The Bikepacking Pack List

Through my various bikepacking trips I've refined my list to everything I need and nothing extra. It doesn't really change for a 2, 3 or 4 day trip.

Here is my good-weather list for bikepacking through the Alps. You'll notice no tent... I have immense respect for people cycling up a pass with all that gear but I stay in hotels and hostels.

Remember you carry everything you pack up each Alpine pass.

Toiletries & Personal Care

I like using old contact lens holders for decanting things like sunblock or moisturiser.

Sunblock - non-negotiable
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Deodorant & soap - negotiable according to my boyfriend
Face moisturiser
Antibiotic cream
Contacts & a holder pre-loaded with fluid - if you need them like me.
Backup glasses
Hair tie

Chamois cream is worth considering.

Off-Bike Clothes

Pack smart.

Underwear x1
Thin long pants - for cool evenings in the mountains.
Shirt to wear & sleep in
Sandals/flip-flops

Worth the money: Merino. Light, can be worn several days without smelling, dries fast. It costs more but it earns its place in a small bag.

On-Bike Clothes

You'll wear half of it out the door on day one and pack the rest. Rinse each evening and strap on to dry the next day.

What you're wearing out the door:

Cycle shorts
Cycle jersey
Sports bra
Socks
Gloves
Base layer (cool mornings)

What you pack:

Extra cycle jersey - so one can dry while you wear the other.
Extra sports bra
Extra socks
Extra cycle shorts - a nice luxury, but I like having a dry pair ready.
Arm warmers - this is my emergency warm gear.
Wind jacket - for descents and in the evening.

Tech, Lights & Fuel

Phone & bike computer charger
Bike computer
Heart rate monitor (optional)
Lights - front and rear.
Phone
Bottles - at least two.
Gels & fuel - I pack gels for the first day or two and switch to gummies from the grocery store when I run out.
Sunglasses
Cash & ID

The Bike Itself

Bike
Cleats
Helmet

Saddle bag: 2x spare tube, tire levers, pump or CO2, multi-tool. For multi-day trips.

If you really need something, you can buy it along the way.

Let me know what your luxury item is.