What is bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a blend of cycling and minimalist camping that allows you to explore different landscapes along with the bikepacking essentials strapped to your bike. Unlike traditional cycle touring, bikepacking focuses on off-road rides using gravel paths, mountainous routes and backcountry routes. Bikepacking is all about off-road adventures using gravel paths and the freedom to travel in your own way. But what is bikepacking exactly? Let’s take a quick dive into this thrilling world, explore its essentials and look for the best gear that makes your journey worth it. 

What is Bikepacking?

So, what is bike packing? At its core, bikepacking is a form of adventure cycling where you can travel long distances on a cycle while carrying lightweight camping gear. Bike packing is a hybrid of backpacking and cycling that gives you access to routes which is usually impossible by cars. Unlike traditional cycle riding, bikepacking is all about exploring off-beat roads. Bikepacking embraces gravel roads, mountain trails and rugged terrains while offering an adventurous experience. 

The main appeal of bikepacking lies in its flexibility. You can choose routes that range from easy gravel paths to challenging mountain trails, depending on your skill level and sense of adventure. This flexibility makes bike-packing suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists. 

But what about what is bikepacking? Is it the same as bike packing? Although the terms can be used interchangeably, their meanings are different. Bike packing refers to carrying gear using panniers and racks on paved roads. On the contrary, bike-packing focuses on off-road terrains with frame bags and lightweight equipment. Knowing this distinction helps you choose the adventure that best suits you. 

Bikepacking Essentials: Tools to Get Started

To fully enjoy your bikepacking experience, the gear is necessary. Here are some  bikepacking essentials you shouldn't move without:

1. Bikepacking Bags: The types of bags you can carry include frame bags, handlebar bags, saddle packs, and top tube bags that are designed to carry gear without affecting performance.

2. Sleeping System: A lightweight tent, bivy sack, or hammock, along with a compact sleeping bag and sleeping pad for a peaceful sleep.

3. Cooking Gear: When on a long ride, cooking gear is a must. Carry a portable stove, fuel, lightweight cookware, and a water filtration system for preparing meals on the journey.

4. Navigation Tools: Google Maps, GPS devices, or smartphone apps made for off-road navigation help in staying on track while riding.

5. Repair Kit and First Aid: A basic bike repair kit, such as spare tubes, a multi-tool, and a first aid kit, can save you from potential challenges.

Understanding what bikepacking is involved striking a balance between comfort and minimalism, making sure that there are all the bikepacking essentials without overloading your bike.

Bikepacking Packing List:

Creating a comprehensive bike-packing packing list is important for making the trip a success.  Here’s what you need:

• Food and Water: While riding, it is obvious that you might dehydrate. For that, carrying water and food is necessary. Make sure to carry high-calorie snacks, dehydrated meals, and enough water for the journey. A hydration bladder or water bottles are important things to carry.

• Camping Gear: Ultralight tent, sleeping bag, and a compact sleeping pad.

• Bike Repair Kit: Anything can happen at any moment; that’s why carrying multi-tool, spare tubes, tyre levers, and a portable pump is necessary.

• Navigation Tools: While going too far on a ride, a GPS device or smartphone with offline maps is a must-have.

• Personal Items: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit are tools needed at the time of emergency.

Tailoring your bikepacking packing list to your destination and duration is an important task. In case you are new to bikepacking, start with a shorter trip to improve your packing strategy. This also helps you figure out bike-packing what to pack based on weather, terrain, and duration of the trip. 

Bikepacking: Things to Pack for Different Terrains

Knowing bikepacking what to pack and the best bikepacking bikes depends on the terrain you plan to conquer. For example:

• Gravel Routes: Gravel routes require wider tyres, durable wheels and lightweight camping gear. Bikepacking gravel trails are suitable for beginners because of their smooth surfaces.

• Mountain Trails: For mountainous trails, a mountain bike with full suspension and a sturdy setup is ideal. These routes demand more effort and skills, but in the end, you get breathtaking views.

• Urban Explorations: For riding within the city, minimal and compact storage solutions are best for navigating crowded streets and urban landscapes.

Whether you’re tackling bike-packing gravel trails or mountain paths, knowing what to include in the bike-packing list gives you the best experience. It's all about being prepared while keeping things minimal.

Best Bikepacking Bikes: Choosing the Right Ride

Choosing the right bike is crucial for an enjoyable bikepacking adventure. Here are some of the best bikepacking bikes to consider:

• Gravel Bikes: These bikes are lightweight and designed for handling mixed terrains. They are the best choice for bikepacking gravel routes.

• Mountain Bikes: This bike is durable and equipped with full suspension for rugged trails, making it the best mountain bike option for bikepacking.

• Touring Bikes: As the name suggests, the touring bikes are made for long distances, especially on paved roads. With this feature, the ride is more comfortable and stable.

• Electric Bikes: Electric bikes have the extra power required for challenging routes. Knowing how electric bike works helps increase the battery life.

The best bikepacking bikes depend on the riding style and the terrain. Gravel bikes are popular due to their better grip, while mountain bikes are sturdy for challenging paths. Lastly, for steep climbs, the best e-bike is your true companion.

Bikepacking Gravel: The Ultimate Adventure Path

Bikepacking gravel routes are a mixture of adventure and challenge. These routes have less traffic and allow you to connect with nature. Gravel baths give a balance between smooth and rough surfaces, making them ideal for beginners and experienced bickpackers. For the best experience, choose a gravel bike with wide tyres for better stability. Pack all the things for self-sufficiency, as the remoteness may scare you while completing remote trails. Having the right bikepacking gravel can change the entire ride.

FAQ

Q1: Is there a special bike required for bikepacking?

Ans: Although specialised bike-packing bikes like gravel or mountain bikes have better stability and durability, you can start bikepacking on any bike that suits the route. Hybrid bikes or touring bikes work well on smoother surfaces. The bike should be well-maintained and capable of securely accommodating bikepacking bags. 

Q2: What’s the difference between backpacking and cycle touring?

Ans: Bikepacking focuses on off-road trails with lightweight gear and specialised bags attached to the bike frame. The trail involves gravel paths and mountain trails. In contrast, cycle touring uses panniers and racks for carrying gear that is stuck to the paved roads during long-distance travel.

Q3: How to find bikepacking routes?

Ans: There are bikepacking routes available on various websites, mobile apps and local cycling communities. Generally, bikepacking websites have a detailed section for different route guides, such as terrain descriptions, camping spots, and water sources. 

Q4: What food is ideal for bikepacking?

Ans: For backpacking, pack lightweight, high-energy foods such as dehydrated meals, nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits. Instant oatmeal, pasta, and ready-to-eat packets are useful for cooking on campsite. Also, make sure to carry enough water and a portable water filter if your route lacks reliable water sources.