It's a word that's been incredibly trendy and Instagrammable lately. "I do bikepacking" sounds proud, it's a great conversation starter, and it looks pretty good on your CV. It's a bit like running and jogging. A different quality. Seriously, though, the word makes a lot of sense and describes a great activity. A bike trip represents what I love most about cycling: independence, freedom, and living at your own pace. In this article, I'll try to explain how bikepacking differs from a Sunday bike trip, what bikes are best for it, and whether any specialized equipment is required. I invite you to try it out!
Even more about cycling adventures - How to plan a bicycle trip and what to take with you?
Cycling is nothing new
Of course, the idea of "taking a bike, a tent, and some ground meat" has existed since bicycles had chains and two equal-sized wheels. Andrzej Bobkowski, for example, beautifully described such a journey in his highly recommended book "Szkice Piórkiem" (Sketches with a Feather). Today's backpacking, besides its appealing name, differs primarily in its reduced improvisation. Modern equipment is readily available and lighter, and therefore the hobby is becoming more accessible. That's cool (of course, we know that back then, only the toughest of riders could manage it). Technology also simplifies trip planning, and countless examples show that cycling can cover both a neighborhood and a continent. Therefore, a bike trip has ceased to be a "madness" and extravagance and has become a standard, yet still exciting, way to spend time. Why?
Bikepacking is, above all, independence
You ride at your own pace, not in a race against anyone. With friends or alone. You're not addicted to hotels or campsites. It's no wonder the pandemic and the ensuing lockdown have significantly boosted interest in this form of cycling. Bikepacking was easy to do, and for many people, it's become a natural. Cycling is the perfect way to explore the world, disconnect from civilization, and unwind. Sometimes for just a day or two, sometimes for months. What's more, a bike is relatively easy to repair in the event of a breakdown and inexpensive to maintain. Unlike a car, it can also easily travel through the forest, along a seaside path, or in a clearing. At least if it has the right tires. ;)
What's worth taking with you and how to pack it
First and foremost, basic tools and parts for maintaining your bike if necessary. Inner tubes, tire levers, and a pump for the base. I also recommend taking a small chain breaker, oil, and a multi-tool. Cable ties are a good choice for any trip. :) If you want to be prepared for anything, it's also a good idea to bring a spare derailleur hanger. Remember that bikepacking is a struggle to carry a lot of items. For this reason, a huge tool kit isn't the best idea.
The cycling part is behind us, now it's time to sleep and survive. You need somewhere to stay, but it doesn't necessarily have to be a tent. The problem with them is that most are quite heavy. Light and compact models are available, but you have to be prepared that they won't be cheap. A more affordable alternative is a hammock or a bivy tarp, which is essentially a sleeping bag cover. Close to nature. :) Besides that, we've taken care of the sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and accommodation.
A small camping stove with fuel and a pot will come in handy for heating up luncheon meats (or their vegan equivalents) and other delicacies. A mug, cutlery, and a good knife will also be useful. Some clothes for various weather conditions (be prepared for frequent washing), a spare power bank, and some provisions for starters, and you're good to go. Experienced hikers also recommend Tortex ketchup, which allows for painless swallowing of camping delicacies. I also recommend bringing pepper spray. You never know who or what you'll encounter.
Bikepacking panniers
Where to pack it all? In panniers, fanny packs, and saddlebags. Fortunately, the bikepacking craze has resulted in an influx of this type of equipment, while simultaneously driving down prices due to competition. Typically, the basic set consists of panniers that hang on the racks. Many bikes can also be equipped with front-mounted panniers, which provide a lot of space. If that's not an option, don't worry. Bags that fill the main triangle of the frame also work, as do stiffened, long panniers that mount under the seat. Add a roll-top handlebar bag, and you're all set. However, keep in mind that with small frames, fitting some panniers can be a challenge!
Check out bikepacking panniers in our store!
Which bike is best for bikepacking?
There are no limits or regulations. At the dawn of time, road bikes and related designs reigned supreme (more for lack of viable alternatives than by choice), then touring bikes timidly appeared. The 1980s and 1990s saw the dominance of the all-purpose mountain bike, and to this day, many travelers use them or trekking models. However, the genre with which bikepacking is most often associated today is gravel .
English Tour - LONDON by Bike
It's hard to say whether the explosion in gravel bike popularity fueled bikepacking or the other way around, but the fact is that both go hand in hand. Why? Because it's the perfect bike for long distances. MTBs are designed for fast, aggressive riding, which can quickly tire you out. Besides, they're inefficient on pavement. Trekking bikes make more sense, but they're heavy and slow. Meanwhile, gravel bikes fit right in with road bike heritage, comfortable handlebars that allow for frequent position changes, and wide tires. The geometry isn't old-school, but it's gentle on your back. You can zip along on both pavement and mud. Add to that the availability of models with vibration-absorbing steel frames, and you understand why almost all gravel bikes have a million mounting points for loads.
So bikepacking only on gravel?
Of course not! They're a great choice for many routes, but there's nothing stopping you from loading up your bike and hitting the road. I know people who've mounted panniers and tents to their fixed-gear bikes or ridden from Warsaw to the seaside on a supermarket bike pulled out of the basement. It's also a matter of personal preference – some people want to do some serious riding in the woods on a mountain bike in the meantime, or they simply prefer it. If you value an upright riding position, trekking bikes and cross bikes are recommended. Belt-pulled bikes are also an interesting option; they're easy to use and durable. The important thing is that adapting the bike isn't difficult. Even if you don't have a rack mount, there are plenty of adapters, seatpost mounts, and so on. Bikepacking is for everyone! :)
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