Be sure to pack everything with this checklist of essential bike touring equipment
Heading out on a cycling tour requires packing VERY light. But it does require some equipment. Yet it’s not always easy to know what clothing, personal care supplies and bike equipment are most essential. We’ve created a checklist to help you remember everything you need for a glitch-free tour on La Vélodyssée!
For your bike:
You’ll obviously need the right bike touring equipment for your trip. Here are the essentials:
- waterproof panniers or a trailer
- a helmet
- a bike lock
- a cycling multitool to tighten the bike
- a spanner to repair spokes and possible spare spokes
- lights for you and your bike
Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list. Feel free to adapt it to fit you and your needs. There are also bike repair shops all along La Vélodyssée. Check out the list of locations here.
Côté confort :
After a day of cycling, it is essential to have the comfort you need, especially if you are camping. Don't forget to bring:
- a tent for nights under the stars
- a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth
- a sleeping bag suited to the weather conditions
- a sleeping mat for a restful night
- an inflatable pillow for extra comfort
- Cutlery, a pocket knife, a water bottle, a camping stove and a gas canister for tasty meals in the open air
Côté vêtements :
Cycling for several days means taking a few different outfits. We recommend bringing:
- deux t-shirt à manches courtes
- deux t-shirt à manches longues
- a rain jacket/windbreaker
- une polaire
- des lunettes de soleil
- un pantalon
- un short
- une tenue de ville
- des baskets confortables
It also depends on the season you will be travelling in and the activities you have planned. In that case, remember to pack a swimsuit, hiking shoes and summer shoes!
Côté hygiène :
Look after your wellbeing by bringing the essential hygiene items:
un savon
un shampoing solide
une serviette micro-fibres
sun cream
a toothbrush and toothpaste
a deodorant
Don't forget to pack a first aid kit, with plasters in particular. We hope you won't need it, but you should have one with you for minor scrapes.
Survival kit: good habits before you set off
Repair kit
A good puncture repair kit is the foundation of any bike trip. You do not need to take everything, but do not forget the essentials: a pump (or two), patches, oil for the chain, a spare inner tube (or two), a spoke key and possibly some spare spokes. If things really go wrong, find out about the bike repairers located along La Vélodyssée.
Choose comfort
Wear comfortable clothes and pack a waterproof or windproof jacket, even in summer. Do not forget your toiletries: travelling by bike does not mean neglecting your well-being.
For the ride
- a bike suited to your route
- a comfortable saddle
- a helmet for your safety
- waterproof panniers to protect your belongings
If you do not have your own bike, check the list of bike rental shops along La Vélodyssée.
We hope this list will be a useful guide as you pack your bike touring equipment before setting off on your La Vélodyssée tour. It’s not a comprehensive list, so feel free to adapt it to your needs. Remember that you’ll probably also have to do some shopping while touring, so if you have fabric bags, this is your opportunity to use them.
Please send us your suggestions for the bike equipment you found most useful for a successful cycling tour.