassemble your bike. [12] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you are not an experienced outdoorsman, then going with someone and using the buddy system during rides is a must. Getting lost on a trail can be dangerous. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If planning a mountain biking trip on your own sounds a little daunting, there are many companies set up to help you plan your trip. These companies are often regionally based. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.sacredrides.com/blog/how-to-plan-a-group-trip/2016/10
• ↑ https://www.tetongravity.com/story/adventure/5-ways-to-prepare-for-a-whistler-mountain-bike-trip
• ↑ http://www.cyclingweekly.com/news/pre-ride-bike-check-easy-as-abc-4812
• ↑ https://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-trails/how-to-plan-the-perfect-mtb-road-trip/
• ↑ https://www.trailforks.com/
• ↑ http://www.bikepacking.com/routes/great-divide-mountain-bike-route-gdmbr/
• ↑ http://www.bikeradar.com/mtb/gear/article/trail-tech-what-to-pack-for-long-mountain-bike-rides-37326/

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The Ultimate Bike Trip Packing List

This is everything you’ll need on the road for a long-distance cycling trip.

Whether venturing abroad or trying a new route at home, traveling on two wheels is a fun way to explore at your own pace.

A thorough packing list will ensure you're prepared for a multi-day bike trip. You’ll need to consider the local climate, duration of the trip, and potential bike contingencies to be ready for on your adventure. At the same time, you should travel light and narrow your list to just the essential apparel, gear, and accessories so you’re not pulling unnecessary weight.

Read on for more on what to pack for your next bike trip.

Packing Checklist

Apparel and shoes.

• Best Cycling Shorts for Men: Giordana Men’s FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts
• Best Cycling Shorts for Women: Pearl iZUMI Women’s Expedition Shorts
• Best Riding Jersey: Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt LS

Best Gloves: Giro La DND Mountain Cycling Gloves

• Best Socks: Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Socks

Best Cycling Shoes: Fi'zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoe

Best jacket: rapha trail lightweight jacket, essential gear, best helmet: bontrager velocis mips road bike helmet, best pedals: shimano eh500 spd dual sided bike pedal, best bike mirror: cateye bm-45 bar end mirror, best hydration: evoc hip pack pro 3l.

• Best Pannier Bag: Ortlieb Back-roller Classic Panniers
• Best Men’s-specific Bike Seat: Ergon SMC Core Bike Saddle
• Best Women’s-specific Bike Seat: Selle Italia Women’s Diva Gel Superflow MTB Road Bike Saddle
• Best Multitool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-tool

Best Pump: Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Hand Pump

Best phone mount: peak design universal bar mount, best tent: mountain hardwear nimbus ul 2 tent.

• Best Sleeping Bag: Rab Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag
• Best Cooking System: Jetboil Stash Stove

Accessories

Best sunglasses: julbo fury sunglasses.

• Best Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
• Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First Aid Kit
• Best Portable Charger: ChargeCard Ultra-thin Credit Card-sized Portable Charger & Battery Bank

When and where you’ll be cycling are key factors that should guide your packing list for a bike trip . “There isn’t much difference between a short trip and a long trip,” says adventure YouTuber Ryan Van Duzer. “The weather is what makes the difference on what clothing to pack, whether it be base layers for warmth or waterproof protection,” adds Van Duzer.

Besides the riding conditions, it’s also important to consider comfort, performance, and durability in your cycling apparel. “Look for clothing and apparel with merino wool to prevent odor, especially on longer trips and if you’ll be repeating outfits,” advises Van Duzer. Other items, like padded bike shorts and cycling shoes, should balance lasting comfort with performance to enhance your pedaling power, efficiency, and stamina. Choosing high-quality, durable apparel will help ensure you get plenty of miles out of your purchases.

Best Men’s Cycling Shorts: Giordana Men's FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Backcountry.com

If you’re planning on longer rides and multiple days in the saddle, padded bike shorts are essential to stay comfortable. The Giordana FR-C Pros excel when it comes to comfort and performance. The shorts’ Cirro OmniForm chamois is designed with multiple layers that form to the shape of the rider while providing ventilation and relief channels in sensitive areas. The chamois also incorporates aloe vera into the fabric to soothe skin and prevent odor. While the FR-C Pro’s tight fit takes some getting used to, the elastic leg bands and waist panel manage to achieve security without being overly compressive. After regularly wearing these for months, we love that the high-quality, anti-abrasion fabric offers soft supportive compression that make you want to ride all day.

