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Taking part in a self-guided cycling holiday in the UK is an exciting prospect; especially if you’ve just booked a bespoke multi-day cycling tour designed specifically for you and your biking friends by the cycling tour experts at Trailbrakes Biking Holidays! Knowing what to pack will help you stay comfortable, confident and free to enjoy every mile of your cycling adventure. There are a lot of aspects to consider after you've booked your cycling holiday, for example changing weather, long days in the saddle, and the joy of finishing each ride ready to explore your destination. The key to packing for an adventurous cycling tour is remembering key essential items, without overpacking.
Here are some recommendations from our team, who've cycled their fair share of long-distance, multi-day biking routes throughout some of the most remote areas of the UK:
Essential Cycling Kit for a Biking Tour in the UK
- 2–3 pairs of padded cycling shorts or bib shorts
- Breathable cycling jerseys
- Lightweight base layers
- A windproof and waterproof cycling jacket (essential for UK cycling holidays)
- Arm and leg warmers for changeable conditions
Off-the-Bike Clothing for Cycling Holidays
- Comfortable casual clothes for evenings
- One smarter outfit for dining out
- Lightweight jumper or fleece
- Comfortable shoes or sandals
Safety and Daily Essentials for Self-Guided Cycling Tours
- Cycling helmet
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Reusable water bottles
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Cycling gloves
- Insect repellent, especially important for biking tours in the west of Scotland
Tools and Mechanical Biking Kit to Bring on a Biking Tour
- Small saddle bag or handlebar bag
- Multi-tool
- Spare inner tube
- Mini pump or CO₂ inflator
- Mobile phone with navigation app
- Power bank (particularly useful on longer UK cycling routes)
- Rear derailleur hanger specific to the make and model of your bike
- Spare bike brake pads specific to the make and model of your brakes
Personal Care and Health Items for Cycling Holidays
- Personal medication
- Small first-aid kit
- Anti-chafing cream
- Muscle balm or recovery gel
- Travel-size toiletries
More information on this topic can be found on the Kit List page of our website.
We did it!! Incredibly proud of us all, especially the children. It was a tough but fabulous challenge which we really enjoyed. Had poor weather conditions at times but what...