Packing for a bike tour

Wondering how to pack for your one-of-a-kind cycle tour?

Whether you've booked a pre-designed multi-day or day tour or you're embarking on one of our bespoke custom tours, you'll want to prep perfectly for the ultimate cycling experience.

Follow our fool-proof rules below to get ready for your unbeatable BikeTours.com adventure!

Haven't decided what trip you're taking? For inspiration, take a look at our top-rated tours like Portugal's Coastal Splendor from Porto to Lisbon, the Danube Bike Path, or our legendary Camino de Santiago: From Leon to Santiago. You can browse all tours here.

TOP TIP: PACK LIGHT

Try to limit yourself to a carry-on bag. It’s not a requirement - just a suggestion (consider airline fees and a potential lack of elevators!). It’s tricky but doable, especially if you plan ahead.

If you’re not sure if your suitcase is too heavy, carry it a couple of blocks at a fast pace or up a flight of stairs without stopping - if you’re uncomfortable, it’s too heavy!

On most of our bicycle tours, you’re on the move with little time for laundry and drying. So, when possible, travel with fast-drying clothing, from undergarments to outerwear. Synthetic fabrics/blends are not only the most breathable and quick-drying, they can also be the easiest to pack! The worst fabric to ride in is cotton.

A few tips for maximizing on limited packing space:

  • Stuff small items (e.g. socks, chargers) into hollow items (e.g. shoes, helmets, water bottles) - no dead space!
  • Use packing cubes to make the most of small spaces and make daily hotel moves a cinch.
  • Try stuff sacks - another helpful packing organizer.
  • Roll clothes to eliminate air and reduce wrinkles.

N.B. Bike rentals generally do not include helmets. Please check your tour inclusions to clarify whether you need to pack your own.

Suggested packing list:

Always check your tour’s inclusions and exclusions for suggestions on appropriate gear and equipment for your regular itinerary or custom-built bicycle tour. A general packing list is suggested below:

Equipment

  • Helmet
  • Water bottle
  • Waist pack/small day pack
  • Phone mount (to clamp your device to the handlebars)

Clothing

  • 2 pairs of bike shorts (we recommend padded shorts - please try these out before your tour)
  • 2 bike jerseys (quick-dry)
  • 2 pairs of cycling socks (quick-dry)
  • Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for biking and walking
  • Bike gloves
  • 2-3 casual shirts or t-shirts
  • Trousers or jeans
  • 1-2 pairs of casual socks for non-cycling activities
  • 3-5 pairs of underwear (quick-dry)
  • Cool-weather jacket
  • Rain jacket
  • Extra layers, gloves, hat and buff for cooler seasons or climates (thin, thermal, water-resistant)
  • Bathing suit
  • Casual shoes or sandals for non-cycling activities

For sunny escapes like the Coastal Islands of Southern Dalmatia, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit—you’ll be splitting your days between cycling and swimming.

For bike tours in cooler climates, such as Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, pack warm layers and cozy accessories. A lightweight puffer or insulated jacket will keep you warm without weighing you down.

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Hairbrush
  • Shampoo
  • Deodorant
  • Hand sanitizer

Miscellaneous

  • Passport, wallet, and ID
  • Health insurance card
  • Travel insurance card
  • Cash and/or credit cards
  • Camera (with spare battery)
  • Plastic bags (for dirty laundry, wet clothes)
  • Electronic chargers (for camera, e-reader, cell phone)
  • Adaptors or converters
  • Power bank

First aid kit

  • Insect repellent
  • Antiseptic cream or antibiotic ointment
  • Sunscreen
  • Band-aids and ‘Second Skin’ for blisters
  • Salve for chafing
  • Medications (in original bottles with your name on them)

Need some trip inspiration?

Take a look at some of our top bicycle tours to get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime trip:

Danube Cycle Path Passau - Budapest - Bike to Budapest along one of Europe's best-loved bicycle routes
Atlantic Coast of France - From the 'White City' of La Rochelle to the 'Wine City' of Bordeaux
Turkey's Coast from Bodrum to the Gulf of Gökova - An exquisite tour of coastal Turkey, exploring enchanting towns & landscapes
UNESCO Sites of Albania - Discover Albania's mountains, valleys and gorges
Bruges - Amsterdam by Bike and Boat - Bike between the iconic canal cities of Belgium and Holland
Denmark and Sweden by Sail and Bike - Discover the Baltic Sea, scenic isles, and historic Scandi cities
Cycling in the National Parks of Utah - Explore the unrivaled natural beauty of the colossal Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks
Premium Danube Cruise and Cycle - Exploring historic cities and scenic landscapes from Passau to Vienna
UNESCO Highlights of Dalmatia by E-Bike and Boat - Explore Southern Dalmatia from Split to Dubrovnik by e-bike

For further advice, read our comprehensive guide to bike touring for beginners!

Clothes
Tips on packing clothing for your bicycle tour, from essential, practical items to comfortable fabrics that'll optimize your enjoyment.

Gear and equipment
Helpful planning and packing information on what gear and equipment you'll need while on your bicycle tour. Tips, links, advice and more!