Up to this point, you may have been using your bike for short rides, daily bike trail rides, or even events. These events tend to lead you to the option of doing a long-distance bike trail ride. Most of these are overnight and tend to last several days.
If this is the kind of bike trail trip you are looking for, then you are going to need the right accessories. Here are a few to consider.
Bike Pack
One of the most important items for you to have on a long-distance biking trip is a bike pack. This is usually a small pack that holds your basics including a small camping set.
You may think that will be very heavy, but you can find packs that can mount to your bike or be carried on your back without adding too much weight. You ideally are looking for one that is weatherproof, waterproof, and can hold your gear easily.
Water Bladder
Sometimes a simple water bottle is not enough. This is especially true on long distance bike trail riding. You should have a water bladder that is easy to refill, easy to use water purification in, and has a water filter. This will allow you to use it with fresh water resources on the trail and keep you hydrated without having to refill your bottle often. It also frees up the bottle space for a small pack that can hold other items like a first aid kit.
Lightweight Towel and Clothes
Make sure that, at the very least, you are packing a lightweight change of clothing and towel. These should be items that can dry quickly and fold up to take up very little space. You can usually find these in kits or beginner supply options. You can keep these on your back or you can attach them to a camping set if you have one with you. If you want, also include some lightweight trail clothing that is not part of the riding. This will be more comfortable for you when you are done riding.
These accessories are all geared for multiple weather conditions, all forms of terrain, and will give you options that are easy to switch out if your environment changes. The most important accessory for long distance bike trail riding is your mind. Make sure that you know your environment, the trail, and have what you need to make the ride and the stay easy.
