Bike & Backpack Essentials
What I’ve Packed for the Long Road – Gear That’s Carried Me Through My Journey
by Bike and Backpack
Tried. Trusted. Traveled.
Two years on the road — eight months by bike, the rest with a backpack.
What you’ll find here isn’t hype or trends, but the gear that truly carried me through long rides, cold nights, and moments of doubt.
Every item earned its place — not for popularity, but because it worked.
Whether for your first big journey or a simpler way to move through the world, this is gear that showed up when it mattered.
✧ Nothing here is sponsored. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. Your support keeps this journey going. Thank you.
Everything I share here comes from my personal experience – things I’ve learned, tested, and adapted during two years on the road. It’s not tailored advice, but a guide to help you shape your own journey. Use what resonates. Do your own research. Ask your own questions.
If you’re already planning – congratulations: your journey has already begun.
International Health Insurance
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International Health Insurance – A quick Overview
As someone who has been travelling for years - by bike through Europe, later with a backpack across Asia - I quickly realised: Even small health issues abroad can quickly become expensive.
A minor accident or fever might be manageable at home, but abroad? Without proper coverage, it can become a stressful (and expensive) problem fast.
Standard health insurance? Often not sufficient — especially outside Europe.
I knew that I would be travelling for a long time and cancelled my health insurance.
And that's exactly why good international health insurance is one of the absolute essentials for me. In my case, long-term international health insurance.
It gives me the feeling that I'm covered in an emergency, whether in Georgia, Tajikistan or Sri Lanka - and without any financial worries.
If you're travelling long-term — whether as a digital nomad, student, or slow traveler — then an international health insurance plan is not a luxury. It's your lifeline.
Types of international health insurance
1. short-term health insurance abroad
Ideal for: Holiday trips up to approx. 56 days
✅ Inexpensive, easy to take out, often without a health check
❌ Not suitable for long-term stays
2. long-term health insurance abroad / international health insurance
Ideal for: digital nomads, expats, students, long-term travellers
✅ Worldwide cover, often freely selectable countries & benefits
✅ Also valid for longer absences from the home country
❌ Premium usually higher, health check often necessary
Practical Checklist: How to find the right international health insurance
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Duration: How long will you be travelling?
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Region: Where are you travelling? (EU, worldwide, USA included?)
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State of health: Are there any pre-existing conditions?
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Repatriation: Is medically appropriate repatriation covered?
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Payment method: Monthly premium or single payment?
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Cancellation periods: How flexible is the tariff?
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Provider: Does the provider have good ratings and transparent conditions?
My personal insurance journey (honest insight)
I want to be honest with you.
This point cost me a lot of time and energy in the past, as I had never dealt with this before. When I decided for HanseMerkur back then, I wanted to be sure. And that gave me a good feeling.
I spent a lot of money on security and didn't have to make use of many services. Fortunately.
It's up to you how much you want to spend on security , which is where research comes in .
Take your time and weigh up the options. Compare and go with your gut feeling.
Spending too little money on security is unlikely to be a good solution for your gut feeling later on. It's worth investing time in this point, even if it's not much fun.
I decided to go to SafteyWing after my contract with HanseMerkur ended. So far I have no experience that I can share.
Not sure where to start? Above, I’ve listed my providers worth looking into — based on my own research and experience.
*Knock on wood — I’ve only had to go to the hospital once…
Because of extremely swollen tonsils.
I urgently needed medical help in that case. And I'm not the one to go to the doctor for trifles.
Credit Cards
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Travel Credit Cards – What I use & what really matters
Let’s keep it real: if you’re on the road longer than a few weeks – you need a credit card. Period.
Whether you’re booking a hostel last minute, renting a scooter, paying for meds, or just withdraw in Vietnam – not having the right card can get expensive fast.
I learned this early – 8 months by bike through Europe, now backpacking across Asia.
Cash isn’t always king.
And not every card works the way you want it to abroad.
Why credit cards matter on the road
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✅ Hotel, hostel, or flight booking? Often only possible with a credit card.
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✅ Need a scooter or rental? Same thing.
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✅ Emergency? Hospital, pharmacy or getting home fast – you want to be covered.
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✅ ATM withdrawal? Contactless payment? Currency conversion? No card = no fun.
TLDR: You need a tool that gives you flexibility and control. A solid credit card does exactly that.
I personally always carry two:
One for everyday spending, one in case something goes wrong.
