Bikepacking Guide for 2025: Gear, Routes, and Planning Tips

The Growing Appeal of Bikepacking

Bikepacking—the art of self-sufficient adventure cycling with lightweight gear strapped to your bike—has exploded in popularity over the past few years. Unlike traditional bike touring with panniers, bikepacking emphasizes minimalism, off-road capability, and the freedom to explore beyond the beaten path.

In 2025, bikepacking continues to evolve with innovations in ultralight gear, expanded route networks, and technological advancements that make this style of adventure more accessible than ever. Whether you're planning your first overnight trip or preparing for a cross-continental expedition, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to embark on an unforgettable bikepacking journey.

Choosing the Right Bike for Bikepacking

The foundation of any successful bikepacking adventure starts with selecting the appropriate bike for your intended terrain and style of riding.

Gravel and All-Road Bikes

Gravel bikes have become the versatile workhorses of the bikepacking world, offering a balance of efficiency on pavement and capability on rough surfaces. These bikes typically feature:

• Drop handlebars for multiple hand positions on long rides
• Generous tire clearance (usually 45-50mm)
• Mounting points for bags, bottles, and accessories
• Relaxed geometry for comfort during extended periods in the saddle

For routes that mix pavement, gravel roads, and moderate off-road sections, a gravel bike offers the ideal compromise between speed and off-road capability.

Hardtail Mountain Bikes

For more technical terrain and routes with significant singletrack, a hardtail mountain bike provides additional stability and control:

• Front suspension to absorb rough terrain
• Wide tire clearance (2.3" or greater)
• Lower gearing for steep climbs
• Flat handlebars for technical control

Many bikepackers prefer hardtails over full-suspension bikes for their simplicity, reliability, and greater frame space for bags.

Rigid Bikes

For simplicity and reliability on less technical routes, rigid bikes (without suspension) offer several advantages:

• Lighter weight
• No suspension to maintain
• More frame space for bags and water
• More efficient pedaling on smoother terrain

As bikepacking expert Erick Cedeño explains, "I ride a rigid for several reasons, one being that there's no suspension I have to worry about breaking."

E-Bikes and Their Growing Role

One significant trend in 2025 is the increasing adoption of e-bikes for bikepacking. These bikes extend the range and accessibility of bikepacking to more riders:

• Allow less-experienced riders to tackle challenging routes
• Enable carrying more supplies for remote expeditions
• Extend the age range of potential bikepackers

When using an e-bike for bikepacking, plan carefully around battery range and recharging opportunities. In remote areas, consider carrying a spare battery or solar charging equipment.

Essential Bikepacking Gear: The 2025 Ultralight Revolution

Bikepacking gear continues to evolve toward lighter, more compact, and more functional designs. Here's what's trending in 2025:

Bag Systems and Setup

The core of bikepacking gear is the bag system that attaches directly to your bike without racks. A complete setup typically includes:

Frame Bags

Modern frame bags maximize the main triangle space while maintaining water bottle access. Look for:

• Waterproof materials like X-Pac or DCF (Dyneema Composite Fabric)
• Internal organization pockets
• Water-resistant zippers
• Adjustable mounting systems

Handlebar Bags

These carry lightweight but bulky items like sleeping bags and clothing:

• Roll-top designs for variable capacity
• Stabilizing harnesses to minimize sway
• Quick-release mechanisms for easy removal
• Accessory pouches for small items

Seatpost Bags

These carry moderate-weight gear behind the rider:

• Anti-sway stabilization systems
• Waterproof construction
• Compression straps to secure loads
• Quick-release mounts

Top Tube Bags and Feed Bags

These smaller bags provide easy access to snacks, electronics, and essentials:

• Front top tube "bento" boxes
• Stem bags for water bottles or snacks
• Accessory pouches for tools and electronics

One major trend in 2025 is the growth of "vestpack" systems—frameless backpacks with running-vest style harnesses that combine with bikepacking bags for additional capacity.

Ultralight Camping Gear

The camping gear revolution has dramatically reduced the weight and bulk of overnight equipment:

Shelters

Modern bikepacking tents emphasize packability and ease of setup:

• The Big Agnes Bikepacking Series continues to lead with bike-specific features
• Zpacks Free Zip 2 offers ultralight freestanding functionality at under 2 pounds
• Durston X-Dome 2 features innovative carbon fiber poles that break down to 12" for easy packing

Many bikepackers also opt for minimalist tarps or bivies for the lightest possible sleep system.

