Pack Light, Ride Free: My Two-Bag Cycling Trip Strategy
How to cut down on luggage for your multi-day bike adventure
Last year, I often found myself lugging around way too much gear on my cycling trips, even for shorter tours. This year, I'm simplifying. I'm going from three bags down to just two: a frame bag and a saddle bag. It's all about making the ride easier and more enjoyable.
Here's how I'm planning to save space and some tips you might find useful:
Team Up for Shared Gear: If you're riding with a group, talk to each other! Figure out who can carry the heavier, bulkier items like a pump, multi-tools, or bike locks. No need for everyone to bring their own.
Compress Your Clothes: Look for a bag with an inner liner that allows you to squeeze the air out. You'd be surprised how much extra room this creates.
Roll and Secure Your Clothing: Before you put clothes into your saddle bag, roll them tightly. To keep them compact, use bands to hold the rolls in place. (Check out the video for a visual!)
Smart Shoe Choices: Consider barefoot shoes if you need something for walking around – they pack super slim. Just make sure you've worn them a bit before your trip to get used to them. Otherwise, if you're not planning much off-bike walking, your cycling shoes might be all you need.
Rethink Underwear: You likely don't need a fresh pair of underwear for every day, especially if you're only wearing them for a few hours after cycling. Worst case, you can always wash them in the sink and hang them to dry.
Wash and Wear Cycling Shorts: Your cycling shorts can easily be washed in a sink with a bit of soap. They'll dry quickly in the bathroom or hanging outside.
Layer Up for Versatility: Instead of packing multiple jackets, use layers. A long-sleeve cycling shirt under a short-sleeve one, topped with a windstopper, can cover various temperatures. That same windstopper can double as a light jacket for evenings, saving you from bringing an extra one if you don't mind sacrificing a bit of style.
These small changes can make a big difference in how much you carry and how much you enjoy your ride. Watch this video that explains how I packed it all up:
What are your go-to tips for packing light on multi-day cycling trips? Share your ideas in the comments below!