Price at time of publish: $190

Best Women’s Cycling Shorts: Pearl iZUMi Women’s Expedition Shorts

Buy at Rei.com

Buy at Pearlizumi.com

The Pearl iZUMI women’s expedition shorts impressed us for their high-quality construction and long-lasting comfort. The brand’s Elite Transfer fabric provides a flexible, yet supportive fit and wicks away moisture. We love the padding’s barely-there feeling and ability to stay in place during long rides. The wide waistband design prevents chafing and an overly restrictive fit so you can mix up riding positions and pedal comfortably for hours. Pearl iZUMI incorporated three pockets in the expedition shorts — two cargo pockets and a center-back pocket — allowing easier access to snacks or an extra layer. With a competitive retail price, these shorts are a great value, too. For an even more aerodynamic fit, consider the bibbed version of these shorts .

Price at time of publish: $70

Best Riding Jersey: Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt

The Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt is designed with cyclists in mind. Made with an 87 percent merino wool and 13 percent nylon blend, the shirt is breathable and odor-resistant. “I like wearing natural fibers like merino wools — they don’t stink compared to polyester materials,” notes Van Duzer, who has ridden across the continental United States and other countries around the world. The Apex Merino Tech shirt features a relaxed fit and lengthier back in both the men’s and women’s versions for optimal coverage, especially when hunched forward in an aggressive riding position. It also boasts UPF 40 sun protection and a reflective label to enhance visibility on the road.

Price at time of publish: $71

Related: The 13 Best Bike Shorts for Women of 2023

The Giro LA DND Mountain Cycling Gloves offer tactile handling and durable protection for the hands. While they’re popular with mountain bikers, these rugged gloves are well-suited for road cycling too, not to mention boasting the benefit of avoiding knuckle tan lines. The DND gloves use a three-panel construction and an AX Suede palm that enhances the grip and prevents bunching. They’re made with breathable, four-way stretch fabric and reinforced fingertips that are touchscreen compatible. To lessen the impact of vibrations and bumps, the gloves include thin gel padding.

Price at time of publish: $22

Best Socks: Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Sock

Buy at Giro.com

The Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Sock achieves an ideal balance between comfort and durability. Made with 70 percent merino wool, the socks are breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant. The heel and toes are reinforced with nylon to extend the life of the socks. The Giro socks feature six-inch cuffs, shielding the lower legs from sun and anything the road throws at you. They’re available in four sizes (S-XL) and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Note that this is a mid-weight sock, which may be a bit excessive for road cycling in hotter climates.

Price at time of publish: $12

Buy at Mikesbikes.com

The Fi’zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoes deliver top-notch road cycling performance. The Infinito shoe is incredibly stiff and places the cleat towards the center of the foot, providing efficient power transfer to the pedals. Despite their stiffness, the shoe avoids pressure points and hotspots by creating a snug wraparound fit for comfort and support. This fit comes courtesy of the BOA Li2 closure system, which consists of two dials that carry out two-way adjustments to the finest degree. While you’re pedaling away, the shoe’s Microtex upper facilitates airflow to regulate moisture and temperature. Though the Infinito fetches a premium price, it delivers exceptional performance and durable, lightweight construction that’s a worthwhile investment for avid road cyclists.

Price at time of publish: $370

Related: The Best Electric Bikes for Every Type of Rider

Buy at Rapha.cc

The Rapha Lightweight Trail Jacket was made for cycling. The fit delivers freedom of movement and the entire jacket can be stuffed into the chest pocket and strapped to the bike frame for convenient transport. The ripstop nylon fabric construction is lightweight, breathable, and windproof. Cyclists can easily adjust the drawstring hood, which nearly fits over a helmet , while riding. Meanwhile, elastic cuffs provide a no-fuss method for keeping sleeves in place. The Trail Jacket is available in both men’s and women’s versions and in six different sizes.

Price at time of publish: $90

Whether you’ll be hauling your own gear on a bikepacking trip or cycling on a multi-day tour , there are some essential items you’ll need to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for the unexpected on the road. Besides upgrading your bike pedals and seat, you’ll want to think about integrating storage and safety features on your ride, too. It’s also important to be prepared for flat tires and roadside fixes.

