You go on a cycling trip and take with you

Suitcase stress? We'll help you!

By now you are an expert in packing your suitcase for a city trip, for example. But what should you pay extra attention to when you go on (your first) cycling holiday? What should not be missing from the packing list? What things should you not forget? We will help you with a handy checklist, so that you do not forget anything!

Things you easily forget

Let's start with your standard bike gear. You're going to be doing long rides, so we recommend 2 x 750ml water bottles. Cyclists often drink too little, so bring enough. We also always put on buttocks grease to prevent irritation. In the mountains, a handlebar bag is recommended. Then you can bring some extra clothing in case the weather changes.

Of course you also have a bike computer to keep track of your performance. You also have a front and rear light on your bike. If you cycle in the mountains, you will regularly encounter a tunnel. There are also usually no cycle paths abroad, so make sure you are visible. Take chargers and/or batteries with you for the bike computer and lights. Flat batteries are also useful if your speed, cadence or power meter breaks down.

Handy extras

Extra things you don't think of so quickly... Your bike is being transported, for that you have handy foam rolls to protect the important parts. You can also take tape to repair light damage to your handlebar tape. This often happens when 2 bikes are going on the back to the mountains.

You're going to cycle for a long time in nature, take that in. If you prefer to listen to music or a podcast, Shokz are recommended. This way you can continue to hear the ambient sounds. By the way, you can't always pay with your phone or debit card abroad. Finally, a so-called ass saver is nice when the road is wet. Then the water doesn't splash against your buttocks and you prevent it from chafing on your long ride.

Checklist of useful items

• Buttock fat or chamois cream
• Water bottles
• Handlebar bag
• Bicycle computer
• Chargers
• (Flat) batteries
• Lights
• Foam and tape
• Earphones or Shokz
• Ass saver
• Cash, telephone, debit card and ID

Your bike in optimal condition

Nothing is as bad as your bike having a defect while you have a nice ride on the program. Therefore, make sure that your bike appears at the start in good condition. Of course, you also clean your bike properly after every ride. Of course, you want to shine during your cycling highlight of the year!

Also read: Check your equipment before your trip!

Maintenance supplies checklist

• Saddlebag
• Spare parts: inner tubes, tire levers, CO2 cartridges and attachment
• Bicycle pump with barometer
• Allen key
• Chain tool with spare link
• Boa repair kit for your cycling shoes
• Any other tools and spare parts
• Degreaser
• Brushes
• Wash mitt or towels
• Chain oil or wax

Food is your fuel

On the mountain with perhaps the most beautiful name, the Tre Cime de Lavaredo in the Dolomites, it happened. This climb is not very long, but the last 4km at 12% are very tough. I needed quick energy and still had a gel in my back pocket, which I took. I had never had this gel before and I knew it. My stomach practically turned over, during an already heavy effort. The most important advice: train regularly at home with the sports nutrition that you want to take with you!

Also read: Cycling in the mountains: Stacking! Or not?

Nutrition checklist (adjustable to preference)

• Bananas
• Dates
• White bread with jam
• Gels
• Strips
• Sports drink
• Energy tablets

Clothing in the mountains

You take 2 or more sets of basic cycling clothing with you, so that you don't have to wash it every day. And then it also has time to dry of course. What clothing items should you think of when you go on a cycling holiday in the mountains?

Also read: 10 handy clothing tips for cycling in the mountains.

Cycling clothing checklist

• Helmet
• Cycling glasses(s)
• Cycling shoes
• Cycling socks
• Cycling jerseys
• Cycling shorts
• Sweat shirt
• Thermal shirt (with long sleeves)
• Sweatband
• Buff
• Winter coat
• Wind vest
• Raincoat
• Arm warmers
• Leg pieces
• Gloves
• Toe covers and/or overshoes

Traveling with CYCLOsportive

As you can read, there are quite a few things to think about for your bike trip to the mountains. And then we haven't even talked about what else can break on your bike, such as spokes, brake pads, cables, etc. If you go on a bike trip to the mountains with us, we will take care of everything for you. There is a mechanic who will always get your bike going again. Sports nutrition is also included. That saves you a lot of effort. You still have to pedal yourself!

Are there any things missing from the list? What is essential for you? Let us know: jeroen@cyclosportive-travel.nl