When packing your suitcase for a cycling vacation, there are many doubts: what to bring to be prepared for all eventualities? What shoes are appropriate? What if it rains? Do I need a backpack? What about a padded seat cover? Here are a few tips on how to best prepare: use this list as a handy checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything!

Sportswear and breathable clothing

Choose casual, comfortable cycling clothing: cotton or breathable t-shirts, long and short pants, and a lightweight, comfortable, and compact windproof jacket that you can pack and carry with you all day. Bring a bathing suit, too, so you’re ready for the ocean, lake or pool. Bike mittens are not essential, but they can make your hands more comfortable on the handlebars. Neck warmers can also be useful to shield you from the air as you pick up speed.

Equipped for sun and rain

Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen: you will be outdoors for many hours, so it is better to prevent annoying sunburns. If it rains, it’s no tragedy: don’t forget your raincoat and take it with you philosophically! Read more about how to dress for biking in the rain.

Padded saddle cover and shorts

There are several schools of thought here. Whichever gimmick you use, know that there will always be some bruising on the B-side, but after a while you get used to it. Padded shorts are useful: remember to wear them without underwear for maximum comfort. Or you can opt for a padded saddle cover: our saddles are gel and designed to be as comfortable as possible, but extra support helps. Choose between shorts and a saddle cover, but don’t use both!

The perfect shoe

We always recommend a sporty and comfortable shoe. In the summer, many people prefer sports sandals: they have the advantage that they don’t get soaked in the rain like shoes, but watch out for your toes when you get back on or get into the saddle. We recommend that you do a few trials before you set off to see which one suits you best.

Helmet and reflectors

On some tours the helmet is provided or you can rent it. Depending on the destination you choose, check whether it is compulsory or not: in any case, we always recommend that you bring it. Wear it and fasten it well to ride safely. Bicycles are always equipped with front and rear lights, and you usually ride during the day and on cycle paths: if you have them, bring reflective bands to make you even more visible.

No backpack!

A backpack is not the best way to carry everything you need for the day. It is uncomfortable and makes your back sweat, with the risk of catching cold at the first breeze. The perfect solution is the side bag: they are often provided so you don’t have to carry them, but always check before you go. What do you need to put in it? Just what you need for the day: rain/wind cape or jacket, dry change, wallet, a snack.

Do not forget

Of course, don’t forget to take with you:

• Documents: ID card, health card, any reservation documents you have received
• camera, smartphone and charger
• portfolio
• water bottle
• Before you leave, also read our contest rules to participate in your comeback

Happy holidays!