Tips for Packing Your Cycle for Camping

One of the events that many people who cycle enjoy is going on long bike trails and 
camping throughout the trail. You may be wondering how you can do this successfully 
without overpacking, while still having the comforts you would like to bring. If you are 
seriously considering a camping and bike trail trip, here are some tips for the packing 
process.

Food Prep

The best tip that any cyclist can take to heart about a cycling and camping trip is the 
food prep. Make sure that you are not only bringing food that you will eat, but you are 
also bringing light weight options that give you the number of calories you will need to 
enjoy the trip. To make things easier, many people figure out their caloric intake for 
each day and get suitable MRE's from surplus stores. They also bring protein bars and 
water along with them to add to the calories for the day. These are all easy to pack, take 
up little space, and do not add much weight to the bag or bike. 

Microfiber Towel

A microfiber towel is very thin and can dry very quickly. They usually have a snap 
feature that allows you to hang them up easily without worry of them falling to the 
ground. This is a must have on a camping trail for bikers. They also come with small 
nylon bags so they can be stored easily during the actual riding part of the trip. They are 
antifungal which makes them even more of a must have. 

Small Fire Starting Kit

Make sure that before you stop with your packing and set your bag as ready to go, that 
you have a small fire starting kit and backup in your bag. The smallest and most readily 
available kit is just a windproof lighter of some kind. This is quick, easy, and gets things 
started. You may want to take a small fire starting bundle that is either DIY and made 
from dryer lint and a toilet paper roll or you may want to purchase one specifically for 
camping. Carrying a firestarter backup like a flint is also a good idea in case you run into 
issues with your lighter. 

Keep in mind, your first trip should be a trial run. Make sure you bring a journal to note 
your experience and to look back on. You can review your trip and decide what you 
need to change, accessories you should buy, or what to do on your next camping bike 
trail trip.


