Knowing what to pack for a race is important, especially when you’re new to the sport. There are some basics and there are “luxury” items and at some point you’ll have to draw a line between what you choose to pack with you and what you won’t. But, just in case you need a list to review as you’re making these choices, here’s one for you…
What we consider the basics
- Your bike – is everything working? Have you checked the brakes, the shifting, the tire pressure?
- Kit layed out and ready? Is it clean?
- Helmet
- Sunglasses
- Socks and shoes
- Gloves
- Money, credit card, Government issued ID
- Tire repair; the most common issue. Do you have what you need to fix a flat? You might need…
- Tubes
- Patch kit
- Pump
- CO2 Cartridge and a way to connect the CO2 to your tire
- Tire levers
- Tubeless
- Tire plug, spare sealant
- Tire boot, if you have a big cut in the tire
- Tubes
- Multi-tool for tightening loose bolts, screws, etc. or making adjustments
- Water bottles or backpack hydration system, with water in it
- Bike computer or GPS
- Lights
Luxury or over the top prepared?
There’s a fine line between the luxury and “over the top” things as well, but here are few items we’ve heard of people packing:
- Roll of duct tape
- Medications
- Toilet paper
- Chain lube
- Extra jacket, arm warmers, booties for shoes, shoe laces
- Extra food; I include that here since our races have aid stations.
- Hat
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Heart rate monitor
- Power meter
- Spare spokes
- Extra derailleur or brake cables
What did we forget?
Help us all out with this list and put your favorite things in the comments!