Buy at Trekbikesflorida.com

The Bontrager Velocis MIPS Road Bike Helmet is designed to help cyclists reach top speeds while staying cool. The polycarbonate helmet opted for fewer, but larger vents (10 total) to balance ventilation and aerodynamics. The vents and internal channels keep air flowing through the helmet, while the pads wick away moisture for long-lasting comfort. The Velocis MIPS helmet comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large), and the BOA closure system makes it easy to adjust and dial in the right fit with a single hand. The helmet features a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) developed by doctors and scientists to reduce rotational motion to the head and brain during impact.

Price at time of publish: $225

Whether you choose to ride in cycling cleats or other active footwear, the Shimano EH500 PSD bike pedals have you covered. One side of the hybrid pedal is compatible with SPD clips, while the other is equipped with eight traction pins for reliable grip, rain or shine. SPD, which stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, is the brand’s clipless pedal that delivers a secure foot-to-pedal connection and easy multi-release system. While some pedals only release by kicking your heel out horizontally, the EH500 SPD pedal will unclip if you move your heel in multiple directions — a safety perk for newer cyclists .

If you’re on a multi-day cycling tour, having the option to swap out your cycling shoes for regular footwear is incredibly convenient when taking shorter sightseeing rides or running errands. And then when it’s time to complete another leg of your journey, you can switch back to riding clipped-in.

Price at time of publish: $85

Buy at Target.com

The CatEye BM-45 Bar End Mirror is small but effective at keeping an eye on traffic behind you to stay vigilant on the road. It’s made from aluminum and glass, adding durability and providing a virtually distortion-free view, respectively. The BM-45 mirror’s compact design means it hardly protrudes from the handlebars and won’t compromise a bike’s sleek aesthetics. Weighing just over an ounce, this ultralight mirror won’t slow you down.

Price at time of publish: $18

Related: The Best Sport Sunglasses to Take You to the Top of Your Game

Buy at Competitivecyclist.com

The Evoc Hip Pack Pro 3L is adeptly designed for keeping cyclists hydrated, fitting comfortably around the waists. The hip pack features two water bottle holders and space for a 1.5-liter hydration bladder, giving riders multiple choices for their hydration method. It’s secured via two broad elastic straps that attach via velcro and a quick-release buckle. The Airo Flex material used in the straps plus the wide design prevents chafing and tightness on the hips and stomach. Riders can tighten or loosen the straps with a single pull — allowing easy adjustments to prepare for inclines and descents.  Ventilated padding along the back helps maintain airflow and comfort during longer rides. Aside from the water storage, the pack is equipped with a zippered hip pocket and an organizer pocket for tools, but the capacity is limited.

Price at time of publish: $100

Best Pannier Bag: Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Pannier

The Ortlieb Back-roller Classic Panniers are well-suited for weekend trips and cross-country rides alike. The panniers offer 40 liters of storage space and are compatible with rack diameters of 8, 10, 12, or 16 millimeters. Between the waterproof polyester exterior and the roll-top closure system, your belongings and gear will stay protected from the elements. Where the back-roller panniers truly excel is their mounting hardware — Ortlieb’s QL2.1 system. Securing the panniers to your bike is as straightforward as grabbing the handles to open the lower latches and fastening the adjustable hooks to the rack, then letting go of the handle to lock it in place. To remove, simply lift the pannier by the handle, and the latches will automatically release.

Price at time of publish: $200

Related: The 12 Best Bike Lights of 2023

Best Men’s-specific Bike Seat: Ergon Men's SMC Core Bike Saddle

The Ergon SMC Core Saddle features a multi-layered system of padding to deliver an ideal balance of cushion, support, and responsiveness. The saddle uses Ergon’s Core 3D and TwinShell technology to form a multi-layered design, which encompasses a BASF Infinergy elastomer foam layer sandwiched between two nylon composite shells. This allows the SMC Core to move side to side to support pelvic movement while pedaling, reducing back strain and pressure on the sit bones. We were impressed by the seat’s stability on tough terrain and tactical trails. It’s also equipped with a pressure relief channel, which expands as it moves toward the back of the seat, helping to prevent numbness in sensitive areas on longer rides.

