The simple guide to what to bring for a great day’s bike ride

When I have been asking around with friends for the next post that they would like to see, a lot of them have asked me for advice on what to take on a day ride. So below I have set out my own checklist in rough order of importance.  Feel free to adapt as you wish and according to the distance, weather and terrain.

Water

This should always be Number One on your list and you should take enough of it.  My rule of thumb is 500 ml of water per 20-25 km but more when it is hot.  What that means is taking two decent sized bike bottles – bidon – for a day ride of between 30-50 km. I strongly recommend having two bottle cages on the frame of your bike and for hotter or longer days, taking an additional bottle in a pannier/ handlebar bag/ backpack. In winter, I pack a thermos bottle such as the ones made by Deboyo.

Bike multitool, spare inner tube, mini-pump, and tyre levers

Next on my list is the ability to deal with a flat tyre or mechanical problem.  It happens rarely but when it does, you need to be ready.  If you haven’t got one already, I strongly recommend a decent multitool – Allen keys and chain remover. It doesn’t take much space but can get you out of a pickle or just deal with that irritating noise that you hear.  

You don’t need to take a spare inner tube: you could always take a puncture repair kit like the old days.  But really, do you want to be spending your time doing all that?  Keep the repair kit at home for the damaged inner tube and get on with your riding.

First aid kit and emergency blanket

I have been carrying a small first aid kit for years and an emergency blanket folded up to the size of a credit card – Merci, Mel – and never had to use either on a day ride.  But there is always the first time.  A few bandages, antiseptic cream, wipes, paracetamol and some gloves will get you out of most scrapes.  Literally.

Wallet/purse and smartphone

Of course.  If you really want to save weight, just carry your bank card. I sometimes also pack earphones.

Tissues, wipes, disposable plastic gloves

You never know what nature will throw at you.  Come prepared.

A basic lock

If I am riding out in the countryside, I take a very lightweight lock made by Hiplock.  This is enough for me to be able to take a coffee/ beer/ ice cream/ call of nature stop without worrying.  It is light enough not to drag me down but secure enough to deter a thief in a public place.

An extra layer/ rain jacket

Especially when riding in spring and autumn, it can be difficult to predict how warmly to dress.  Setting off on a recent Sunday, it was super chilly setting out, I warmed up quickly, and then cooled off equally quickly every time I stopped.  The solution?  A lightweight wind jacket that will pack up small when off the bike so can easily be stowed in the back of your bike jersey/ your handlebar bag when not needed.

From spring to autumn, I take a similar approach with a lightweight packable rain jacket that attaches to the seat post when not needed.

Food/ sugar

It is always worth having a small energy boost with you to take mid-ride. This can be fruit & nuts, chocolate, Haribo – the fuel of champions – waffles, a banana, glucose tablets, whatever floats your boat.

Seasonal items

In summer, I pack a small tube of sun cream plus sunglasses and possibly a small flannel.

For winter, I sometimes pack a spare pair of gloves in case it is wet and cold. I might also pack lights.

How to carry everything

This really depends on your bike set up.  When I can, I load everything into my handlebar bag, just to keep it all in sight and easily accessible.  But a rear pannier bag or small backpack can also work.  Indeed for winter days, the extra space of the rear bag gives me more options.

So what do you think? Too much stuff or am I missing something? Let me know. I always love to read comments.