Recommended by an experienced bicycle tourist
-
I've had one of these camera cases for years and I thoroughly recommend them. My mini tripod legs fits in to where the SD card goes so it's easy to stow it. I use the strap mainly but there is a belt loop too if you prefer. It's easy to open when riding too. Very good quality and a good price. -
Due to the frequent daily dog attacks we get in the Caucasus I carry an equestrian whip to ward off chasing dogs. This one is 110cm or 3'6" with short lash, so snarling dogs can be engaged and kept at the safe distance away whilst you pedal like hell! Just make sure you fix your whip in a place where you can draw it out quickly and you'll feel much safer! -
A handy knife, fork and spoon set complete with can opener. There are lighter ones available but if you like more robust cutlery then this one's for you – it's still light since it's made for camping. I've had a set like this for years and swear by it. -
Sale!
I've always used a mess tin for camping and this one is an age old design. I have an old army surplus mess tin from WW2 but these new ones will do the job. Main benefits are you can cook and eat from them and stow items inside them such as cutlery and a burner when carrying. A tried and tested design – just get one! -
These are great for stowing essential items such as puncture repair kits, tools, emergency rations etc. since it's easy to access once you've dismounted you bike. I have various sizes – small for short journeys up to large for touring. They are fixed by straps so easy to fit to most saddles. Fits my Brooks B17 without issue. -
A simple but effective idea which you miss if you haven't got one. Nice and bright too which helps when cycling in the rain. I stow mine in my CamelBak backpack and bring it out when the rain comes. An inexpensive item to keep the rain off your head. -
A First Aid Kit is an essential item for dealing with anything from grazes, bites, cuts etc you may encounter when on cycle tour. It needs to be compact and lightweight so a hiking style one is ideal. This one has most things you may need for typical needs on tour. Don't risk not taking one! -
Sale!
I always use a CatEye Velo cycling computer when on tour or for everyday use. There are may more sophisticated trip trackers out there including iPhone and Android apps but you can't beat a simple cycling computer to deliver the headline ride stats quickly. The only time I've had any trouble from one is once during torrential rain when the rain penetrated the contacts. All together thoroughly recommended and pretty cheap too! -
Another classic camping equipment item. These are particularly useful since you can't carry gas on aeroplanes so you'll be ready to cook even if you can't find a cylinder for your gas stove. They perform well too so you can get a cup of tea quite quickly! -
Silk inner gloves are a good tip for keeping your hands warm with minimal bulk and weight. I've used silk inner gloves since my early motorcycling days where I'd always keep a pair in my leather jacket. On cycle tours I've used them under my mits when it was cold. A really versatile accessory you should take with you. -
I never cycle without a pair of mitts on and a gel pair will give you that extra comfort to avoid numbness in your hands. A pair of silk inner gloves are useful too if it gets a bit colder and a full set of cycling gloves for cold and rain. That's your hands sorted! You really do want comfortable hands on tour so go for these! -
Another simple accessory which can help make your touring life easier. This cargo nets work well with my Topeak Super Tourist back rack and you can stuff a surprising amount of kit under them. Stowing kit under them is easy and stays put. I recommend one for your cycling tour. -
Power Banks are an essential item these days if you use your iPhone or Android phones for leisure. I use my iPhone for navigation, route mapping, photography, videos, social media etc so it’s on most of the day running down the battery. This smaller 5,000mAh Power Bank should enable you to charge your phone a couple of time with a full charge over night. If you don't want to carry a larger Solar Power Bank or you are not that power hungry with your tech then a few smaller ones might be the solution for you. I picked the red one for visibility purposes when you drop it! -
I've realised that when cycle touring the only reason I take a plug adaptor is to charge my tech using USB. This tends to be my Apple charger with single USB port so you have to be on the ball when charging and queue for charging. A USB Plug Travel Adaptor with 4 Ports is a good buy since you can forget about your plug adaptor and USB plug and just take this one. Not only is it compatible with EU and US plugs it also has a UK adaptor so you can use it all the the time not just on tour. -
I like to have a variety of positions for my hands for comfort when bicycle touring. I bought these butterfly handlebars and have toured with them ever since. I do tend to have preferred position but it's relief to be able to change it from time to time. Recommended for comfortable arms while cycling. -
Sale!
These tripods are an absolute must for getting group photos. It can grip to branches, posts, rocks etc. Really lightweight and portable. Stick your camera on timer and get shooting! -
Sale!
I bought one of these to protect myself from dogs and bad drivers. Having tested it in Georgia and Azerbaijan I can safely say it works for both. Many savage dogs were stunned by its loudness and many wayward cars got to know I was there. Really loud! Get one! -
The Topeak Hexus II Bike Multitool is a really useful tool to keep in your saddle bag. It's got a whole load of different tools and great for tightening up loose bolts, fix your chain, reassemble your pedals etc. I use it right from the break down and boxing of my bike to the disassembly and reboxing and everything in between. I highly recommend taking one as I have used it on every tour. -
A head torch is a really useful item to take night hiking or on cycle tour. I first bought one for my 100km 24 hour walks, so I know they are good in the dark and don't eat up batteries too quickly. They are useful for hands free stuff like riding in the dark, setting up camp, collecting fire wood, navigating etc. They usually have three settings for brightness so you can adjust to conditions and manage your battery life accordingly. You can use it like a normal torch too so you can save weight by bringing only this and your front light. Worth every penny! -
I was recommended these bicycle tires as an alternative to Schwalbe Marathon for touring. I was looking for a tough tire for multiple terrains and a bit of puncture resistance. I have now used the same set for three tours now and have not had a puncture. They can take some pounding on broken roads and trails performing exceptionally well with no issues. These tires are a great investment and I thoroughly recommend them. RiBMo means "Ride your Bike More"! -
Sale!
These are a great addition to your bicycle touring kit list. Cycling shoes are notoriously non-waterproof, so apart from spraying with Scotchguard, what can you do? A pair of overshoes will keep the rain off and keep your feet warm too. They never can be 100% watertight since the cleat and heel positions are open. However if you silicone up any holes in your shoes in these places they'll do just fine. -
Sale!
In conjunction with your cycling overshoes and cycling shoes, a pair of waterproof socks are a good investment. If your expecting rain then stick them on to ensure your feet don't get wet. Wet feet are not pleasant at all on cycle tour so keep your feet nice and dry with these socks. -
Sale!
I hate getting my hands cold on tour and you'd be surprised how cold it can get sometimes. Your hands are right out in front and I usually wear cycling mits with exposed fingers. I have silk inner gloves which can be used with the mits but if you want real comfort get a pair of these. They are fully waterproof and hi viz. Well worth carrying in your saddle bag in my opinion. -
A Power Bank is an essential item these days to keep your iPhone or Android charged. I use my iPhone for navigation, route mapping, photography, videos, social media etc so it's on all the time draining the battery. A big Power Bank should keep you in power all day with a full charge over night. I don't normally go for gimmicks but this one has a torch which is useful and solar charging. Solar charging is usually a bit disappointing at the moment but a trickle charge when you are riding or walking helps top it up. If you end up in an emergency situation the solar might just help!