Packing for a cycling trip can be very stressful. Leaving things to the last minute, rushing around trying to remember everything you need. We are limited to the things we can take on a vacation which makes packing with cycling in mind very difficult.

Today we will go over a sort of “checklist” to help you prepare for your next cycling vacation!

We resisted the temptation to include everything you might ever possibly need. It’s nice to be comprehensive but if you took all that kit, you’d resemble a mobile bike repair shop. we go over the necessities as well as some of the luxuries you may afford to bring!

The Essentials

The first thing to do is to figure out if you are gonna bring your own bike or rent a bike to your destination. If you are interested in traveling with your bike we suggest reading our “Travelling With Your Bike Guide” to get up to speed on everything you need to know about traveling with your bike. Renting a bike would make the travel process easier but in the end, it’s up to you! Luckily many cycling companies have incredibly well-maintained bikes for rent! Check out the Bici Bucerias Bike fleet here!

If Traveling with a bike we suggest:

• Service or get your bike services

• Pre-book bike space on flight (Check with Airline)

• Make sure if you have a connection that the other flight will have room for your bike.

• Pre-check the weather. Make sure to see what you are up against so you can pack accordingly

• Check travel insurance up to date and covers road cycling

Biking Gear

If you are bringing your bike:

• Bike

• Helmet

• Shoes

• Pedals

• Flashers

• Sunglasses

• Water bottles

• Bike lock

• Saddlebag

Tools

Pump (compressed gas canisters are likely to be confiscated if you’re flying)

• 3 or 4 inner tubes 2 plastic tire levers

• Multi-tool

• Pedal spanner/Allan key for your pedal

• Any Torx keys or bike-specific tools you need

• Chain lube

Optional Tools & Spare Parts

• Brake pads (2 spare sets or more)

• Chain Powerlink

• Spare shift and brake cables

• Chain

• Chain splitter

• Spare tire

Renting A Bike:

Renting a bike may be the easiest way to cycle when on vacation. We recommend doing research on companies in the areas you are traveling in.

• Find out what size of bike you ride.

• Find out what items they will provide and pack according

• Helmet

• Shoes

• Pedals

• Flashers

• Sunglasses

• Water bottles

• Bike lock

• Saddlebag

Clothing

• Jerseys

• Long sleeve jerseys

• Bibs / Shorts

• Socks

• Arm warmers

• Leg warmers

• Jacket

• Gloves

• Cap / Hat

If you are traveling somewhere colder bring extra arm and leg warmers and some underlayers.

Electronics

• Phone and charger

• Camera and charger

• Bike camera and charger 

• Bike computer and charger/USB cable

• Laptop/tablet and charger

• Heart rate monitor 

• Plug socket adaptors

• Small flashlight or headtorch

Other Items:

• Stash of favorite bars/gels

• Energy drink powder

• Recovery drink powder

• Hydration tablets

• Suncream

• First aid (painkillers, disinfectant, insect repellent, plasters/band-aids, antihistamine cream)

• Personal medication

• Wash kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, body wash, shampoo, conditioner)

Planning a trip can be stressful, but with a little organization, it can make your life a little easier. we hope this list helped you prepare for your next trip!