This is the packing list that I generally used, but I adjust it depending on my mood. The odd adage to lay out everything and take away half of it especially applies in the case of bicycle touring. In fact, taking about 75% of what you lay out is good.
Since we aren’t planning on cooking during this trip, there is no cooking equipment included in this list. Although we opted not to cook, we do know that it is an option to consider and have done it in the past. We have decided that we can survive on cold food when there is no hot food available. That is a personal preference and a way to save on weight.
The most important thing to consider when packing is to take what makes you feel comfortable. If you really like to carry a party tent and can physically do it, who’s to say that it shouldn’t be on the list?
The following is a list from a trip where laundry facilities where sparse. Use this as a guideline and adjust to your personal preferences. For the Portland to Portland trip, we will be taking fewer clothes as we plan to handwash daily and will have regular access to laundry facilities.
The superscript numbers refer to further notes on particular items.
The packing list
The superscript numbers correspond to an explanation of the
item below the list.
Clothes to pack
Clothes for the plane
Equipment
5 cycling shorts
pants
bicycle1
1 regular shorts
long sleeve shirt
front and rear racks
5 shirts
sweater/jacket
panniers/trailer
5 socks
socks
3 spare tubes2
underwear
underwear
1 folding tire
bathing suit
walking shoes
biking shoes3
rainsuit4
airpump5
sleeper
toe clips/clipless pedals6
3 water bottles or camelback
Toiletries
Miscellaneous
cycling gloves7
soap8
sunglasses9
helmet10
shampoo11
journal12
headlight
sunscreen13
pen
taillight
toothbrush
sewing kit
flashlight and batteries
deodorant14
large garbage bags15
small tent and ground cloth
comb/brush
pocket knife16
sleeping bag & stuff sack17
razor
towel for bath and beach
tool kit18
lip balm
address book
bungies/rack strap
baby powder19
reading material
mess kit19
tissue
glasses/contacts and supplies20
silverware
wet wipes21
medicinal remedies22
first aid kit23
toilet paper24
wash cloth
spokes
nail clippers
sun hat25
lock and cable*
insect repellant
freewheel/cassette tool26
Non-essential but nice
alarm clock
cyclocomputer27
seat cover
handlebar bag
camera and film
map pocket
binoculars
shower shoes
pillow
mirror
rack trunk
sandals
head/sweatband
fanny pack28
deck of cards
full gloves
moisturizer
sleeping mat
The following list corresponds to the superscript numbers on the packing
list.
1. Your bike should be tuned and in good condition.
2. Be sure the valves and size match your rims. Please bring
new tubes.
3. Rigid soles make pedaling more efficient and comfortable.
SPD's are best for walking( if you use clipless).
4. Should be waterproof and breathable. Pants aren't necessary
unless you like them. The temperature is warm in Mexico,
so the jacket is for cool days.
5. Be sure your pump matches the valves on your tubes.
6. Toe Clips or clipless pedals keep your feet properly aligned and
increase pedaling efficiency. SPD style is easier for
walking than the big cleats.
7. Cycling gloves insulate your hands from road shock and also prevent
abrasions if you should fall.
8. Liquid soap is less messy than bar soap, but the choice is yours.
9. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun, bugs and road debris.
Especially helpful for contact wearers.
10. ANSI or SNELL approved helmets to be worn at all times while riding.
11. Product without water listed as the first ingredient lasts longer.
12. Daily journal writing in a provided journal is required.
You may want your own personal journal as well.
13. Don't purchase this until further notice. We may have a
donation.
14. Should be non-aerosal.
15. Garbage bags line your panniers to keep your possessions dry.
16. Pack this in your checked luggage or it will be confiscated.
17. Should be lightweight or sheets and light blanket.
18. A tool kit containing a screwdriver, patch kit, quickstick and
wrench will be provided.
19. This or cornstarch absorbs moisture from your shorts.
19a. This consists of a bowl and cup, you may use any style. We won't
be cooking so the pans aren't needed.
20. Disposable contacts are best. Be sure to bring cleaners
and spares.
21. Moistened towelettes are excellent for cleaning before meals and
after repairs. Purell is also good. These are handy
when there is no shower.
22. Bring prescription drugs as well as your own supply of pain relievers,
antihistamines, ben-gay, vitamins, etc.
23. We will supply a simple first aid kit.
24. A luxury sometimes, take out the cardboard roll for easier packing.
25. The sun is intense and a hat is great protection when exploring
the ruins.
26. Be sure this tool is made for your bicycle!
27. This keeps track of speed, time and distance.
28. This is great for off the bike time when you need your valuables
on your person. A safety pouch is good, too.
* One lock and cable for every two bikes.
