Hey there, in a week I'll be flying out for my first real tour at RAGBRAI (and tomorrow I'm going out for a one nighter). I know RAGBRAI is probably the most "supported" tour but I'm still stressing about being unprepared (also I'm bagging and will try not to rely on the trucks). I made a packing list here but I am not sure if I am bringing useless stuff and/or missing something important so I am asking your expert advice! Thanks 🙂
by erpasd
3 Comments
Too small letters
Maybe lose 1 shirt 1 shorts and some of that footwearÂ
Not a bad list! Though, your clothing is maybe 3x more than what you need. I would drastically cut back there and beef up the repair kit & first aid kit. There are a couple must-have’s missing from your repair kit.
Here is a detailed review:
Clothing: (cut this back A LOT)
-1 underwear, if not -2
-1 shorts
rain jacket – yes, do bring
sweater – if you are a cold sleeper and are bringing a light bag, then yes; or if you are going to high altitudes
-1 jersey
flip flop or sandals, not both (I’d go with sandals)
-1 sneakers
-1 cycling socks, -1 light socks. 3 pairs are all you need.
-1 towel
+ consider bringing arm warmers, and/or leg warmers
+ consider bringing rain pants
+ consider bringing a cycling cap, or a neck gaiter, something that you can wear between your head and helmet.
Camping:
– Do you really need a full 5 bungee cords? Those are heavy. Are you going to use every single one of them? Can any be replaced with cord and line locks? (https://dutchwaregear.com/product/fleaz/). Consider also bringing straps instead of bungees, the straps used to tie ski’s together are very versatile, strong, and weigh a lot less
Torque wrench is questionable. Perhaps you can go to a bike shop to get the torque dialed in
Hiplock is a good choice for a lock solution, much lighter than most cables + lock.
Tent stakes?
– Bring rope only if you have a use for it. Are you hanging your food? Then bring it. You probably don’t need actual rope, but splicable cord, or waxed cord. Those cords can usually hold a good 20-40kg, plenty for anything you need. Having the extra line can be handy too for drying clothes
– torch or headlight, you might not need both.
– spare batteries for headlight or torch? You might not need these if resupply is frequent and if your trip is short. Just put fresh ones in before leaving.
+ dry bag? A very small dry bag can be good for keeping stuff that must be dry, and is a good single place to keep your money & ID