Bikepacking Packing Lists: Quick Overnighters and Extended Hotel Tours
Are you ready to embark on your next bikepacking adventure? Whether you're planning a quick overnight trip (known as an S24O - Sub-24 Hour Overnight) or a multi-day hotel tour, having the right gear properly packed is crucial for a successful journey. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down two essential packing lists to help you prepare for different types of bikepacking experiences.
Essential Gear for a Minimal Gravel S24O Adventure
The S24O trip is perfect for beginners or those looking to squeeze in a quick adventure mid-week or over the weekend. This minimalist approach focuses on carrying just what you need for a comfortable overnight experience in nature.
Handlebar Roll Organization
Your handlebar roll should contain your sleep system, including:
- A compact sleeping bag or quilt for temperature-appropriate comfort
- A lightweight sleeping pad for insulation and cushioning
- A packable pillow for proper rest
Fork Cargo Cage Setup
Utilize your fork cargo cages for camp essentials:
- Compact shelter (tent)
- Cooking system (Jetboil and fuel)
- Morning essentials (instant coffee and cup)
Seat Pack Contents
The seat pack carries your clothing layers:
- Base layers (shorts, t-shirt, socks)
- Insulation layers (pants, jacket)
- Weather protection (hat/beanie)
- Quick-dry towel for moisture management
Frame Cargo Storage
Your frame cargo area holds the bulk of your gear:
- Hydration (water)
- Nutrition (dinner, breakfast, snacks)
- Electronics (headphones, battery, headlamp)
- Tools and repair kit (Leatherman, bike tools)
- Personal care (bug spray, sunscreen, toiletries)
- Security (bike lock)
Top Tube Bag Essentials
Keep frequently accessed items in your top tube bag:
- Trail snacks
- Bike pump
- Hand sanitizer
And here is a quick list you can copy/paste into your notes app so you can keep track of what is packed!
Of course, your setup may differ, but all the essentials are listed so you can quickly rearrange things based on your bags, cargo cages, etc.
S24O Packing List
Handlebar Roll
Sleeping bag / quilt
Sleeping pad
Pillow
Fork Cargo Cages
Instant coffee
Cup
Fuel
Jetboil
Tent
Seat Pack
Shorts
Socks
T-shirt
Hat / Beanie
Pants
Jacket
Small towel
Frame Cargo
Water
Dinner - sandwich or burrito
Whiskey flask
Headphones
Pad and pencil
Quarters
Breakfast - bar
Bug spray
Baby wipes
First aid kit
Sunscreen
Dr bronners soap
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Leatherman
Battery
Headlamp
Bike lock
Bike tools
Top Tube Bag
Snacks
Pump
Hand sanitizer
Hotel Touring: A Different Approach to Bikepacking
Hotel touring combines the joy of long-distance cycling with the comfort of proper accommodation. This setup prioritizes riding efficiency and comfort while eliminating camping gear.
Optimized Fork Storage
- Dedicated hydration storage with 1.5L capacity on each side
Expanded Seat Pack
Focus on clothing management:
- Multiple riding outfits (shorts, shirts, socks)
- I like to be able to switch off clothes day to day and do a little sink wash of the stinky stuff and let them dry overnight
- Off-bike comfort wear (light pants, shorts for sleeping)
- Weather protection (light jacket, long sleeve)
- Accessories (extra gloves, hat, handkerchief)
Comprehensive Frame Bag
Your frame bag becomes command central:
- Electronics (fast chargers, battery)
- Footwear (casual shoes)
- I only use flat pedals so I typically just use my biking shoes, but some may want to opt for something comfier!
- Extended repair kit (spokes, cables, brake pads)
- Tool collection (bike tools, Leatherman, pump)
- Personal care items (chamois butter, toiletries)
- Emergency supplies (first aid kit, extra straps)
Accessible Top Tube Bag
Keep essentials within reach:
- Personal items (phone, wallet, lip balm)
- Emergency nutrition (Red Bull, Nuun tablets)
- Various snacks for sustained energy
And here is a quick list you can copy/paste into your notes app so you can keep track of what is packed!
Of course, your setup may differ, but all the essentials are listed so you can quickly rearrange things based on your bags, cargo cages, etc.
Hotel Bikepacking Pack List
Fork
Water, 1.5L each side
Seat Pack
Extra gloves
Hat
Biking T-shirt
Biking shorts
Biking Socks
Light Pants
long sleeve
Shorts that double as PJs
Extra handkerchief
Light Jacket
Frame Bag
Fast charger(s)
Casual shoes
First aid kit
Chamois butter
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Sunscreen
Pills
Spokes
Extra strap
Extra backpack
Small towel / handkerchief
Hand sanitizer
Brake pads
Extra shifter cable
Extra brake cable
Spare bolts
Derailleur hanger
Zip ties
Chainlink
Small bottle dry lube
Bike tools
Extra sealant and co2
Leatherman
Pump
Battery
Bike lock
Top Tube Bag / Egress Bag
Phone
Wallet
Lip balm
Emergency red bull
Nuun
Snacks galore
Key Differences and Considerations
The main distinction between these setups lies in their intended use. The S24O list prioritizes self-sufficiency with camping gear, while the hotel touring list focuses on extended riding comfort and mechanical preparedness. Both lists emphasize the importance of proper hydration, nutrition, and basic repair capabilities.
Tips for Success
- Test your packing setup before any major trip
- Adjust quantities based on trip duration
- Consider weather conditions when selecting clothing
- Always carry basic tools regardless of trip length
- Pack items you need frequent access to in easily reachable locations
Remember, these lists serve as starting points - modify them based on your specific needs, riding style, and destination. The key to successful bikepacking is finding the right balance between being prepared and packing light.
Whether you're heading out for a quick overnight adventure or planning an extended hotel tour, proper gear organization will enhance your bikepacking experience. Start with these lists and adapt them to create your perfect setup.
Whatever your cup of tea - be sure to check out our products for versatile cargo solutions for all types of trips!
Keywords: bikepacking, S24O, hotel touring, bike touring, cycling gear, bike camping, gravel cycling, bicycle touring, bike packing list, cycling equipment