What to look for when choosing a travel card
Here’s what I found matters most – especially if you're abroad for a while:
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No foreign transaction fees
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Free worldwide ATM withdrawals
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Quick support in case of loss or theft
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Travel insurance included? (Sometimes helpful)
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A mobile app to block/unblock the card in seconds
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Bonus: cashback, miles, or partner deals
Practical tips for on the Go
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📌 Write down your PIN (and don't forget - it happened to me 😅)
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🎒 Carry the second card separately - e.g. deep in your rucksack or wallet
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📱 Activate push notifications in the app - immediate control
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💳 When you are asked: Always pay in local currency!!
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🔒 Save the blocking number as an offline note
Conclusion: freedom needs financial flexibility
The right credit card is like a Swiss army knife: you only realise how important it is when you need it. Whether in Kathmandu (Nepal), Tbilisi (Georgia) or on the street in Goa (India) - I'm glad I made a smart decision here.
Quick Tip:
I would like to give you a book recommendation to help you better understand the big issue of credit cards (and finances in general) and get the best out of it. Read the Chapter about the Credit Cards and you will understand.
Found this book during my journey. It is extremely worth it. I promise.
Link:
I'll Show You How to Get Rich: The Unique 6-Week Program That Really Works
– Ramit Sethi
From practice: My personal use case
For a while, I had a traditional German credit card with fees and restrictions. It worked well for a while - but not everywhere. I then switched to a card that is specially designed for digital nomads and frequent travelers.
Important: Don't be afraid to switch. Good cards can often be applied digitally - you don't have to go back to your home country. And they make travelling a lot easier.
More Than Just Equipment
"Beyond Packing Lists"
You can prepare all you want – lists, blogs, YouTube deep-dives. But nothing compares to standing in the rain, fixing your gear, and realising: the real lessons come from being out there.
Letting go of control was one of the hardest and most beautiful parts of my journey. Something will always break. Something’s always missing. But somehow – you’ll manage. You’ll grow.
This section isn’t just about tents or sleeping bags. It’s about what they represent: letting go, learning to trust, and realising that less can truly be enough.
If you’re still figuring it out – perfect. That’s what travel is for. I’m still figuring it out too.
Tent, Sleeping Bag, and Sleeping Pad
They’re not just equipment. Your tent, sleeping bag, and mat are your shelter, your sleep, your reset button. Choose them with care – they’ll carry you through more than just nights.
Tent: Mine was too big, too pricey, and not ideal for solo long-term travel. Still – don’t save money here. Your tent is your home, your hideout, your peace. Choose one that fits your route, weight limit, and comfort zone.
Sleeping Bag: Mine was perfect for the cold – and completely overkill in summer. Choose based on the actual temperatures you’ll face, not what the label promises.
Sleeping Pad: I underestimated this. Mine broke twice. When your sleep suffers, your mindset does too. Invest in a good one – your body will thank you after long rides.
Minimalism by Necessity
You start with too much. Everyone does.
But slowly, something shifts:
You stop needing more.
You start appreciating less.
You take care of what you have – because it’s what takes care of you.
👉 Broken gear = broken peace. Take care of your stuff.
Bike Repair Kit – What Actually Helped Me:
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Multitool – always useful
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Repair kit + spare tube
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Small pump
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Spare spokes + spoke wrench
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Brake pads (match your system!)
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Chain oil
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Chain tool (optional)
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Set of allen keys
What you carry depends on your route. I had no idea what was essential. In hindsight, I wish I’d gotten expert advice earlier.
Tipp:
Go to a bike shop and learn how to fix a flat tyre, clean the chain and adjust the brakes. This isn't just about getting your bike ready – it gives you peace of mind.
Your panniers will carry your life – so they better hold up.
I used Ortlieb panniers. Bit pricey, but they’ve taken a beating and still hold strong.
If something carries your world – invest in it.
Do your own research. Feel into where your journey is taking you.
There’s no perfect packing list – just the one that fits you.
*If I’ve missed something – or if you want me to expand this section – reach out.
I’m always happy to update, share more, or help you get started.
This isn’t about having all the answers – it’s about walking the road together.
״Stress isn’t given – it’s self-driven.״
Why travelling by bike is more than just a trend
I spent over 8 months on the road – cycling across Europe, through the peaks of Mountains in Montenegro, and into the heart of Turkey. What I realised: bike travel doesn’t just take you places – it transforms you.
It’s quiet. Honest. Slower in all the right ways. You’re not passing by – you’re part of it. You feel the wind, the rain, the weight of the climb and the reward of the view. There’s no filter. No windscreen. Just you and the road.
