Common Bikepacking Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid

Bikepacking combines the joy of cycling with the adventure of backpacking. This involves carrying all your essential gear directly on your bike frame as you start your multi-day trips. However, beginner bikepackers make common mistakes that can be easily avoided. Mistakes like overpacking, choosing an unrealistic route, and not being prepared for bad weather can quickly turn a peaceful journey into an exhausting and frustrating experience.

This blog explains the common mistakes that beginners should avoid while bikepacking. So they can enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable trip.

1.   Overpacking

The most common mistake every beginner makes is overpacking. Most of the new riders fill their bags with extra clothes, gadgets, and other unnecessary items because they are overly worried about being unprepared. But carrying unnecessary weight reduces comfort, can make bike handling difficult and means you will be working harder than needed on each pedal stroke.

To avoid this mistake, you should pack the basic things and select lightweight, multi-purpose gear. You can select clothes that can be layered, dried, and used in every weather condition. This way, you can reduce bulk and avoid carrying non-essential items. Review your bikepacking setup before the ride to remove anything extra that adds weight.

2.   Choosing An Unrealistic Route

Beginners frequently think bikepacking is the same as regular rides. But the journey with bikepacks, steep climbs, rough trails, navigation challenges, and frequent stops will slow you down. Selecting an unrealistic route can lead to exhaustion, missed campsites, and needless stress. Take 20% off your normal cycling distance as a starting point if you are loaded up with gear. 

You can consider factors like elevation gain, terrain type, and resupply opportunities when planning your trip to avoid this mistake. A Mistake we have made multiple times on multi-day trips is to plan a route that starts too hard, meaning by day 3, we are exhausted. Try to plan an easy day on the first and third days. Less demanding routes that help you understand your capabilities and build confidence. Moreover, leaving extra time for unexpected delays and sightseeing can result in a more rewarding bikepacking experience.

3.   Wearing Unsuitable Clothes

Wearing unsuitable clothing is a major mistake that can make bikepacking uncomfortable. Wearing jeans and basic cotton t-shirts, are not suitable.

It is advisable to choose moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool layers, as they actively regulate temperature, dry quickly, and prevent odour. One should avoid cotton, bulky gear, and casual streetwear.

Make sure you check how quickly an item dries once washed, as all too often that favourite cycling top you wear on a Saturday ride, and a normal wash in the washing machine/dryer, can take a very long time to dry out in the forest. You need fast-drying clothes when bikepacking.

4.   Not Ready for a Breakdown

Another mistake that most beginners make is not being cautious with their repair kit and spare parts. Any mechanical issue in a remote area without the proper tools, spares and mechanical knowledge can quickly ruin a trip. Beginners might end up miles away from society.

To avoid this mistake, you have to carry a comprehensive set of repair tools. It is also important to learn essential trailside skills. But remember to make them as light as possible. No Hammers! Small multi tools, spare chain links, spare innertubes, tyre levers, a puncture repair kit and of course a pump that actually works.

5.   Going Hungry

Starting a journey without eating or drinking enough is a common mistake. Riding long distances with a loaded bike can burn a lot of calories, which turns your metabolism into a calorie-burning machine that runs exceptionally fast. Failing to manage your intake can cause extreme fatigue and low morale.

This mistake can be avoided by eating early and often, by snacking every few minutes. Always carry calorie-dense foods such as energy bars, bananas, cake, biscuits, and dried nuts and fruits. Sugar is okay when you are riding, as your body will use it up right away.  in an easily accessible bag.

If you are in remote areas, when you see a shopping or food opportunity, take it; all too often, you pass that shop by, and there is not another one for a long time. Keep stocked up on food.

6.   Face Bad Weather Without Being Prepared

The weather changes every hour, particularly in the mountains, and you may face several weather conditions in one day. If you are unprepared for sudden changes in weather, they can turn your bikepacking trip into a tough journey. Many beginners do not carry rain gear to save space, assuming that they can avoid bad weather. But unpredictable storms, high winds, and dropping temperatures can strike at any time.

To avoid problems, always carry a waterproof jacket, a warm layer, and dry spare socks. You can also use bikepacking bags or dry bags to keep your sleeping gear, electronics and spare clothes secure. Keep your rain jacket and warm layer on top of your bag for easy access when the weather changes.

7.   Not Having a Water Strategy

Failing to plan your hydration can increase the risk of severe dehydration and leave you stranded. Not having a water strategy can lead to miscalculating distances between refills and being unprepared when sources are dry. 

To avoid running out of water, you have to research your routes' resupply points. For remote stretches, carry with you 3 to 4 litres to maintain hydration. Moreover, always carry a primary portable water filter and chemical tablets.

8.   Not Testing Your Gear Before the Trip

Starting your bikepacking journey without testing your equipment can cause major problems. These issues can include poorly fitted bags, loose straps, or not enough space. When you are at home, the mistake will look minor, but it becomes a major one when you are far away from town.

This mistake can be avoided simply by setting up your gear and taking it for a test ride before your departure day. Testing helps you identify weaknesses in your setup and ensure your bag is securely attached. It also confirms that your sleeping system is suitable for the expected weather conditions.

We get a lot of customers rushing to buy a new bikepacking bag for a tip within a few days, they have little or no time to check it works, and fits their needs properly.

Conclusion

Starting your first bikepacking trip is exciting and adventurous. However, common pitfalls can quickly make beginners’ experience harder than necessary. Avoiding these mistakes makes a better bikepacking experience for beginners.

The perfect way to enjoy backpacking as a beginner is to plan carefully and learn from every ride. Pack only the essential items, test your equipment in advance and choose a realistic route. With the right preparation, bikepacking is a fun way to explore the outdoors on a bike. Start small, build up, and enjoy the ride.