Essential Things to Have with You on a Bike Ride

  • Helmet (approved type and properly fitted)
  • Water bottles and cages or Camelbak-type hydration system
  • Tire pump or CO2 cartridges
  • Detailed map of the area
  • Cycling (padded) gloves, padded bike shorts
  • Spare tubes, patch kit, and tire levers
  • Identification, emergency contact numbers and change for a phone call or a cell phone (do NOT use while riding)
  • Energy bars or similar energy replacement food
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen & lip screen
  • Money
  • Basic tools specific to your bike (if on a long or self-sufficient trip)
  • U-Lock (if you are stopping for long periods other than just a rest stop)
  • Lights & reflectors if you plan any night riding.
  • Compact first-aid kit for long trips.