And the best part? You move on your own terms – free, self-reliant, and climate-friendly.
Bikepacking is more than a way to move – it’s therapy on two wheels. It clears your head, builds resilience, and opens you up to real encounters. Because when you show up on a bike, people notice – and connect.
What follows is a practical overview of what I’ve learned, used, and recommend – not from theory, but from the road.
Which Bikes Are Actually Suitable for Long Journeys?
Forget the idea of “the perfect bike.” The best bike is the one that fits you – your route, your rhythm, your reality. Budget, terrain, and comfort matter more than specs on paper.
Here’s a quick overview from the road:
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Trekking Bike
A true all-rounder. Sturdy, reliable, usually with a pannier rack and hub dynamo. Perfect for long distances on asphalt and well-maintained gravel.
✅ Versatile and road-proven | ❌ On the heavier side – but you won’t care after week two
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Gravel Bike
Light, sporty, ready for forest tracks and wild trails. Great if you're aiming for speed and don’t need to carry the kitchen sink.
✅ Agile and fun | ❌ Limited luggage capacity
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Touring Bike
Built to go the distance. Steel frame, lots of mounting points, low-maintenance setup. It’s the workhorse of long-term cyclists.
✅ Extremely durable | ❌ Can be pricey – but built to last
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E-Bike (not ideal for long-term travel)
Helpful for day trips or short tours, especially in mountainous terrain. But for multi-month rides, charging becomes the real challenge
✅ Extra push on climbs | ❌ Battery range, weight & tech dependency
The Gear That Makes or Breaks Your Ride
"Less is more" hits different when every gram counts – but only if you’ve got the right gear. Here’s the bare-bones setup I wouldn’t leave without:
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Pannier rack + bags: Waterproof. Tough. Well-balanced.
→ Ortlieb is my go-to – proven in rain, mud & sun. -
Lights & reflectors: You’ll ride into the dusk more often than planned. Be seen. Especially in tunnels. Stay safe.
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Tools & spares: Inner tube, multitool, chain lube, lock.
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Saddle & grips: If it’s not comfortable, it won’t work. Period.
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Clothing: Layer up. Breathable + waterproof is the magic combo.
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Hydration system: Always carry more water than you think you need.
This is just a glimpse of what’s carried me through storms, border crossings, breakdowns – and some of the best days of my life.
👉 Check out my "Travel Gear" section for the full breakdown.
Planning & navigation on the road
A rough plan gives direction – but your real superpower is staying flexible.
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Komoot / Mapy.cz / Maps.me / Organic Maps
→ All offline-capable, easy to use, made for real-world travel. -
Warmshowers & Trustroots
→ Great for meeting locals, finding a place to crash, and sharing stories. -
Google Maps (use with caution)
→ Fine for orientation, not made for bikes – combine it with the above.
👉 Depending on terrain and weather, 60–90 km/day is a realistic pace.
But listen to your body.
I’m keeping this part short – there’s a rabbit hole of planning tools out there.
But the ones above? They’ve helped me more than once when signal, signage, and certainty all failed.
Let your map guide you – not define you.
The detours often hold the best stories.
Safety & comfort: straight from the road
These aren't “nice-to-haves” – they're what keep you riding:
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Helmet & lights: Non-negotiable. Day and night, safety comes first.
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Theft protection: Two locks minimum. Out of sight = peace of mind.
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Puncture repair kit: Inner tube, tyre levers, mini pump – your trailside toolbox.
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Weather gear: Don’t gamble. Too much rain protection is better than too little.
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Chain love: Keep it clean, keep it moving. A happy chain = a happy ride.
Comfort and safety aren't opposites. They're partners – especially when your bike becomes your home.
Inspiring Destinations – Where the Road Took Me (and Where It Still Calls)
Some routes left dust on my bike and memories in my bones. Others are still on the list.
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EuroVelo Routes – Especially EV6 along the Danube. A classic. Smooth paths, rich culture, safe & scenic.
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The Caucasus (Georgia & Armenia) – Raw. Rugged. Full of heart. Mountain passes, open arms, and real challenge. Didn't do it, heard it is totally worth it.
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Tajikistan (Pamir Highway) – Thin air, big skies. A road for the bold. (Did it by Car)
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Persia (Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan) – Monumental landscapes. Unexpected warmth. Not always easy, but always powerful.
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Slovenia – My underrated favourite. Forests, rivers, hospitality. Quiet magic.
Every road teaches you something. These taught me a lot.
