Beginner Bikepacking Guide for First-Timers: Bikepacking 101

What Is Bikepacking? 🤔

Bikepacking is like backpacking, but you swap hiking boots for a bike. Your gear fits into compact bags attached to your bike’s frame, so you can pedal farther and explore remote trails or quiet roads. It’s just you and your bike, ready for an adventure wherever the path takes you. To make your journey meaningful, consider traveling with purpose to connect deeply with the landscapes and communities you encounter.

“Bikepacking isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the journey.”

Why Choose Bikepacking? Benefits for Beginners

Why bikepacking is awesome for beginners:

• Set Your Own Speed: Go as fast or slow as you want and pick trails that look fun to explore.
• Find Cool Spots: Stumble on peaceful paths or awesome views that make you feel part of the outdoors.
• Get a Workout: Stay fit while pedaling through some seriously pretty scenery.
• Tread Lightly: Travel in a way that’s kind to the planet, perfect if you’re into keeping things green.
• Build Confidence: Challenge yourself and feel stronger with every mile.

Planning Your Trip: A Beginner Bikepacking Guide for First-Timers 🗺️

Good planning makes all the difference for a first-time bikepacking adventure. If you’re new to this, start with a short trip to get the hang of things. A short weekend trip is a great way to test the waters before planning longer adventures.

Choosing Beginner-Friendly Routes 📍

Choosing the right route can make your trip enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s what to keep in mind for an easy first ride.

• Distance: Plan for 20–30 miles a day—manageable for most new bikepackers.
• Terrain: Look for flat or slightly rolling trails to keep your energy up through the day.
• Surface: Choose paved roads or smooth gravel paths, as rocky singletrack can be tough with a loaded bike.
• Accessibility: Choose routes you can drive or take a bus to for stress-free starts and finishes.
• Amenities: Make sure you’ve got spots to grab water, camp, or hit up a store for snacks.
• Safety: Do a quick check for things like busy roads or wild weather before you go.

Looking for ideas? Pop over to Bikepacking.com for beginner-friendly routes around the globe. Apps like Komoot, Ride with GPS, or Bikemap are also lifesavers, and your local bike shop might have some killer route suggestions too.

Planning Your Itinerary 🗓️

Got your route? Awesome. Now map out your days to keep things smooth. Think about these when planning:

Gear Up for Your Ride 🔧

Before you hit the trail, make sure your bike is in tip-top shape. Start by picking the right ride: gravel bikes are super versatile for mixed roads, mountain bikes tackle rough trails, and road bikes are great for pavement. If you’re just starting out, a gravel bike is a solid choice for camping adventures. Then, give these parts a once-over:

• Tires: Look for wear and pump them up to the right pressure.
• Brakes: Make sure they grab well and have plenty of pad left.
• Chain: Clean and lube it for silky-smooth pedaling.
• Gears: Check that they shift without a hitch.
• Bolts: Tighten everything, especially on racks and bags.
• Wheels: Ensure they’re straight with snug spokes.
• Cables: Swap out any that look worn or frayed.

For extra confidence, swing by a bike shop for a professional tune-up before you roll out. Curious about the best gear to carry? Check out our recommendations for essential bike touring gear to ensure you’re equipped for the journey.

Pack Smart for Your First Overnighter 🎒

Packing for bikepacking is all about finding the sweet spot between having what you need and keeping your bike light. This section breaks down everything you’ll need to hit the trail prepared—without feeling like you’re hauling a house.

Bike Bags: What Goes Where

The frame bag carries the heavy stuff like water and tools inside the triangle for balance. Bulky items such as a sleeping bag ride well in a handlebar bag. Lighter pieces like a sleeping pad live in the seat bag. Keep quick-grab snacks and small essentials in a top tube bag right under your hands.

Shelter Options for Your First Trip

A tent gives the most protection, a bivy is compact for minimalists and handles light wind or drizzle, and a tarp is the lightest, letting you pitch to match the conditions.

Sleep Setup for First-Time Bikepacking

Pair a weather-appropriate sleeping bag with an insulating pad for warmth and comfort, and add a small inflatable pillow to help you sleep well.

Cooking Gear for Trail Meals

• Stove: A portable stove for boiling water quickly on the go.
• Cookware: A lightweight pot or pan for simple meals, like oatmeal or pasta.
• Utensils: Bring a spoon, fork, and knife for eating on the trail.
• Food: Choose high-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or protein bars.

Clothing for Your Ride

• Cycling Shorts: Padded for comfort.
• Cycling Jersey: Moisture-wicking to stay cool.
• Base Layers: Regulate body temperature.
• Rain Jacket: Waterproof and breathable.
• Warm Jacket: For chilly evenings.
• Gloves: Protect hands from blisters and cold.
• Socks: Moisture-wicking for dry feet.
• Shoes: Cycling or sturdy hiking shoes.

Navigation Tools for the Trail

Use a GPS device to keep you on track, carry a paper map and compass as reliable backups, and bring your phone for apps and extra navigation options.

