What to Pack
Day Rides
Comfortable Backpack
note that 30-litre capacity is the largest you’d want to carry). You can also carry gear in a frame bag or seat pack; there are lots of fantastic bike-packing set-ups available.
Food
Take more than enough to keep you fuelled up. That cafe or shop you thought would be open might not be.
Water
water (and water bottle/bladder) – although many rides have water sources where you can top up your bottle, always set off with sufficient supplies and work out where you can get more.
Layered Cycling Clothes
Kashmir’s changeable conditions call for several layers. We recommend wearing a good thermal top – Kashmir wool is ideal – in between a short-sleeve sports top and an outer layer such as a fleece or shell.
Cycling Gloves
Highly recommended to keep your hands warm and free of blisters.
Raincoat
if there’s any possibility of cold temperatures or rain, wet-weather gear is essential. In colder seasons, wool socks and warm gloves are also recommended.
Cycle Helmets
Wearing one is compulsory in Kashmir; they are available from bike hire depots and bike shops.
Sunscreen
sunscreen (and sunglasses) – the Kashmir sun can be harsh, especially in the summer months. If you plan to spend time off the bike, it will pay to pack a sunhat, too. A merino or cotton buff, or bandana, will also help keep the sun off the back of your neck, and keep you warm when its cold.
First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is recommended for all rides, but especially on remote or more technical rides. Tour operators should provide you or your group with one.
Communication Device
Although coverage is not always guaranteed, carrying a fully charged cellphone is recommended. For remote trails, such as the Warwan-Marwah, Kistwar-Baderwah, riders should consider taking a personal locator beacon (PLB) or spot tracker.
Map
Even on the shortest of day rides, a map will help you time your ride and identify points of interest along the way.
Spares & Tools
for longer or remote rides, someone in your group should be carrying spare tubes, a pump, lube and any other bike tools (e.g. tyre levers, multi-tool, puncture repair kit as a minimum) as appropriate. Tour operators can advise you and should be able to provide you with basic spares and tools, too.
Torch, Headlamp or Bike Lights
For longer or remote rides, someone in your group should be carrying spare tubes, a pump, lube and any other bike tools (e.g. tyre levers, multi-tool, puncture repair kit as a minimum) as appropriate. Tour operators can advise you and should be able to provide you with basic spares and tools, too.
Survival Kit
For remote rides, consider taking a basic survival kit – this may seem excessive but it could save a life in the event of an emergency.
Multi Day Rides
- tent or bivvy bag – if you’re not staying under a proper roof, then you’re a true bike-packer! You, will however, need a quality lightweight tent or bivvy bag to cope with the Kashmir weather conditions.
- sleeping bag & sleeping mat – essential for a good night’s sleep!
- food – you will need a lot more food; dehydrated meals are a great weight and space-saver, and some now even taste good…
- clothing – spare socks, more merino underlayers (including long johns for cool conditions), a fleece jacket and a woolly hat/thin balaclava.
- toiletries – travel-sized toiletries and a pack towel come into their own here. Don’t forget toilet paper (in a waterproof bag).
- spares & tools – chain tool, spoke tool, bungy cords, mini-tool with pliers. Don’t forget duct tape and cable ties; it’s amazing what you can fix with them.
- cooking equipment – cooker, pot(s), plate/bowl, cup, cutlery and penknife
- front & rear lights – essential for those dark, early starts, and when you’ve been delayed and have to cycle beyond dusk to reach your destination.
- compass/GPS (and batteries) – if you’re heading off the grid, these navigational aids should help you get back on it.
- chamois cream (e.g. Sweet Cheeks Butt Butter) – will help prevent and sooth the almost inevitable chafing, blisters and sores.
- dry bags or plastic bags – bikepacking bags and backpacks aren’t generally waterproof; kit that needs to stay dry should be put in a dry bag or plastic bag.
- spare tyre – for irreparable blow-outs.
- bike lock – better safe than sorry…
- earplugs – small, light and impervious to hut snorers.
Optional extras include:
- cycle computer
- jandals/flip-flops/hut shoes
- puffer jacket
- water filter/purification tablets
- battery bank for charging mobile phone
- sarong – has many different uses
- sleeping bag liner
- bar ends & aero bars – for comfort and to give your hands a rest
