Fall 2021 Bike trip – packing gear

I want to go over the packing for my upcoming trip. In June of 2020, Both my daughter and I used Arkel Dolphin panniers. They are great! We have both used them for multiple trips. They are easy to pack, secure well to the frame, are waterproof, have more than a single compartment and are a good value for the money. I’d definitely use these if I were bringing my laptop.

This trip, however, I’m going to use a bikepacking setup that includes a combination of bags that attach directly to my bike without a frame.  I don’t want to take more than I need. 

The photo below shows my current setup.  I may skip the frame pack, strap the tent poles to my handlebar bag and bring a slightly larger seat pack.

In the past, I’d take a roomier three person tent.  By taking a one person tent, I think this will let me roll up the sleeping bag, pad and tent together.  Rain could be a problem, which is why I’ll bring stuff sacks to separate the wet tent from the sleeping bag if needed. Need to keep dry. The benefit of this approach is that I’ll spend less time packing and unpacking.