Bikepacking

What is Bikepacking?

Originally from the United States and now sweeping across Europe, Bikepacking is a simple way of travelling with minimal luggage and, above all, without a luggage rack. Pure minimalism for setting off to explore nature.

In this spirit, equipment brands have developed ranges of bags to attach to the handlebars, the frame or the seatpost for travelling over one or several days.

The first advantage of this practice is being able to use these bags on all types of bikes such as a hardtail mountain bike, a full-suspension mountain bike, a road bike, a Gravel bike or a Fatbike, in aluminium or carbon. And again, no luggage rack required.

The second advantage is better load distribution along the full length of the bike. Stability is therefore increased, allowing you to ride longer with greater enjoyment. With Bikepacking, you can ride self-sufficiently, more freely and more lightly.

The different types of bags

The basic principle of Bikepacking is to make maximum use of the bike's various tubes while interfering as little as possible with stability, manoeuvrability and weight. Each range therefore generally consists of models for the handlebars, the top tube, the front triangle and the seatpost, with variations in different volumes depending on your needs, the type of bike and its geometry.

Bags to fit on the seatpost

A minimalist bag with a large volume, it attaches directly to the post and rails with Velcro straps or buckles. The internal pocket is surrounded by compression straps for quick and easy access to evening essentials such as your sleeping bag or clothing. We recommend using a bag with a high attachment point for dropper seatposts to maintain post drop and protect the plunger. Make sure the bag does not touch the tyre when compressed on a full-suspension mountain bike.

Bags to fit on the frame

On the top tube

These small bags are very practical for keeping your small belongings close to hand so you can view and navigate with your phone's GPS or simply slip in your keys or wallet. They feature Velcro-type straps or simple buckles to fit onto the tube and stem.

On the top tube

This type of bag attaches under the top tube with a fairly generous volume of around 3–4 litres; you can slip in clothing or other everyday items such as tools for quick access to the contents.

On the full frame triangle

This bag, with a volume of over 4 litres, takes up the full space of the front triangle by attaching to all 3 tubes. Highly stable, it ensures an ideal position for weight distribution and the centre of gravity, making it an ideal choice for carrying heavier items such as tools or bike accessories. It should be noted, however, that this type of bag generally makes bottle cage mounts inaccessible. We recommend checking frame compatibility by measuring the length and diameter.

Bags to fit on the handlebars

Often large in volume, they allow the transport of bulky equipment such as a tent, sleeping bag or stove. They feature offset mounts to prevent cable housing from being crushed, and straps surround the internal pocket for simple and quick access. Various sizes are available — check your handlebar length before ordering a bag.

Choosing the right lighting

Are you more of a Lux, Lumen or Candela person? Beyond a simple safety system, it is worth knowing all the characteristics of lights to select the products best suited to your bikepacking style. To find out everything about lighting and choose the right product, discover our advice.

Planning your bike route

Planning your next trip is already a first step towards adventure. For a few days out or a long bike tour, the GPS is one of the essential tools for knowing where to go. Start planning your next bikepacking adventure now. Follow the guide!

Are you new to bike touring?

Bikepacking appeals to you, but you don't know how to get started or what type of equipment to take?

Here is our advice:
It is important to know your level before heading off on an adventure. A beginner can very well set off for several days by choosing simple, short routes and keeping the elevation gain to a minimum.

To start out, you could begin with a 2 to 3 day trip, on a Gravel bike for example, covering a route that is 50% tracks and 50% road, with around 50 kilometres per day and a maximum elevation gain of 900 m. This will allow you to enjoy yourself and get a taste for adventure.

Equipment for 2 / 3 days of cycling

• A lightweight tent
• An ultralight inflatable sleeping mat
• A lightweight sleeping bag and sleeping bag liner if temperatures are low
• A lightweight stove and cutlery
• Freeze-dried or dry food
• Toiletries and a first aid kit
• Lightweight evening clothes (technical fabrics that dry quickly)
• A lightweight Gore-Tex-style jacket
• Good lighting
• A GPS or a map
• A solar charger or power bank
• Repair tools for your bike
• Water, lots of water!