Price at time of publish: $150

Best Women’s-specific Bike Seat: Selle Italia Women's Diva Gel Superflow MTB Road Bike Saddle

The Selle Italia Diva Gel Superflow Saddle delivers lasting support and pressure relief in a race-ready design. The seat top is fitted with a lightweight gel layer that cushions the sit bones and dampens vibrations and bumps. Meanwhile, the nylon base of the seat provides a firm base for pedaling power and stability. The Superflow Saddle also features a substantial anatomical cutout in the center of the saddle to direct weight to the sit bones and alleviate pressure in sensitive soft tissue areas. The cutout, combined with the titanium rails and nylon base, keeps the weight to just around .6 pounds (depending on size).

Price at time of publish: $83

Related: The 10 Most Comfortable Bike Seats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Multitool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool

The Crankbrothers M19 Multi-tool has been on the market for over a decade and remains popular with cyclists for its functionality and ergonomic, durable design. As its name suggests, it contains 19 different tools, including a mix of hex keys, screwdrivers, spoke wrenches, and a chain tool. It’s equipped with side grips to maintain a firm hold while tackling roadside fixes. It comes with a sleek aluminum carry case that keeps it from snagging on other items but adds a bit of weight that some may deem unnecessary.

Price at time of publish: $31

Buy at Moosejaw.com

The compact Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Hand Pump helps save on space and weight without sacrificing performance. It’s rated for high pressure tire inflation, with 160 PSI maximum pressure. “Most mini pumps are undersized, whereas this has the functionality of a normal pump in a smaller package,” notes Van Duzer. The Lezyne pump is made with replaceable parts that are designed to last, including a stainless steel foot peg and CNC-machined aluminum barrel, piston, base, and T-handle. While the portable pump can be easily tucked in a pannier, riders also have the option of securing it to their bike with the included Composite Matrix frame mount. The Lezyne pump comes in two versions: one with a built-in pressure gauge and one without that cuts down the overall cost and weight.

Price at time of publish: $55

Related: The 11 Best Bikes for Every Type of Rider in 2023

The Peak Design Universal Bar Mount can accommodate a variety of mounting setups, including bikes, e-bikes, and scooters. It’s attached via a grippy silicone band to any handlebar between .75 to 2.2 inches. The Bar Mount uses a magnetic SlimLink attachment to secure the phone in place and a push-button release to remove it. This setup allows riders to grab and put their phone back without taking their eyes off the road ahead, plus the flexibility to have their phone in portrait or landscape alignment.

Price at time of publish: $50

The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent boasts an incredibly lightweight design that lends itself to bikepacking trips. It weighs just over 2 pounds when packed in its stuff sack, or you can divide the tent components and weight between two riders if bikepacking as a duo. The tent floor and sides are made from ripstop nylon for durability, while the mesh canopy enhances ventilation and cuts down on unnecessary weight. Mountain Hardwear did without dyeing the rain fly, helping save water and chemicals to reduce the overall environmental impact of the Nimbus UL 2. Campers can stake out the rain fly to create a 7.7-square-foot vestibule for safely storing cycling gear and provisions.

Price at time of publish: $420

Best Sleeping Bag: Rab 20F Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag

When packing for a bikepacking trip, weight is a leading factor in selecting gear. Weighing less than 1.5 pounds, the Rab Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag is a featherweight design that doesn’t skimp on performance and durability. The mummy-shape sleeping bag is insulated with a 900+ down fill to keep campers comfortable at below-freezing temperatures, and it's treated with a water-repellent coating to shed moisture. During our testing, it was cozy even during a cold, windy night with wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour. The Mythic Ultra 360’s 7D ripstop nylon construction is equipped with Thermo Ionic Lining Technology (TILT) that efficiently traps body heat to reduce the total down used, thus saving weight and packing volume.

Price at time of publish: $720

Related: The 12 Best Sleeping Bags of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Cooking System: Jetboil Stash Ultralight Camping and Backpacking Stove

This is a lightweight, all-in-one cooking system that stows easily in a pannier or handlebar bag. The Jetboil Stash Stove is the brand’s most lightweight and compact, weighing just over 7 ounces. All of the cooking systems components — isobutane fuel canister, titanium regulator, fuel-can stabilizer, and lighter — pack inside the .8-liter FluxRing cook pot. Meanwhile, the rubber-coated handle folds over the lid for packability and locks in place while cooking. With an average boil time of 2 minutes, 30 seconds, the Stash Stove makes morning coffee and meals a breeze. The wide-mouth cook pot design also makes it easy to eat from, meaning you can skip plates and bowls for less weight or other on-the-road essentials. The one downside is that it doesn’t have a push-button ignition, so you’ll need to pack matches or a lighter.

