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Once you get your bike,...
... you need the following items. This is just a basic list, there are
some websites where you can find al the advanced information and packing
detailles specific for your trip. (See the favorites on the left)
 Spare
tubes
At least a patch kit, tire levers and a pump should be carried
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Water
bottles
The best bottles are actually the 1.5ltr softdrink/water bottles. Fit
in the easy access holder, and contains more water than the regular
gatorade bottle. A camel-back is a good alternative, they also come
in hip-belt versions. Per day a minimum of 4ltrs of water is required,
more if it is really hot. For week long trips, always remember to keep
the salt level up to avoid nasty situations.
Plug
The voltage system is different, you need an adaptor, you can buy this
on schiphol airport.
Money
and identification in a waterproof
document bag
Always have some money with you for an emergency call, or a snack at
the end of the day. An ID card or passport is needed in case of an accident.
Tool
kit
A minimum tool kit contains a spanner (size corresponds to your bolts),
an adjustable spanner, a screw driver, a knife and a pair of plyers.
A multitool for the hexbolts. A Leatherman is also extremely handy.
Add chain oil and duct tape for temporary repairs
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Energy
food, drinks or gels
Nuts, dried fruit and raisins are high energy food. Keep some handy
to avoid a dip when you just have to push that little extra before nightfall.
Do not fall in the trap called: energy bars and drinks. There is so
much suger in it your theeth will be black by the time you get home.
Drink the pure water and eat for extra energy sultana's and other dried
fruits. Remember the USA is much more expensive than Europe, take some
goodies with you from the supermarket before you leave.
Rain
gear
Better a little wet from the inside, than a lot wet from the outside.
Goretex is nice, but an ordinary rain jacket and pants are also functional.
If the wind gets cold - put on this extra layer! There are good rainprotecters
for your over your shoes as well. Buy the sturdy once because you are
probably WALKING when you wair them.
Sunscreen
and Mosquito repellant
In summer weather, use SPF 15 or 30 (sunblock) to avoid sun-burn.
Also cheaper to take from europe than to buy in the USA. Mosquito repellant
can be put on your long sleeves if you don't like deet in direct skin
contact. Do not forget your bumb because the muzzies love juicy flesh!
Bike
computer
Get one, not only do you get to know the max speed in the downhills,
but the whole planning of a trip is a lot easier with a bike computer.
Even the Euro 10,- is working perfectly fine. But calibrate it! We used
two one for the millage and one for the kilometers. (it is about time
for the US to go orer to the metric system)
Plastic
bags
If you pack your clothes in plastic bags handling is a lot easier. Also
forms a second barrier in the rain - especially if your saddle bags
are just of the canvas type. Take a few extra with you for unforeseen
things on the way. Put your pasport and other inportent stuff also in
a watertight or plastic bag.
Rope
Good for making washlines. An extra elastic can also be used to fix
stuff to your bicycle tour.
Compass
Learn how to read the map and recognise mountains and other features
- with or without the compass. For cycling maps should have a scale
of 1:100000 or better.
Camping stove
A lot of people use propane gas, with the Trangia you have a whole
set of pans and can use any fuel you like. Best is Methanol or ethanol
- that burns cleaner so the pans don't go black. Make sure you have
something to do the dishes with.
Torch and Candles
Torch for going to bed, reading in the tent and finding things at
the sun set. Candles saves batteries, but avoid using it inside the
tent.
First Aid kit
Whether you're day hiking or undertaking an extended backcountry
adventure, always equip yourself with a first-aid
kit (Dutch). Minor scrapes, cuts, a bee sting or a headache can
happen anywhere, anytime. It pays to be prepared.
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