Tools and Repair Kit for Emergencies

• Multi-Tool: Includes wrenches, screwdrivers, and chain tool.
• Tire Levers: For tire removal.
• Spare Tubes: At least two.
• Patch Kit: For punctures.
• Pump or CO2 Inflator: For tire inflation.
• Chain Lube: Keep chain smooth.
• Duct Tape: For quick fixes.
• Zip Ties: For repairs.

First Aid and Essentials for Your Trip

• First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment, insect repellent, sunscreen.
• Water Bottles/Hydration Pack: For carrying water.
• Water Filter/Purification Tablets: For natural water sources.
• Headlamp/Flashlight: For nighttime navigation.
• Sunglasses: Protect eyes from sun.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap.
• Cash/Credit Card: For emergencies.
• Identification: Driver’s license or passport.
• Phone Charger: To keep your phone powered.
• Dry Bags: Keep gear dry.
• Trash Bags: Pack out all waste.

Pack Light, Ride Right ⚖️

Want to make your bikepacking trip even smoother? Keep your load light with these handy tricks:

• Weigh Your Gear: Grab a kitchen scale and check the weight of every item—every ounce counts!
• Multi-Tasking Gear: Pick items that pull double duty, like a bandana that works as a sweat rag, towel, or face cover.
• Ditch the Extras: Be tough on yourself—only pack what you absolutely need.
• Team Up: If you’re riding with a buddy, split shared stuff like cooking gear to cut weight.
• Match the Weather: Pack clothes that suit the forecast to avoid carrying unnecessary layers.

To capture your lightweight setup in stunning detail, explore our adventure photography tips for snapping epic shots on the go.

Riding Tips for First-Time Bikepacking 🚴

Your bike’s ready, your bags are packed—time to ride! These tips will help you cruise through your trip with ease:

• Ease In: Take it slow on day one to get used to your bike’s new weight.
• Break Time: Stop often to rest, sip water, and munch on snacks.
• Find Your Rhythm: Keep a steady pace you can hold all day.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly, even if you’re not super thirsty.
• Fuel Up: Nibble on snacks to keep your energy tank full.
• Stay Alert: Keep an eye out for cars, critters, or sketchy trail conditions.
• Respect Nature: Take all your trash with you to keep the trails pristine.
• Roll with It: Be ready to tweak your plans if weather or bike issues pop up.
• Have Fun: Take in the scenery and love every mile!

Common Mistakes to Avoid ⚠️

Even with planning, mistakes happen. Here’s how to sidestep common pitfalls:

• Overpacking: Weigh gear and leave non-essentials behind.
• Poor Bike Fit: Get a professional bike fit to avoid discomfort.
• Improper Bag Packing: Place heavier items in the frame bag for balance.
• Ignoring Mechanical Issues: Fix problems immediately to prevent breakdowns.
• Not Planning for Weather: Check forecasts and pack accordingly.
• Underestimating Difficulty: Start with easy routes and build experience.
• Not Enough Water: Carry ample water and know refill points.

Safety Tips for First-Time Bikepackers 🛡️

Staying safe means you can focus on the fun. Here’s how to keep things secure:

• Wear a Helmet: Protect your head—it’s non-negotiable.
• Stay Visible: Wear bright clothing and use lights during dawn, dusk, or night rides.
• Follow Road Rules: Stick to traffic laws, especially on shared roads.
• Ride Smart: Anticipate what drivers or other trail users might do.
• Share Your Plans: Let someone know your route and when you’ll be back.
• Carry a Satellite Messenger: Stay connected in areas without cell service.
• Watch for Wildlife: Learn how to safely avoid animals on the trail.
• Pack Bear Spray: In bear country, consider carrying bear spray—where legal and appropriate—and learn how to use it.
• Listen to Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, trust yourself and leave quickly.

What’s Next for Your Journey

Your first bikepacking trip is the spark for some incredible adventures. As you get the hang of it, plan a longer ride or try a trail with a bit more challenge, like a gravel path with some climbs. For inspiration, read about lessons from bikepacking across the West to fuel your next big ride. Pop into online groups or swing by your local bike shop to share stories with other riders and maybe join a weekend group ride. I always revisit guides like this when I’m mapping out a new trip, so save it for your next adventure.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Bikepacking

Bikepacking is way more than just a bike ride. It’s loading up your gear, hitting a quiet trail, and cherishing little things like the wind as you pedal or the view after climbing a tough hill. Each trip makes you feel more capable and eager for the next one. Last summer, I pitched my tent by a lake after a 20-mile ride, and that sunset still sticks with me. Get your bike set, pack light, and head out to create your own stories. This guide and essentials checklist will get you ready for an awesome first ride.

Start small, learn what works, and let your next ride be a little bolder. When your bags are packed and your route is set, the only thing left is to roll out and make the story yours.

Before you go, bookmark this beginner bikepacking guide for first-timers for your next ride.