Price at time of publish: $111

Even the most minimalist packers will make room for accessories on their bike trip. Items like sunscreen and a first aid kit are essential for a smooth cycling adventure . Other accessories, like chargers and sunglasses, will come in handy for phone battery backup and keeping your focus on the road ahead.

The Julbo Fury Sunglasses are designed with a wide cylindrical lens that protects the eyes from sunlight as well as bugs and debris on the road. The lightweight, cycling-specific glasses are made with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses and a robust, yet flexible frame. They nearly cover your entire field of vision and stay securely in place while cycling at high speeds. Though the Fury sunglasses maintain a snug fit, they are equipped with shock-absorbing inserts at the temples and bridge of the nose for enduring comfort. Cyclists will appreciate that the vented structure allows plenty of airflow to prevent the lenses from fogging up. The Fury sunglasses are available with two different lenses. The Spectron 3CF lens is best suited for riding in bright light, while the Reactive photochromic lens adjusts based on the light conditions.

Price at time of publish: $140

Best Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick

Buy at Walmart.com

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Its main ingredients — zinc oxide and titanium Dioxide — shield skin from 97 percent of the sun’s rays without using any chemicals that can harm the environment. Blue Lizard’s formula also contains skin-nourishing ingredients, including aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower-seed oil, and vitamin E. The fragrance-free mineral sunscreen is water resistant for 80 minutes, and the stick design makes it easy to quickly reapply on pit stops or even without dismounting the bike.

Price at time of publish: $10

Related: The 9 Best Bike Phone Mounts of 2023

Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7

The Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First Aid Kit packs a wide assortment of bandages, medications, and supplies to treat the more common issues cyclists experience on long-distance rides. It has Moleskin and topical adhesive for treating and preventing blisters as well as wraps and tape for support or immobilization. There’s also a modest supply of over-the-counter medication to treat inflammation, pain, and insect bites, though we wish it also included medication for gastrointestinal problems. The first aid kit exterior is made with durable ripstop silnylon, while the interior features two watertight pouches to keep items clean and dry. Weighing just 8 ounces, this first aid kit will have minimal impact on your packed bike weight.

Price at time of publish: $32

Best Portable Charger: ChargeCard Ultra-Thin Credit Card Sized Portable Charger & Battery Bank

Buy at Theaquavault.com

Whether to navigate, record your ride, or dispatch a motivational playlist, our phones are essential travel companions. The ChargeCard ensures you have an emergency boost of power for your phone if the battery gets precariously low. The stainless steel battery resembles a sleek credit card and weighs just over 2 ounces. It’s compatible with Micro USB, Lighting, and USB Type-c connectors. It also features LED indicator lights to let you know how much charge is left. Although it saves precious space, its charging capacity is limited compared to other portable chargers.

Price at time of publish: $60

What to Know Before You Pack for a Bike Trip

Take only the essentials.

Packing light while bringing everything you need takes planning and practice. “I only pack two [cycling] shirts and one pair of bike shorts,” says Van Duzer. Since they’re made with quick-drying materials, washing shirts and bike shorts in your shower or bathroom sink is a quick and easy way to get back-to-back wears out of the same outfit, he adds. By keeping your cycling apparel to a minimum, you’ll ensure you have plenty of room for essential gear, accessories, and clothing and footwear for when you’re not riding on two wheels.

Choosing to borrow or rent items upon arrival can help cut down on your packing list. Van Duzer brings all his own gear (including his bike) and clothing, only buying food once he arrives at his next cycling destination. “Most airlines will take your bike as checked luggage and won’t charge extra as long as it fits their parameters,” says Van Duzer.

Prepare for all weather

Even in the most temperate environments, there’re bound to be variations in temperature and precipitation, especially if you're heading out first thing to ride into the afternoon. Unless traveling in the warmest climates, packing a jacket to protect against rain and wind is recommended. Choosing waterproof gear and storage is another good idea for covering your bases if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Choose versatility

Prioritizing versatility in your cycling gear, apparel, and accessories can prepare you for a variety of conditions and help keep your packing list on the lighter side. Selecting lightweight, packable layers that can be easily taken on and off and worn in variable temperatures is key, as they’ll be practical for multiple seasons and different cycling destinations. It may take some time to mix and match to find what combinations work best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take my bike with me on a trip or rent?

