If you love the idea of traveling off the beaten path by bicycle, bikepacking is for you. It's such a fun way to explore the outdoors via dirt roads, gravel, and even trails, and then sleep in a tent at night after a full, satisfying day on the bike. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a multi-day excursion, your first bikepacking trip requires some thoughtful preparation, from figuring out how to haul all your gear to which bike, such as a hybrid comfort bike, might be best for your particular trip.

1. Choose the Bike to Match the Journey

Start with whatever bike you have. It could be an old, rigid mountain bike, a hardtail MTB, or a comfortable gravel bike. If you don't have a bike, look at clearance bikes online for a great deal on a brand-new bike. You can find high-quality bikes for way less than retail if you go the factory-direct route for your purchase.

Your bike will be your most important piece of gear, so selecting the right one is key. A hybrid comfort bike is a great choice, offering a smooth ride on paved paths as well as light gravel and dirt surfaces. For more rugged terrain, a gravel or mountain bike may be a better fit. Whatever you choose, make sure it's comfortable for long distances and can handle your gear.

2. Plan Your Route and Do a Trial Run

When mapping out your bikepacking route, consider doing an overnighter first to test out your gear setup. If you have somewhere close to home you want to ride, that's even better. If you're a beginner, it's also smart to go with a group or someone who has more experience with bikepacking so they can help you out.

That first overnighter will give you confidence in your fitness, traveling with gear, making adjustments, and setting up camp for the night. You don't have to be in superior biking shape to do bikepacking. If you are a backpacker or in relatively good shape, anyone can do it. Bikepacking isn't about speed or seeing how many miles you can fit in per day.

3. Pack Smart and Light

If you already have camping gear, you can use it for bikepacking trips, such as a sleeping bag, pad, and tent. If you are traveling with other people, it might help to split the gear up and save space so you aren't bringing duplicates. You'll also need a method of hauling your gear with the weight distributed evenly on the front and back of your bike. It helps to have a pack system and frame bags, but if you don't have specific gear, don't worry. You can get creative with straps and wear a backpack if necessary.

Before heading into parts unknown, make sure your bike is running smoothly and check the gears, brakes, and tires. Bring along spare tubes, a multi-tool, an air pump, and a repair kit. It's easy to go down the gear rabbit hole, but stick to the must-haves and basics.

About Mendham Bicycle Co.

Find the perfect bicycle clearance deal for your budget from Mendham Bicycle Co., a factory-direct brand with deeply discounted bikes from top bike manufacturers. Right now, take advantage of Mendham Bicycle Co.'s pre-season sale for the best selection and to get unbeatable prices on high-quality hybrid, road, gravel, and electric bikes online. Choose the best bike for your needs and get it just in time for the spring riding season. Why pay retail prices when you can browse the exceptional bicycle clearance options at Mendham Bicycle Co.? Whether you're looking for a stylish beach cruiser for leisurely weekends or a hybrid commuter bike for work, you can find the lowest possible prices with the Mendham Bicycle Co. Best Price Guarantee. Gear up yourself or your entire family with brand-new, affordable bikes.

Find the perfect bike for bikepacking adventures from Mendham Bicycle Co. at https://mendhambikes.com/

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