Pack for the Ride

These are suggestions; feel free to bring what you feel is necessary, within the one-bag, 65-pound limit.

Printable packing checklist (pdf)

Weather on the Ride

September weather in the Pacific Northwest is usually beautiful with average daily highs in the 70s and 80s and nightly lows from 30-45 degrees Fahrenheit. Bear in mind, however, that daytime temperatures could reach the upper 90s and plunge at night to the mid-20s. Be prepared for inclement weather — bring warm clothing and rain gear.

For the Bike

A helmet is required, and we recommend the use of a rearview mirror. You also must bring two 20-oz. water bottles, minimum (or an equivalent hydration pack). Bring some simple tools with you such as tubes, tire levers, patch kit, pump and rag.

Toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste, skin lotion, sunscreen, lip balm, chamois butter, soap, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, towels, washcloth, pain-killers such as aspirin or ibuprofen, antacids, band-aids, calamine lotion and insect repellant.

Clothing

Cycling jerseys, shorts and tights, camp shorts, long pants, extra socks, short- and long-sleeve shirts, walking shoes, hat and gloves, swimwear, rain gear (water-repellant breathable fabric is best), warm jacket. Cotton is not recommended for cycling attire. Synthetics that “breathe” provide the greatest comfort and cooling or warmth. At night, you will appreciate a fleece pullover and long pants.

Camping

Tent, rain fly, ground cloth, sleeping bag, pad, pillow, clothesline and clothespins, flashlight, extra bulbs and batteries. Veterans suggest bringing something to identify your tent from the other tents around you.

Gear Bag

The gear bag that you bring to store your belongings should be waterproof and made of a sturdy material so that it holds up through the week. You can only bring one bag, and it cannot exceed 65 pounds. Remember that if there are no porters you will have to move your own bag, and sometimes the porters are not the varsity football team, so please be considerate of them when you are packing. Lashing bags together often causes problems because they become separated and are difficult to locate. Items that will not fit into the one bag, such as lawn chairs or golf bags, will not be transported.

To ensure clothing stays dry, many tour veterans suggest that you store clothes in large plastic bags, press them flat to remove excess air, then seal. Also, mark your bag in some manner (brightly colored ribbon or tape) to help distinguish it from the other 1,999.

Other

Camera, sunglasses, earplugs (for sleeping), penknife, book, deck of cards, personal identification, cash, bank card, postage stamps, address book, journal and separate bag for dirty laundry.

More Suggestions

You can find many other packing suggestions at Cycling Site. This is a useful site built and maintained by two of our avid participants.