Bonus: My Bikepacking Essentials
In my Gear List, you’ll find what carried me through thousands of kilometers – tested on asphalt, mud, and gravel. Nothing fancy, just what worked.
If you’re just getting started and unsure where to begin – reach out. I’ve been there.
Everyone’s journey looks different. But the road?
It teaches us all the same: trust, patience, and the joy of moving forward.
Clothing for the Road
What you wear while travelling matters – more than you think.
Whether you’re pedaling across countries or trekking with a backpack, every item adds weight. And the longer the journey, the more you'll feel it. Especially on a bike – where every gram counts.
This section leans a bit more toward bike travel – because packing the wrong gear hits hard in the saddle. But even for backpackers, smart clothing choices can make the difference between flow and frustration.
My Honest Experience
In the early days of my trip, I packed too much – driven by inexperience and that familiar “just in case” feeling.
Turns out: everything you bring, you carry. Literally. And honestly? Some things were never used. Not even once.
Depending on where you are in the world, you can often buy what you need locally – lighter, cheaper, and better suited to the region.
One Journey, Many Climates
When your route leads through deserts, over mountain passes, and along windy coastlines, your clothing needs to adapt.
That’s why I still swear by the classic 3-layer principle:
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Base: breathable & quick-drying
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Mid: for warmth
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Shell: wind- & waterproof
But here’s the thing: gear isn’t everything.
Comfort = Performance
Practicality matters – but so does how you feel in your clothes. If you’re on the road for months, your second skin should feel like you.
Function and comfort – not one or the other.
Especially on the bike, you sweat. A lot. Changing clothes daily? Not always an option.
That’s why your fabrics matter. In the links above, you’ll find a brand using wood-based fibers – a game changer.
They stay fresh (or at least don’t stink) even after days of use.
My Bikepacking Clothing Essentials
Here’s what worked for me over thousands of kilometers – from icy mornings to humid border crossings:
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Merino wool or wood-fiber shirts & socks: odor-resistant, warm even when wet
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A warm layer: crucial for altitude and chilly nights
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Rain gear: 100% worth the weight
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Two outfits: one for riding/hiking, one for resting
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Accessories: scarf or buff, sunglasses, gloves
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Lightweight, versatile pants
✅What Worked (And What Didn’t)
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Padded cycling trousers
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Breathable pants – long & short
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Shirts that can get dirty without regret
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Socks (they wear out – keep it simple)
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Underwear (same rule as socks)
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Jackets: multifunctional is ideal – but breathable
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Lightweight windbreaker: surprisingly useful
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Gloves: essential in cold climates (underestimated this big time)
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Buffs & scarves: light and practical
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Hat: rarely used, but helpful in wind or mountains.
Quick Note on Shoes
You’ll likely need two pairs: one for warm weather, one for cold.
In India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, I lived in flip-flops for Months.
In the mountains? Waterproof trail shoes were a must.
And if a shoe fails? No stress – replacements are available almost everywhere.
Anecdote:
A Spaniard I met in Turkey had a brilliant hack:
When it rained, he stashed his shoes and rode in socks. Smart move – because wet shoes take days to dry.
Tools that actually made a difference
Tech can empower your journey – or just slow you down.
For me, after two years of travel (8 months by bike, then with a backpack), it became clear: only a few tools truly added value. The rest? Just expensive passengers I carried too far.
My Everyday Digital Companions
These tools didn’t just come along for the ride – they proved their worth, day after day:
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Smartphone – My everything-tool: map, translator, camera, bank, compass. Can't imagine traveling without it.
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Powerbank (Anker) – Lifesaver on remote routes with no sockets for days.
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Earphones – Switched from Teufel to OnePlus. Reliable, simple, light.
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Kindle – I’ll always prefer real books. But when you live out of bags, space wins.
For Capturing & Creating
If you’re documenting your trip or working remotely:
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GoPro 11 – One of my smartest investments. Tiny. Tough. Perfect for memory-making.
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Laptop (Asus) – For editing, writing, visa applications, online research – and the occasional movie.
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External HDD – Crucial for backups, especially long-term.
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Anker Plug Hub – Massive time-saver. Charge everything from one spot.
Bike-Specific Tech
What helped while cycling across Europe & Asia:
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Garmin GPS – Gave me solid stats and kept me on track. Not essential – but helpful.
Cheaper options exist, and apps like Komoot or Maps.me cover 90% of the job.
Honestly, Garmin can make life easier on two wheels – but it depends on the model and your budget. Not a must, but not a mistake either.
