Packing for Vermont Bikepacking
Vermont bikepacking comes in all flavors and the best way to feel comfortable during riding season is to come prepared with the right gear. This doesn’t mean that you have to buy a bunch of new gear. My guess is that you could put together a very solid packlist with the stuff you already have in your closet. Running, hiking, and camping gear can all be used for bikepacking.
Below is are two lists of gear I like to bring on any Vermont bikepacking trip — one for summer and one for spring and fall. The difference is entirely dependent on temperature, with spring and fall requiring a few more layers and a warmer sleeping bag.
Summer Vermont bikepacking gear list
Sleeping
Tent - hammocks, bivies, and other shelters also work fine. Just be sure to bring a rain fly.
Sleeping bag - 40 degree bags are plenty warm
Sleeping pad
Food and Drink
2-3 water bottles totaling 2 liters
Spork for lunch
Some specifics if you are on a Ramble trip:
We provide breakfast and dinner (and all the associated plates, cutlery, napkins, etc.)
Lunches are purchased en route so you will only need to carry snacks for the day
We will have a water filter for filling up on water during the day. We will also pass through at least one town per day and can fill up with water there.
Clothing
Shorts – some people love a chamois, some don’t. Wear whatever feels good for a day in the saddle.
Riding t-shirt – wool or synthetic as it can be quite humid in the summer
2 pairs of socks - or 1 pair. Whatever your feet prefer.
Camp shirt – This is optional. Feel free just to wear your riding shirt or bring something to change into.
Lightweight shorts for camp – running shorts work well. Something for post-ride activities.
Rain jacket - Anything packable will work.
Rain pants – these are optional. If the weather seems wet, it’s not a bad idea to have a pair at camp.
Light-weight long sleeve shirt – wool or synthetic. Stuff your chamois into it and it turns into a pretty comfy pillow.
Wind jacket – Like a Patagonia Houdini or Cotopaxi Windbreaker, but no need to buy something new. Any windbreaker will do.
Helmet - road or mountain works. A good fit is better than the brand.
Riding shoes – flats and clipless both work well.
Camp shoes – crocs, flip flops, or any lightweight shoe is perfect.
Mid-weight thermal top – nights can get cool even in summer. If you tend to run warm a mid-weight synthetic shirt should suffice. If you tend to run cold, consider bringing a fleece or a light puffy jacket.
Gloves – These are optional. Ramble routes are not technical in any way that would require gloves.
Electronics
Phone and cord
Ear buds – for camp, not for riding☺
Headlamp
GPS unit – Only if you want to bring one. We can send you the GPX track to upload. If you don’t have one, no worries, the route will be led by a guide.
We provide a charging block for phones and other electronics. We also have a small Bluetooth speaker for evening music.
Sundries
Journal - I’m a sucker for field notes.
Spare tube
Toiletries – Toothbrush, tooth paste, etc.
Sunscreen
Mask
Small bottle of hand sanitizer
Sunglasses
Tools and repair
We carry all the necessary tools and extra gear for most mechanical issues that may happen during the day. We have a more comprehensive tool and repair kit in camp where we can address more significant mechanical issues. We will also have a med kit for use during the ride and in camp.
Spring and Fall bikepacking gear list
Sleeping
Tent - 3 season
Sleeping bag - 30 degree bags are usually sufficient as night time temperatures can drop below freezing in May, September and October. If you are a cold sleeper, plan on bringing a warmer bag (like 20 degree)
Sleeping pad – an insulated pad is recommended for October trips
Food and Drink
2-3 water bottles totaling 2 liters
Spork for lunch
Some specifics if you are on a Ramble trip:
We provide breakfast and dinner (and all the associated plates, cutlery, napkins, etc.)
Lunches are purchased en route so you will only need to carry snacks for the day
We will have a water filter for filling up on water during the day. We will also pass through at least one town per day and can fill up with water there.
Clothing
Shorts – some people love a chamois, some don’t. Wear whatever feels good for a day in the saddle.
Riding t-shirt – wool or synthetic as it can be quite humid in the summer
2 pairs of socks - or 1 pair. Whatever your feet prefer.
Camp shirt – This is optional. Feel free just to wear your riding shirt or bring something to change into.
Lightweight shorts for camp – running shorts work well. Something for post-ride activities.
Rain jacket - Anything packable will work.
Rain pants – these are optional. If the weather seems wet, it’s not a bad idea to have a pair at camp.
Light-weight long sleeve shirt – wool or synthetic. Stuff your chamois into it and it turns into a pretty comfy pillow.
Wind jacket – Like a Patagonia Houdini or Cotopaxi Windbreaker, but no need to buy something new. Any windbreaker will do.
Helmet - road or mountain works. A good fit is better than the brand.
Riding shoes – flats and clipless both work well.
Camp shoes – crocs, flip flops, or any lightweight shoe is perfect.
Mid-weight thermal top
Mid-weight leggings - good for staying warm while riding and sleeping.
Puffy jacket - something warm but not too bulky. A thick fleece jacket would also work.
Gloves – a warm pair of riding gloves is essential for morning riding in the spring and fall.
Buff
Hat or headband
Electronics
Phone and cord
Ear buds – for camp, not for riding☺
Headlamp
GPS unit – only if you want to bring one. We can send you the GPX track to upload. If you don’t have one, no worries, the route will be led by a guide.
We provide a charging block for phones and other electronics. We also have a small Bluetooth speaker for evening music.
A few other things to consider
When riding in Vermont, you’re never that far from a small town with a general store. General stores are often the social and commercial hub for rural communities and are also a great place to grab food and supplies. I generally travel with just a day’s worth of food, knowing that I can often get fresh food along the way. Digging into a stacked sandwich or enchiladas from the farmer’s market definitely beats a ramen packet!
Thankfully water is abundant in Vermont. I usually don’t carry more than two liters at a time and almost never have a dry campsite. Cows and wildlife are abundant so it’s best to always filter your water, even from pristine looking mountain streams.
Summers can be downright tropical. Finding a river for a mid-day swim is a great way to cool down and chill out. There is lots of public access to rivers, just look for a roadside pull out and a faint trail down to the water.
I also recommend a trip abroad. Quebec is just right there, less than 50 miles from our home in Richmond. There are many options for crossing the border. This might include a ride to Montreal or just a cruise through the Eastern Townships. Either way, Quebec has excellent riding, wonderful food, and you get to practice your French!