Sleep Systems

When selecting sleeping gear, focus on compressibility and temperature rating:

• Ultralight quilts rather than full sleeping bags
• 1000-fill down insulation for maximum warmth-to-weight ratio
• Compact inflatable sleeping pads with higher R-values
• Inflator bags rather than built-in pumps to save weight

Cooking Equipment

For bikepacking kitchens, minimalism rules:

• Titanium pot sets that nest together
• Ultralight alcohol or canister stoves
• Foldable titanium sporks
• Silicone collapsible cups and bowls

Some bikepackers skip cooking equipment altogether, relying on cold-soaking or resupplying at towns along their route.

Clothing and Personal Items

Packing clothing for bikepacking requires ruthless efficiency:

• Merino wool base layers for multi-day wear without odor
• Quick-drying synthetic mid layers
• Ultralight rain gear (like the Rab Phantom at just 4oz)
• Convertible pants/shorts for versatility

One item gaining popularity in 2025 is the Alpha Direct thermal layer, which offers exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and packability.

Tools and Repair Kit

Mechanical self-sufficiency is crucial when riding remote routes:

• Multi-tool with chain breaker
• Tubeless repair kit
• Compact pump with pressure gauge
• Spare derailleur hanger
• Quick links for chain repair
• Zip ties and duct tape

Pack only tools specific to your bike's components—there's no need for a 15mm wrench if your bike uses thru-axles.

Water and Filtration Systems

Water management is often the most critical aspect of bikepacking:

• Multiple bottle cages and/or frame bag hydration systems
• Collapsible water containers for dry camps
• Compact water filters like the Sawyer Squeeze or HydraPak Breakaway Filter Bottle
• Water purification tablets as backup

Research water sources carefully before your trip and plan daily distances accordingly.

Route Planning and Navigation

Finding Established Routes

Several online resources have emerged as go-to platforms for discovering bikepacking routes:

• Bikepacking.com offers a curated global network of routes spanning 200,000 kilometers across nearly 50 countries
• Adventure Cycling Association provides meticulously researched routes with detailed maps and service information
• Local bike clubs and advocacy organizations often publish regional routes

For 2025, a growing trend is the "Local Overnighters Project" focusing on accessible one-night bikepacking trips close to urban areas, making the sport more accessible to time-constrained riders.

Creating Custom Routes

To design your own bikepacking adventure:

1. Choose a region based on terrain preferences, season, and accessibility
2. Research potential roads and trails using multiple map sources
3. Identify camping options (established campgrounds, dispersed camping areas, or lodging)
4. Locate water sources and resupply points
5. Plan realistic daily distances considering terrain and elevation

Navigation Tools and Apps

The digital tools for route planning and navigation have improved dramatically in 2025:

Route Planning Apps

Several standout apps for creating bikepacking routes include:

• Ride with GPS: The bikepacking community favorite offers powerful desktop planning tools and reliable offline navigation
• Komoot: Provides terrain-specific routing and excellent community-shared routes
• Gaia GPS: Offers detailed topographic maps and land-use overlays crucial for backcountry navigation

Offline Navigation

For reliable navigation away from cell service:

• Download map areas before your trip
• Carry a dedicated GPS device as backup
• Consider using a dynamo hub to power electronics on longer trips

Paper Backup

Despite technological advances, always carry paper maps or printed cue sheets as backup. They never run out of battery and provide crucial overview perspective that can be difficult on small screens.

Food and Water Strategies

Meal Planning

Nutrition planning for bikepacking requires balancing weight, packability, and calories:

• Aim for calorie-dense foods with minimal packaging
• Focus on foods requiring little or no cooking
• Plan for approximately 3,000-5,000 calories per day depending on terrain and distance

Popular bikepacking foods include:

• Dehydrated meals (commercial or homemade)
• Nut butters and tortillas
• Trail mix and energy bars
• Instant oatmeal and coffee
• Dried fruits and jerky

For longer trips, identify resupply points and plan meals between each stop.

Water Management

Proper hydration is critical for bikepacking success:

• Identify reliable water sources along your route
• Carry capacity appropriate for the distances between sources
• Filter or purify all natural water sources
• Consider carrying an electrolyte mix for hot weather

In arid regions, water availability may dictate your entire route and daily distances. Always err on the side of carrying extra water, especially in remote areas.