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Laptop Powerbank – Looked smart on paper. Turned out to be heavy and barely used. Wouldn’t take it again.
Lessons Learned
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Pack only what solves real problems.
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Lightweight & multi-purpose wins every time.
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You can buy or replace almost anything on the road – but it can hurt your budget.
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Don’t carry things just because they might be useful.
Tech Evolves. So Do You.
As a long-term traveler, my tech use has changed – and so have my needs.
The truth? You won’t know what’s essential until you're out there.
So pack thoughtfully.
Remember: It’s not just about weight – it’s about your money, your energy, and your daily rhythm.
Ask yourself:
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Is this tool worth carrying?
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Is it worth the investment?
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And most importantly – will it help me move forward?
Miscellaneous
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The Small Things That Matter
Not every travel item needs a fancy category – but some of the smallest things turned out to be my most trusted companions.
They’re light, they’re quiet – and they rarely make the gear lists you’ll find online. But when you need them, they deliver.
These are the underdogs of long-term travel – especially when you’re bikepacking or moving through remote areas.
Here’s a short list of gear I ended up truly relying on. Depending on your trip, destination, and how you travel – some of these might make a real difference for you too.
And if not – you’ll quickly find out what earns its spot in your pack.
Light, Water & Tools
Headlamp: For digging through panniers, pitching tents after dark, or just finding your toothbrush in the forest – a headlamp is gold. Mine never left the top of my bag.
Water filter: Especially useful when cycling through remote or arid zones. Gave me peace of mind when there was no clean water in sight.
Whether it’s essential depends on where you travel – in the highlands of Central Asia, it could be a no-brainer.
Bike tools: Even as a beginner, I quickly learned: a solid basic toolkit isn’t optional – it’s essential. Whether it was a flat in the middle of nowhere or loose brakes after bumpy gravel roads – I ended up reaching for mine more often than I thought.
Pocketknife: The ultimate all-rounder. Whether cutting fruit, fixing gear, or opening stubborn packaging – I wouldn’t travel without it.
Organization Hacks
Zip bags: Incredibly useful – for food, tech, or keeping your passport dry.
One of those cheap things that end up being priceless.
Small pouches: I used them to separate tools, toiletries, tech – basically anything I didn’t want swimming in my panniers. The more rugged, the better.
Clothesline: I packed one – but rarely used it. My bike usually doubled as my drying rack.
Staying Connected & Ready
Travel Adapter / Multiplug:
Didn’t use it every week – but when I needed it, I was seriously glad I had it.
In countries with different plug types or in hostels with limited sockets, this little tool saved me time and frustration.
👉 One adapter, multiple charging options – simple, but essential.
Passport photos: Never needed them – but they weigh nothing. No harm having a few on hand.
Water bottle: Always. Hydration is non-negotiable – wherever you are.
Documents That Travel With Me
I carry my most important travel documents both physically and digitally.
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Passport: always close, in a waterproof pouch
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Visa documents
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Vaccination card
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SIM cards
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Digital + physical backups
I’ve trusted a waterproof pouch from Ortlieb for all my documents – and it hasn’t let me down. Rainstorms, dusty borders, wet panniers… everything stayed dry and in one place. If you're looking for peace of mind – this one’s worth it. → Ortlieb Document Bag
Travel tip:
Scan your most important documents and send them to yourself by email. You may not need them often, but when you do, they are just a few clicks away.
The Invisible Support System
These aren’t the kind of items you show off on Instagram – but they quietly hold your journey together.
Not glamorous. Not heavy. Just essential.
I probably won’t carry every item on this list in the future – and you won’t either.
Your trip will shape your gear. Planning and research help, but in the end, you’ll figure it out as you go.
If you’re unsure what’s truly useful – reach out. I’ve tested all of this the hard way.
🌍 The Road Is Waiting
You’ve seen the gear, the lessons, and the little things that make the journey smoother – or simply possible.
But in the end, it’s not about the tools.
It’s about the path you take with them.
What you carry matters.
But how you carry yourself – that’s where the transformation begins.
Start where you are. With what you have.
The rest will meet you on the road.
And remember:
Planning is already part of the journey.
You’ll learn more than you expect – about gear, about the world, and most of all: about yourself.
Like I said earlier – your journey has already begun.
🔄 Got questions? Missing something?
Reach out. I’m just a message away.
If you want updates, personal tips, or early access to new tools I’m working on –
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Let’s keep learning. Let’s keep moving.