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.