Bike Trip Things to Carry: The Complete Packing List for Mountain Rides

Documents and money

• Papers. Driving licence, vehicle registration, insurance and pollution certificate, plus a photo ID. Keep photocopies and phone photos in a separate bag.
• Permits. Some routes need permits or entry paperwork. Confirm what applies to your route and dates before you ride.
• Cash. ATMs and cards are unreliable in remote places. Carry enough cash for fuel, food and repairs.

Riding gear you should not skip

• Helmet. A certified full-face or flip-up helmet that fits well. A visor you can clean quickly helps in dust and rain.
• Jacket and pants with armour. Look for protection at shoulders, elbows, back and knees, with a ventilation and warm-liner option.
• Gloves and boots. Waterproof gloves and boots with ankle protection. A second pair of liner gloves for cold mornings is worth the space.
• Rain gear. A waterproof jacket and pants or a rain suit. Mountain weather turns in minutes.

Tools, spares and bike items

• Puncture kit and pump. Tubes or a tubeless plug kit, tyre levers and a small compressor or pump.
• Cables and spares. Spare clutch and accelerator cables, bulbs, fuses and a few nuts and bolts.
• Tools and tape. A basic tool kit, cable ties, duct tape and chain lube.
• Fuel can. Fuel stations can be far apart on high routes. Know where the last pump is, and carry a spare can if your range is short.
• Luggage. Saddle bags or a rack bag, with waterproof liners and bungee cords. Pack heavy items low and close to the bike centre.

Clothes and warmth

Build layers rather than carrying one heavy coat. Thermal base layers, a fleece, a down or synthetic jacket, a neck gaiter and warm socks cover most days. Our 3-layer packing guide explains how to build this without overpacking.

Health, safety and electronics

• First aid. Plasters, antiseptic, pain relief, ORS and any personal medicine. Ask a doctor about altitude medicine before you go and read the AMS guide.
• Sun and skin. Sunscreen, lip balm and good sunglasses. UV is strong at altitude.
• Power and phone. A power bank, a phone mount, offline maps and a charger that works with your bike.
• Water and snacks. A water bottle and a few snacks for long stretches without food.

Packing rules that save a trip

• Keep it light. Every extra kilo changes how the bike handles on gravel and water crossings.
• Keep rain gear on top. You will want it quickly.
• Practise before you leave. Load the bike fully and take a short ride so you know what rattles or sags.