If traveling by car, transporting your own two wheels on a bike rack is an easy solution. If you’re riding for several days or more, the cost of flying with your bike may be cheaper than renting — not to mention the benefits of being certain that you’ll have a bike that fits and handles well.

Where do I keep all of my things on a bike trip?

Bikes have versatile storage options, including rear and front racks, baskets, and bags that attach to the frame, handlebars, or installed racks.

Can I use my bike trip equipment on rides at home?

Yes — using your bike trip equipment and gear at home can help prepare you for your trip as well as enhance your day-to-day cycling experience.

What materials should I look for when preparing for a bike trip?

For apparel, look for natural fibers like merino wool for optimal breathability and odor resistance. For bike gear, look for durable and waterproof materials like ripstop nylon.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard is a contributing writer at T+L, specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. He used his experience with outdoor adventure and cycling, as well as thorough research and tips from long-distance cycling veteran Ryan Van Duzer in compiling this list of what to pack for a bike trip. 

Related: The Ultimate Backpacking Packing List

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From saving on gas to driving with kids, here's your ultimate road trip planner

"Easy Travel” is a 10-part series focusing on how to reduce bumps during vacations, anticipate roadblocks and be ready when things aren’t going your way. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form .

Ina Daly has spent most of her life on the road.

“My dad was a truck driver and that led me to becoming a truck driver,” she said. “What we do in a day, on a daily job would be like a long road trip to most people.”

With nearly 40 years of driving for freight transportation services provider XPO and numerous industry accolades under her belt, including grand champion at this year’s Arizona Truck Driving Championship , Daly is a pro. She’s also a mom and a grandmother who’s happy to share her experiences to make everyone’s road trips better.

“Some of the things I'm telling you are what we truckers tell our family members,” she said. “I've had a lot of accomplishments in my career and going to the National Truck Driving Championships (this month) is a reward, but the bigger reward is being able to share some things … that have the potential to save lives.”

What to do before a long drive

“Make sure that your vehicle’s road trip ready,” Daly said. ”Really pay close attention to your tires, your coolant, your fan belt.”

She notes tire dealers often offer free inspections to ensure tires are properly inflated and undamaged.

AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz advises getting the whole car serviced before hitting the road.

“If you're a car person and you can, do that yourself at home, by all means,” she said. Otherwise, she recommends getting the oil changed and battery and tires checked professionally. 

To save time and avoid stress, Diaz also suggests filling up on gas the night before leaving and making hotel reservations well in advance, noting that many hotels allow cancellations without penalty up until the day beforehand. 

What do you need before a road trip?

It’s always good to keep an emergency kit with supplies like first aid, a flashlight and extra batteries, and basic tools in the vehicle.

“You want to make sure that if you do have a tire issue, you have the proper tools and jacks in your vehicle to be able to change it,” Daly said. She said warning signals like reflective triangles can also warn other drivers to steer clear in the event of a breakdown.

For road trips, both she and Diaz recommend shelf-stable snacks like protein bars that won’t melt and plenty of water. “Don't think that a bottle or two for everybody is enough,” Daly said. “You've got to have, you know, five or six bottles for everyone.” 

Diaz also recommends wet wipes, blankets during the winter, and any time-sensitive medication or pet food that might be needed in the event of an extended delay.

“These things ideally wouldn't take up too much room in your trunk but they're just good to have in case of an emergency,” Diaz said. “Just think, ‘If I were stuck for a long time, what would keep me comfortable until I was able to (get) help?’”  

A printed map and a general sense of the route can also help in case there GPS hiccups or a phone dies.  AAA’s free TripTik planner can help travelers plot their trips in advance and find rest stops, lodging, food and gas along the way. And its free Gas Cost Calculator can help locate the cheapest average gas prices for drivers when it’s time to refuel.

'Get out there': This mom is using a never-ending road trip to inspire Black family travel

What I should know before a road trip?

“Everything can be a distraction in the car – the radio, the kids, etc. But the phone is a big one,” Daly advised. “When you’re driving, that thing should not ever be in your hand.”

More than 3,500 people were killed on U.S. roads in 2021 because of distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration . 

Daly also recommends watching out for distracted drivers.

“You can tell a distracted driver by their fluctuating speed,” she warned. “They're drifting in their lane. Their head is looking down instead of focusing on the road. You want to give those people a wide berth.”

