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Carry Less. Multipurpose More. 

You don’t have to be a weight weenie to understand that less is often more. During my first ultra-endurance mountain bike race in 2013, I carried far too much gear. I packed for my fears by throwing extra gear into my loaded bags at the last minute. It resulted in pounds of extra weight and over-stuffed gear bags. I paid for my mistake over a six-day slog along the Colorado Trail. Since that learning experience, and several others, I’ve had a chance to refine my gear, minimizing weight and using gear that can fill several needs. 

Clothing is a great example. Every piece of clothing I take with me on multiday trips has multiple purposes. Here’s my multiday clothing list:

I use every piece of clothing on this list, and I don’t take any extras.

There is a base layer, an insulation layer (or sometimes 2), and a waterproof layer. Base layers are always on while I’m riding and always off (and drying out) when I’m sleeping. All layers are used in the coldest conditions, and the insulation layer can be removed in wet, warm conditions. My waterproof glove shells are big enough to be worn over the top of my riding gloves, allowing for warmth and water protection.

I wear any combination of clothing to match the conditions. When I stop to sleep, I can wear rain gear or mid layers while my cycling kit dries out. I don’t take any extra clothing, but I have no problem stopping at a stream during the day to wash clothes out and let them dry as I ride. In fact, it makes for a nice break during the warmth of the day.

The key is to take as little as you can to be safe and comfortable.

Try to find pieces of gear that can be multipurposed. Pay attention to what you use and what you don’t. If you pack a non-essential piece of gear on several trips, and don’t use it, then it’s time to consider whether it should be removed from your list.

Further, consider trying a trip without a nonessential piece of gear. Find out if you can live without it.

One master bikepacking gear guide does not fit everyone’s idea of success or fun, but you can ride further and faster with less weight and bulk. In my opinion, this means that you can see more of the vast, remote, beautiful backcountry and have more fun doing it.

Less is more.

Ride on!

- Ty Hopkins