Physical Preparation and Training

Building Endurance

Prepare your body for the demands of multi-day riding:

• Gradually increase riding distance in the months before your trip
• Include back-to-back long rides to simulate consecutive days
• Practice riding with a loaded bike
• Incorporate hill training for mountainous routes

Skill Development

Technical skills can make or break a bikepacking adventure:

• Practice basic bike maintenance (fixing flats, adjusting derailleurs)
• Develop off-road riding skills if your route includes technical terrain
• Learn efficient riding techniques to conserve energy

Packing and Organization

Prior to your trip:

• Conduct a "shakedown ride" with all your gear
• Practice setting up and breaking down camp
• Develop a system for organizing your bags
• Test accessibility of frequently-needed items while riding

Popular Bikepacking Routes for 2025

North America

Several iconic routes have emerged as bikepacking classics:

• Great Divide Mountain Bike Route: The original bikepacking epic spanning 2,700 miles from Canada to Mexico
• Colorado Trail: 500+ miles of high-altitude singletrack adventure
• Oregon Timber Trail: A 670-mile backcountry route through diverse Oregon landscapes
• Arkansas High Country Route: A surprisingly challenging 1,200-mile loop through the Ozarks

Europe

Europe offers exceptional infrastructure and cultural experiences:

• Tuscany Trail: A stunning journey through Italian countryside and historic towns
• Badger Divide: Scotland's premier bikepacking route connecting Glasgow and Inverness
• Torino-Nice Rally: A challenging alpine route crossing between Italy and France
• Bohemian Border Bash: Exploring the rugged border regions of Czechia and Germany

Emerging Destinations

The bikepacking frontier continues to expand globally:

• Japan Odyssey: Exploring Japan's diverse landscapes and culture
• Chile's Carretera Austral: Patagonian adventure on gravel roads
• Atlas Mountain Race: Morocco's challenging route through remote mountains
• Taiwan Bike Packing Challenge: Circumnavigating the island's diverse terrain

Advanced Bikepacking Techniques

Ultralight Philosophy

Experienced bikepackers often follow these principles:

• Carry multi-purpose items whenever possible
• Eliminate redundancies and "just in case" items
• Choose lighter options for your "big three" (shelter, sleep system, bags)
• Analyze what you don't use after each trip and leave it behind next time

Bikepacking with Technology

Modern technology can enhance the bikepacking experience:

• Solar chargers for extended trips
• Compact battery packs for electronics
• Satellite communicators for emergency contact
• Smartphone apps for navigation, weather forecasting, and tracking

Bikepacking in Different Seasons

Extend your adventure calendar with season-specific techniques:

• Summer: Focus on hydration, sun protection, and lightweight gear
• Spring/Fall: Layer clothing systems and prepare for variable conditions
• Winter: Specialized insulated gear, vapor barrier techniques, and snow-specific tires

Responsible Bikepacking

Leave No Trace Principles

As bikepacking grows in popularity, practicing ethical outdoor principles becomes increasingly important:

• Pack out all trash (including food scraps)
• Camp on durable surfaces
• Respect trail closures and private property
• Minimize campfire impacts
• Follow local regulations for dispersed camping

Supporting Local Communities

Bikepacking offers opportunities to engage with small communities:

• Purchase supplies from local businesses
• Learn about the regions you're traveling through
• Respect cultural norms and practices
• Consider contributing to trail maintenance organizations

Getting Started: Your First Bikepacking Trip

For newcomers to bikepacking, follow these steps for a successful first adventure:

1. Start small: Choose a one-night trip close to home
2. Use familiar terrain: Stick to surfaces you're comfortable riding
3. Test your gear: Ensure everything works before heading out
4. Be flexible: Build in extra time and alternate plans
5. Connect with experienced bikepackers: Join local groups or online communities for advice

Remember that your first trip won't be perfect—view it as a learning experience for future adventures.

The Future of Bikepacking

As we look beyond 2025, several trends are shaping the future of bikepacking:

• Increased accessibility: More inclusive designs and approaches for riders of all abilities
• Sustainable practices: Emphasis on environmental responsibility and low-impact travel
• Technology integration: Smart navigation, augmented reality route guidance, and improved safety systems
• Community growth: Expansion of local bikepacking communities and knowledge sharing

Conclusion: The Journey Begins

Bikepacking represents more than just a way to travel by bicycle—it's a mindset that emphasizes self-sufficiency, connection with landscapes, and the joy of human-powered adventure. The simplicity of carrying everything you need on your bike offers a profound sense of freedom that resonates with riders seeking authentic experiences.

Whether you're drawn to the challenge of rugged mountain routes or the serenity of meandering gravel roads, bikepacking provides a unique perspective that can't be gained from behind a car window. The world unfolds at the perfect pace—fast enough to cover meaningful distance but slow enough to absorb the details.

As you prepare for your own bikepacking journey, remember that the best adventures often come from embracing the unexpected. Plan thoroughly, but leave room for discovery. The dirt roads, mountain passes, and riverside camps await.

Ready to start your bikepacking adventure? Check out our complete collection of bikepacking gear or explore our route guides for beginners.