TRAVELLING WITH YOUR BIKE: WHAT TO PACK

Whether you’re racing, or relaxing – or both – traveling with your bike always goes best when you are well organised

Extra wheels
Your deep-rimmed Vision Metron 81s might be your pride and joy but it’s always worth taking an extra set of wheels. When it comes to racing, you have the added security of a replacement if the worst happens and your race rims are damaged.
If you’re attending a training camp, having a climbing wheel like the Metron 40 or a second pair of training wheels such as the Trimax 35 will give you wheel choice whatever topography you’re confronted with. Either way, protect them with the Vision Wheels Bag.

A spare or alternative set of wheels is always high on our list to pack – but make sure you look after them. The Vision Wheels Bag is tough, light and durable to protect your wheels, skewers and other accessories

Bike wardrobe
Take clothing suitable for the potential climatic scenarios you’ll face abroad – this is especially important if your destination features significant climbs. At base camp you might be drenched in sun and 30°C-plus temperatures. Come the mountain’s peak, it could be single figures and raining. So at the minimum, waterproof jacket that scrunches up into your rear pocket is a must. Arm and leg warmers are also recommended, and you can’t go wrong with a base layer.

Spares
Some areas of the world are cycling havens with shops stacked with inner tubes, cleats and brakes pads on tap. Others are newly discovered and consist of a road… and that’s about it. So make sure you take a minimum of three inner tubes, a pump and/or gas canisters, puncture repair kit and a comprehensive tool kit including Allen keys, Torx drivers (if your bike has Torx bolts), pedal spanner and spoke key. A wet-weather tyre’s also a recommended option if there’s a good chance of rain.

Small bike lock
This is more one for training camps but it’s not a bad idea to keep one tucked away in a saddlebag for mid-training café stops.

Medical supplies
Include the essentials, namely: painkillers, personal medication, plasters, wet wipes, first-aid kit, antihistamines – and, always top of the list, chamois cream!

Performance eyewear
This is an easy item to forget, yet it’s one that can provide the most comfort. There are some great pairs on the market but glasses with photochromatic or interchangeable lenses are a good choice. Both offer optimum vision no matter what the light conditions. If you have a second pair, pack them as back-up.

Water bottles and nutrition
Inevitably your rides will reach decent distances so it’s vital you remember the fuel and fuel carriers. We’d probably go with 750ml water bottles so you’re adequately prepared in case you go off-piste and accidentally add kilometers to your intended route.
Also bring the sports nutrition you’re familiar with back at home, whether that’s gels, bars or powder. That said, if you do some digging before you set off and find the product you’re used to is available at your destination, buy it there to save travelling weight.

Sun cream
A reputable suncream that’s UVA and UVB resistant, comes in at factor 30 or above and is water-resistant to your sweating torso is the ideal here.

Portable coffee maker
There are plenty of lightweight coffee makers on the market designed for travelling and means you can take your favorite choice of coffee. They’re cheap, too, starting from around €20, and will start your day right wherever you and your bike travel!