Bikepacking: How to Get Started

What is Bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a minimalist form of bicycle touring that takes riders off paved roads and onto trails, gravel paths, and backcountry routes. Unlike traditional bicycle touring with heavy panniers, bikepacking utilizes lightweight, compact gear stored in specialized bags that attach directly to your bike frame, handlebars, and seat post.

This increasingly popular outdoor pursuit offers the perfect blend of adventure and accessibility. Whether you're planning a simple overnight trip close to home or dreaming of a multi-week expedition across challenging terrain, bikepacking provides an immersive way to experience landscapes that would be impossible to reach by car and too time-consuming to explore on foot.

Essential Bikepacking Gear

The Right Bike

While you can technically bikepack on almost any bicycle, certain styles are better suited for the demands of off-road travel:

• Gravel bikes: Versatile option with drop handlebars, offering speed on smooth surfaces while handling light off-road sections
• Hardtail mountain bikes: Excellent for rougher terrain with front suspension to absorb impacts
• Rigid mountain bikes: Simpler, lighter option without suspension for bikepacking on moderate terrain
• Plus or fat tire bikes: Ideal for extremely rough terrain or soft surfaces like sand and snow

The perfect bikepacking bike balances durability, comfort, and efficiency based on your planned terrain. For 2025, standout models include the Salsa Fargo with its versatile Chromoly steel frame and the Tout Terrain Outback Xplore II, featuring the innovative Pinion Gearbox system.

Bikepacking Bags

A proper bag setup is crucial for distributing weight effectively across your bike:

• Frame bags: Fit within the main triangle of your bike frame; ideal for heavier items like tools, water, and food
• Handlebar bags: Mount to the front of your bike; perfect for lightweight but bulky items like sleeping bags and clothing
• Seat packs: Attach under your saddle; good for clothing and camping equipment you don't need during the day
• Top tube bags: Small bags that sit on the top tube for quick-access items like snacks, phone, or maps
• Fork bags: Additional storage mounted to your front fork for water bottles or extra gear

Quality brands include Revelate Designs, Ortlieb, and Apidura, though many affordable options are now available as bikepacking grows in popularity.

Sleep System

Your sleep system needs to be lightweight, compact, and appropriate for the expected conditions:

• Shelter: Ultralight tents, tarps, bivvy sacks, or hammocks (depending on terrain and personal preference)
• Sleeping bag or quilt: Down provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio but loses insulation when wet; synthetic options are more water-resistant
• Sleeping pad: Insulates you from the ground and provides comfort; inflatable pads pack smaller than foam options

A quality sleep system doesn't need to break the bank. The Sea to Summit UltraLight Self-Inflating Sleeping Mat paired with a 30-degree sleeping bag makes an excellent starter setup for most three-season adventures.

Cooking Gear

Keep your cooking setup minimal but functional:

• Stove: Small canister stoves are convenient for beginners; alcohol stoves are ultralight but slower
• Pot: A single titanium pot around 750ml is sufficient for most solo meals
• Utensils: A simple spork and perhaps a small knife
• Water filtration: A reliable water filter or purification method is essential when traveling in remote areas

Clothing

Pack versatile clothing that works in layers:

• Cycling shorts/bibs: For comfort during long days of riding
• Moisture-wicking base layers: To regulate temperature and manage sweat
• Insulating mid layer: Such as a lightweight down or synthetic jacket
• Waterproof/windproof shell: To protect against the elements
• Off-bike clothing: Comfortable items for camp
• Cycling shoes: Compatible with your pedal system but comfortable enough to walk in

Tools and Spares

Being self-sufficient requires carrying repair essentials:

• Multi-tool with chain breaker
• Tire levers and patch kit
• Spare tube(s)
• Portable pump
• Tubeless repair kit (if running tubeless tires)
• Spare derailleur hanger
• Chain links
• Zip ties and duct tape for emergency repairs

Planning Your First Bikepacking Trip

Start Small

For your first bikepacking adventure, consider an "S24O" (Sub-24 Hour Overnight) trip within 25-30 miles of home. This allows you to test your gear setup and comfort level without committing to a more challenging route.

Route Selection

When choosing your first bikepacking route, consider:

• Terrain: Opt for easier terrain with gradual elevation changes
• Distance: Be realistic about your fitness level and experience
• Water availability: Ensure reliable access to water sources
• Camping options: Research legal camping areas along your route
• Bailout points: Know where you can exit the route if needed
• Cell service: Understand where you might lose connectivity

Established Beginner Routes

Several established routes are perfect for bikepacking beginners:

1. The GAP and C&O Canal Towpath (Pittsburgh to Washington DC): 335 miles of relatively flat, non-technical riding on converted rail trails and canal towpaths with frequent towns for resupply
2. Blues to Bears Ears (Utah): A shorter route through stunning Utah landscapes, perfect for beginners who are reasonably fit
3. King Alfred's Way (UK): A 224-mile circular route in southern England with easy access points and varied terrain
4. Local Overnighter Projects: Many regions have documented one-night routes specifically designed by locals for beginners. Check Bikepacking.com's Local Overnighters Project for options near you.

Packing Tips

• Do a test pack: Load your bike and take a short day ride to check for any issues
• Distribute weight properly: Keep heavy items low and centered in your frame bag
• Pack strategically: Items you'll need during the day should be easily accessible
• Bring only essentials: Every ounce matters, especially on climbs
• Use compression sacks: To minimize the volume of soft items like clothing and sleeping bags

2025 Bikepacking Trends

The bikepacking scene continues to evolve with several exciting trends for 2025:

1. In-frame storage solutions: Bikes like the Santa Cruz Stigmata now feature integrated storage compartments within the frame itself
2. Flexible frame technology: Innovations in frame manipulation, including flex stays, are improving ride comfort on rough terrain
3. Electronic components: More bikepackers are embracing electronic shifting systems like SRAM's Transmission series for reliable performance
4. Sustainability focus: Growing emphasis on sustainable practices, including leave-no-trace camping and environmentally conscious gear production
5. Ultralight bikepacking: The movement toward minimalist setups continues to gain momentum, with innovative gear allowing for lighter overall loads

Common Beginner Mistakes

Avoid these common pitfalls on your first few trips:

• Overpacking: Being selective about what you bring makes for a more enjoyable ride
• Inadequate water planning: Always carry more water than you think you'll need
• Poor weight distribution: Improperly loaded bikes handle poorly and cause fatigue
• Insufficient research: Understanding your route's challenges helps prevent surprises
• Overlooking comfort: Small luxuries like a proper sleeping pad can make a huge difference

Community and Resources

Joining the bikepacking community can enhance your experience:

• Online forums: Sites like Reddit's r/bikepacking
• Local cycling clubs: Many organize beginner-friendly overnight trips
• Social media groups: Connect with experienced bikepackers for advice
• Bikepacking events: Participate in organized events to meet fellow enthusiasts

Final Thoughts

Bikepacking offers an accessible entry point into adventure cycling that combines the joy of bike touring with the freedom of backcountry camping. By starting with appropriate gear and manageable routes, you'll build confidence and skills that can lead to more ambitious journeys.

The real beauty of bikepacking lies in its simplicity—all you truly need is a reliable bike, basic camping equipment, and a sense of adventure. As the old saying goes: the best bikepacking setup is the one that gets you out there.

Ready to start your bikepacking journey? Browse our collection of bikepacking-ready bikes and gear to find the perfect setup for your adventures.