How long will a road trip take?

Road trips always take longer than expected because of traffic, construction and other things that arise en route.

Diaz says to expect at least an hour longer than whatever the GPS predicts. Daly recommends leaving at least two hours early.

“You don't want that stressful drive,” Daly said. “You’re hurrying. That lends to bad driving behaviors like tailgating and speeding, which leads to accidents. Don’t put yourself in that situation.”

How many hours a day should you drive on a road trip?

“It just varies so much from person to person, how long they’re comfortable driving,” Diaz said. “We want to err on the side of safety. We want people to be safe on the roads and drive the speed limit and not rush it, but everybody's different.”

Switching out drivers can lighten the load, but no matter who is driving, Daly said, “If you're starting to feel a little, less attentive, maybe a little fatigued, it’s time to take a break.”

What time is best to drive?

“We always recommend, especially during the holidays, leave early in the morning,” Diaz said. “The later you leave in the day, the worse it's going to be because a lot of times during the week … you're going to mix with those commuters on the road.”

“Some people enjoy night driving,” she added. “Once you get to like 8 p.m., 9 p.m. traffic comes down a lot.” 

However, she noted drivers who leave in the evening should watch out for fatigue and plan to drive less than if they started fresh in the morning.

How do you take a good road trip with kids? 

When possible, Daly recommends having a designated passenger to help with kids so the driver can focus on the road.  

Another important thing is to keep seatbelts on the whole way.

“Kids have a tendency to take those off,” Daly said. “Make sure they stay buckled up. I've seen some horrible things out there.”

'I just want to see more of us': The importance of seeing people like you while traveling

What do kids need on a road trip?

Entertainment helps pass the time, but it doesn’t have to be digital. There are all sorts of screen-free road trip games . 

Diaz recommends printing a map or list of sites or cities for kids to watch for along the way.

“You know, yell it out or mark it on your sheet,” she said. “Have some crayons in the car with them so they're following along on the trip, and they feel like they're part of it.”

“Point out historical landmarks and scenery; enjoy nature,” Daly echoed. “That's one of the things that we truck drivers love about our jobs is we get to see the country and nature.”

Stop at points of interest every few hours or simply for everyone to stretch their legs.

And for those times when kids are on screens, make sure to pack car chargers.

What is the best way to save gas?

Don’t speed. 

“Fuel economy peaks at around 50 miles per hour on most cars, and then it drops off as the speeds increase,” Diaz said. “You think, ‘OK, if I just go 70, I'm going to get there faster, and it'll be better,’ but essentially, you're just wasting gas at that point." Fuel economy can be increased by as much as 15% by reducing highway speeds by 5 to 10 miles per hour, she said.

Don’t idle unnecessarily either, like at rest stops.

“Your car engine consumes about a quarter to a half a gallon of fuel per hour while it's idling,” she said. “But a warm engine only takes about 10 seconds’ worth of fuel to restart, so if it's safe to do so, just shut off your engine.”

Story continues below.

What happens if my tire blows out?

“When you blow a tire, kaboom, it freaks you out. Do not panic,” Daly said. “Don't slow down abruptly or brake hard or jerk the wheel because that will cause you to lose control and have an accident.”

“Just focus on steering,” she added. “Slow very gradually, off to the side of the road in a safe area, and you won’t have any issue from your blown tire.”

How do you drive around semitrucks?

“Be aware of our needs and limitations,” Daly said. “You know we’re big. We need a lot of space around us. We have big blind spots. … If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in the mirrors of the truck, the truck driver can’t see you.”

She advised against passing on the right. 

“If you have to pass quickly, don’t linger over there. We see people driving over there for the shade (and it) puts us in a very dangerous situation,” she said. “And don’t cut in front of us and then hit your breaks. People don’t like to follow a truck because they can’t see around us, so they pass us and then cut in front of us.”

“It takes away that safety cushion we leave in front of us,” she added. “When you see all that space in front of a truck, that's not for your convenience so that you can pass us and cut into it. That’s for our safety and yours.”

By the same token, she advised fellow drivers to leave plenty of space in front of their own vehicles, so they have enough room to stop quickly in an emergency. If another driver cuts into that space, she suggested, “Take a break. Slow down again. Recreate that space. Bite your tongue and think pure thoughts.”

That last tip may not be so easy.

What has been your best or worst road trip experience?

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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