Gear Guide for Biking Long Distances: What to Wear and Pack

Long-distance biking is a mix of joy, grit, and smart planning. Whether it’s a weeklong bikepacking trip or a full-blown cross-country tour, the gear you carry can make or break the journey.

You don’t need to bring the kitchen sink, but you do need reliable gear. Every ounce counts. Weight matters. Comfort matters more. And so does preparation.

If you're wondering what to wear and pack on a bike tour, this guide is built for you. From shelter systems to first aid, here’s your complete checklist for long rides.

Shelter and Sleeping

When you’re pedaling for days, rest is crucial. Your shelter and sleep system should be lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant.

Shelter

Let’s start with the basics—your home on the road. Cycle touring tents are a solid choice, offering privacy and protection. The MSR Hubba Hubba 3 is a go-to for many cyclists. It’s easy to pitch, freestanding, and handles bad weather well. If you're aiming for ultralight, the SplitWing Shelter with poles and bug netting can do the trick. Tarps and bivy sacks are lighter but sacrifice comfort.

Pack a groundsheet to protect the floor. A few extra grams can save your tent from sharp rocks and moisture.

Sleep System

Good sleep boosts performance. You’ll want a quality sleeping bag and pad. The Katabatic Flex 40 is compact and versatile for three-season trips. Pair it with an insulated sleeping pad like the Exped DownMat 7 to stay warm and comfortable.

Add a compact pillow or stuff clothes in a dry sack for head support. If you’ve ever woken up with a stiff neck in the wild, you know it's worth packing.

Food and Water

Fueling your body is just as important as fueling your bike. Planning for meals and hydration will keep you energized across hundreds of miles.

Water

Let’s not complicate it: staying hydrated is non-negotiable. Carry two or more water bottles on your frame. For off-grid stretches, a water filter is your lifeline. The Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree work well for small streams and lakes.

Consider a hydration bladder for longer stints. Add electrolyte tablets to replace salts lost through sweat. In scorching heat, those tablets can make a massive difference.

Repair Kit and Spares

Bikes break. Trails bite back. So, plan for mechanical problems before they leave you stranded miles from anywhere.

Repair and Maintenance

A solid repair kit keeps you rolling. Include a multi-tool with Allen wrenches, chain breaker, and screwdriver heads. The Topeak Turbo Morph G pump works better than tiny frame pumps. Also carry chain lube, zip ties, and a small rag. If you have disc brakes, bring a rotor truing tool.

A rear vision mirror helps you avoid surprises on busy roads. Small details like that add huge safety points.

Tire Repair

Tubeless setups are standard for long rides. Carry tubeless sealant, valve cores, and a couple of tire plugs. Tyre levers are a must, even if you're an old hand. For bigger punctures, patch kits and spare tubes are essential. A CO₂ inflator is handy for fast top-ups, but don’t rely on it alone.

Bring a small bottle of soapy water to find slow leaks. Sounds silly—but it works.

Spares

Spare parts can save the ride. Pack extra brake pads, derailleur hanger, spokes, and a small length of chain. If your bike uses SRAM RED XPLR or a Classified system, bring system-specific tools or adapters.

Tiny parts like bolts, nuts, or valve caps may seem unnecessary—until you lose one in gravel. A tiny zip pouch for these odds and ends keeps them handy.

Clothing and Layers

Clothing on long tours isn't about fashion—it’s about function. Comfort, weather protection, and breathability are the priorities.

Start with padded cycling shorts like the Castelli Free Aero RC bib shorts. They reduce saddle sores and add mileage comfort. For upper layers, the Mont Venture shirt dries quickly and keeps you cool. Pack a waterproof layer like the POC Supreme rain jacket or GOREWEAR GC5 GORE-TEX SHAKEDRY.

Add a wind vest for high-speed descents or breezy mornings. Don’t forget gloves, warm socks, and a sun hat.

Shoes matter too. If you prefer flat pedals, use something grippy and rugged like the Trek RSL Mountain Bike Shoe. For clip-ins, go with comfort over stiffness unless you're racing.

And yes—always bring extra underwear.

Toiletries

You don’t need a full bathroom kit, but hygiene keeps infections and discomfort at bay.

Bring essentials: a toothbrush (GUM Folding Travel Toothbrush), toothpaste, sunscreen, and lip balm like Sun Bum SPF 30. Include a Linda exfoliating glove to scrub off sweat and grime. Nail clippers, K-Y Jelly (for saddle friction), and Body Glide help too.

For shaving or grooming, the Philips Multigroom is compact. Don’t forget a universal sink plug for hand-washing clothes. A small towel and biodegradable soap round it out.

If you’ll be passing through different countries, pack a Vaincre universal plug for electronics.

Electronics and Extras

Power, tracking, and lighting gear enhance safety and convenience. Here’s what to consider.

Carry a cycling computer like the Garmin Edge 1040 Solar for navigation and performance tracking. Its solar panel extends battery life. Pair it with a Garmin Edge TT/Tri Bar Mount for better visibility. If you wear a smartwatch, the Garmin Fenix 7X Sapphire Solar gives extra data and safety alerts.

Install a Garmin Varia RTL515 for rear radar. It warns of traffic approaching from behind.

Use an Apple AirTag hidden in your frame bag or saddle. If your bike is stolen, it increases your recovery chances.

Extras like a dynamo hub or power bank can keep your lights and devices running. Store them in bikepacking bags like Rogue Panda or Rockgeist Honeypot Feedbag.

Safety and First Aid

Crashes, bites, and burns happen. A well-stocked first aid kit gives you control when things go sideways.

First Aid Kit

Your kit should cover cuts, blisters, allergies, and minor pain. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, and medical tape. Add tweezers, gauze pads, and scissors.

Pack over-the-counter meds: ibuprofen, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal tablets. If you have known allergies, bring your EpiPen. Add Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray for bug protection.

Write your medical info on a card and keep it in your handlebar bag. Include emergency contacts and allergies. If you’re unconscious, responders need fast details.

Attach a small whistle to your pack. It might save your life if you're stuck in the wild.

Conclusion

Planning a long-distance bike ride takes more than just spirit—it takes strategy. The right gear keeps you safe, efficient, and prepared for what the road throws at you.

From shelters to spare valve cores, every item has its purpose. You don’t have to bring everything—just what makes sense for your route. The more you ride, the better you’ll refine your setup.

Now it's your turn. What’s on your must-have list for long bike tours? Start building your setup with this guide and tweak it as you gain experience.

Happy riding. Ride far, ride smart.