Cycle trip kit basics
Having the right kit can make the difference from a pleasant jaunt in the countryside to being stranded in the rain on a remote Scottish island. My kit list has evolved over the years and yours will too, but here's what I take with me on a short (1-2 day) trip:
Bags
I usually have three bags:
A bum bag: I wear this across my body for small things that I need to get access to regularly. i.e. money, phone and a snack.
A small saddle bag: This is for my tools and usually includes a spare inner tube, tyre levers, a multitool, suncream, fly spray and a flapjack.
A backpack: More info on what goes in here to follow but let me tell you about the best thing I've ever bought - The Ortlieb Velocity Backpack. I bought mine about 3 years ago and I use it every single day, it's brilliant for commuting, touring and doing your weekly shop! You can buy them here: https://www.tredz.co.uk/.Ortlieb-Velocity-Backpack_79047.htm
What to wear
I wear the same combination of items on almost all rides, layers are important here:
Sports bra
Sports vest (I wear Nike Pro Cool Women's tanks)
A moisture wicking, long sleeve, half zip top
A waterproof high viz zip jacket (I have an Altura Women's Night Vision Waterproof Jacket)
Cycling shorts
Comfy no seam leggings (over the top)
Warm socks
Gloves (I always take three pairs because I have Reynaud's Syndrome and if my hands get cold it's game over. Having three pairs means I have a pair for every condition and a spare if I get wet.
A light pair of Nike running gloves
A thick pair, the best I've ever had are Endura Womens Strike Waterproof Lined Gloves SS16.
A pair of silk liner gloves, these really work for me
Trainers with a hard base (I actually don't wear cleats when I'm touring)
In my bag I'll have waterproof trousers and a really warm jumper. If it rains get your waterproofs on and your gloves off ASAP, do not get wet and cold, it makes for a miserable ride
Essentials
Your bike (don't forget this key component!)
A helmet
A pump
A bike lock (for lunch breaks, toilet breaks etc)
Money and / or a debit card
A fully charged phone (ideally in a waterproof pocket)
Your plan and any train or ferry tickets
Water bottles (with water in them, if you want to add electrolytes and carbohydrates do but don't test new drinks out on the road)
Food (this is really important, I usually take some rolls with ham and cheese in them and some snacks like jelly babies and flapjacks - I could hardly face either of these things after the Etape but they work and bananas just get squished in your bag. Some people use gels but again don't try these for the first time on a trip, they can affect you in some quite unpleasant ways if you're not used to them - let's say no more)
SPF Lip balm (I had a horrible cycle with burnt lips, awful! Cold weather is equally bad)
Other
Camera (a must for me)
Binoculars (I love trying to spot wildlife from ferries or just on the road)
A flask of tea (this can be extremely welcome if it's cold)
Hand warmers (as I mentioned I have Reynaud's, if my hands get cold I need to be able to warm them up again)
Dry clothes (If you've got a train or car journey at the end of your cycle it's horrible to sit in sweaty or wet clothes)
