Bikepacking is the beautiful blend of cycling and minimalist camping — and your gear needs to work just as hard as you do. Here’s the best equipment to keep your ride smooth, your camp cozy, and your bike light.

1. Frame, Seat & Handlebar Bags

Forget backpacks — your bike carries the load.

• Revelate Designs and Ortlieb lead the pack with waterproof, low-profile bags.
• Use frame bags for heavy gear, seat bags for soft stuff like clothing, and handlebar rolls for shelter or sleep systems.

2. Shelter & Sleep

• Ultralight tent or bivy (under 2 lbs is ideal)
• Compact sleeping bag or quilt + inflatable pad
• Look for gear that compresses tightly and packs small

3. Cooking Kit

• Tiny stoves like the BRS-3000T or Jetboil Stash
• Titanium pot, spork, and a mini fuel canister
• Cold soaking is an option for ultra-minimalists

4. Tools & Repair

• Multi-tool, spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, chain lube, zip ties
• Frame pump or CO2 inflator

5. Hydration

• Bottle cages under the frame + soft flasks or collapsible bladders
• Optional: hydration vest for quick access

Other Musts

• Headlamp (helmet-compatible)
• Power bank or dynamo hub for charging
• Bikepacking-specific GPS (e.g., Wahoo or Garmin Edge)

Efficiency and balance are everything in bikepacking — so every item should earn its spot. When in doubt: lighter, smaller, stronger.