Bright sunshine, blue skies or a day off: plenty of reasons to get out and about by bike again. With the growth in the number of e-bikes, we make longer cycling trips more often, in which case a bike bag is indispensable. We have some tips on gear that is useful to have with you.
Most panniers nowadays are made to fit electric bikes as well, and they often have handy side pockets or extra zip pockets. Especially on longer trips, it is handy to always carry the items on this list.
1. Sunscreen
Buy one of those handy travel sizes from the drugstore and your skin will thank you. Because particularly your neck, shoulders and face can burn quickly on the bike, especially if it’s a bit windy.
2. Plastic bag
A plastic bag will never go unused for long: you can use it as a rubbish bag after a break, as trash bins are not always easy to find. It can also come in handy when you come across a nice little shop along the way, so you don’t have to buy an extra bag unnecessarily.
3. First aid for tyre and leg
Take a compact box with items to fix a flat tyre, some plasters and tweezers, for example. In this way, you will be prepared for first aid in case of minor accidents.
4. A bottle of water
Nowadays, we often leave the house with a bottle of water. Staying hydrated while cycling is important. Plus, it’s handy if you need to clean something.
5. Rain jacket
The weather can change quickly. A rain coat keeps you dry and comfortable during a downpour. A lightweight and breathable model prevents overheating and takes up little space in your bag.
6. Pocket money
These days, we usually pay with our debit card or phone, but carrying a 50p or one pound can always come in handy. Sometimes, you need cash for a restroom visit or to donate to a good cause. It’s always useful to keep one in a pocket of your bike bag.
7. Sunglasses
A pair of sunglasses not only protects against bright light but also against wind, dust, and insects, making your cycling experience more comfortable and safer.
8. Healthy snack
A healthy snack is not a luxury when you’re covering a lot of kilometers. In just half an hour, you can burn around 100 kilocalories, so before you know it, you’ll need a little extra fuel. For example, bring some fresh fruit with you.
9. LED lights
For just a few euros, you can get handy lights that you can attach to your bike. Not only are they useful when your bike light unexpectedly fails, but they also provide extra visibility in traffic, such as on a narrow dike or in bad weather.
10. Pencil
“Do you happen to have a pen?” We increasingly write things digitally, but the good old pen still comes in handy more often than you’d think. It’s irreplaceable in many situations.
With these items in your bike bag, you’re well-prepared for your ride. Whether you’re going solo or with family or friends, it’s always nice to be able to handle unexpected situations. Start the cycling season fresh—read our article on a spring cleaning for your bike and bike bag here.
