Illustration by Sam Scipio and list by Sarah Swallow for WTF Bikexplorers, 2020
Food and Water
Capacity to carry up to 3-8 liters water (depending on location)
Capacity to carry up to 2 days of food. (2 nights, 2 mornings, 2 lunches, and snacks)
Water Bladders/Bottles
Sleep System
Shelter - rain fly, bug net, ground sheet, or full tent system (depending on location) Check the 10-day weather forecast before you make this decision.
Sleeping bag or quilt (rated for cooler temperatures at night)
Sleeping pad and pillow
Cooking Kit
Stove
Propane canister
Kettle/plate
Mug
Spork
Knife
Lighter
Seasoning
Clothing
Ride clothes (shirt, shorts, light socks, helmet)
Sleep clothes (pants, undies, heavy socks, and warm hat)
Down jacket
Rain jacket
Ride shoes
Camp/hike sandals
Hat
Bandana / mask
Gloves
Electronics
Phone
GPS Device and/or phone mounted onto your handlebars
Headlamp/tail light
Camera
Spare battery pack (10,000 - 15,000 milliamps)
Outlet wall charger
Charging Cables (Micro USB and Phone chargers)
Headphones
Spares: SD cards, camera batteries, etc.
Tool Kit
Water filter (one filter for every 2-3 people)
Pump
Multitool
Leatherman pliers
Chain lube
Rag
Patch Kit (Patches, Tire lever, Dyno plugs, Spare tube, and Tire boots)
2 oz of sealant
Presta valve adapter
Chain link
Needle and thread
Tape
Zip Ties
A few extra bolts (4mm, 5mm, and 6mm)
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Soap
Baby wipes/toilet paper
Waste Bag
Hand sanitizer
Bug spray
Sunscreen
First Aid Kit
Bandages
Gauze
Tape
Ibuprofen
Anti-histamine
Extras
Binoculars
Notebook
Book
Group Game
Writing utensil