Common Problems While Bikepacking (With Solutions)

Bikepacking is a rewarding way to explore the world, blending the freedom of cycling with the adventure of camping. But even the best-planned trips can come with challenges, from mechanical issues to unpredictable weather. The key to a successful journey isn’t avoiding problems altogether, it’s knowing how to handle them when they arise. Here’s a practical guide to tackling the most common bikepacking problems so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

COMMON BIKEPACKING PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS

#1 FLAT TIRES

❌ The Problem: Carrying too much weight on your bike can make pedaling more difficult, slow you down, and lead to exhaustion over long distances. Overpacking is a common mistake for bikepackers, especially for those new to the sport.

✅ The Solution: Keep your packing as light as possible by focusing on the essentials. Prioritize gear that can serve multiple purposes to save space and weight. Before your trip, do a test ride with your packed bike to check comfort and balance. Regularly review your packing list to ensure you’re only carrying what’s necessary. Remember, you want to focus on comfort and efficiency, not on carrying extra weight.

#2 SADDLE SORENESS

❌ The Problem: Saddle soreness is a common issue for bikepackers, especially when riding long distances. A sore rear end can make your trip uncomfortable, if not unbearable.

✅ The Solution: Invest in a quality saddle designed for long rides, and make sure it’s properly adjusted. Wearing padded shorts can also help alleviate some discomfort. If you start to feel soreness, try to adjust your riding position, and take breaks to relieve pressure. Also, use chamois cream to reduce friction and avoid chafing.

#3 NAVIGATION CHALLENGES

❌ The Problem: Getting lost is a nightmare when you’re out on the trails with limited resources. Even if you have a map or GPS, poor signal reception or missing landmarks can make navigation challenging.

✅ The Solution: Always carry both a physical map and a reliable GPS device. Download offline maps in advance in case you lose service. Familiarize yourself with your route before starting, and take note of key landmarks and waypoints. If you do get lost, retracing your steps is often the quickest way back on track.

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#4 OVERPACKING

❌ The Problem: A common mistake for beginners and even experienced bikepackers is overpacking. While it’s tempting to carry extra gear for comfort, carrying too much weight can make pedaling more difficult and slow you down. This is a classic problem bikepacking enthusiasts encounter.

✅ The Solution: Keep your packing as light as possible. Stick to essentials like a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, and multi-purpose tools. Test your setup with a short ride before your trip to check comfort and balance. Make sure every item has a function—if something is redundant or unnecessary, leave it behind.

#5 INSUFFICIENT FOOD AND WATER

❌ The Problem: Running out of food or water is one of the worst problems bikepacking. Whether you misjudged the distances between resupply points or didn’t pack enough, being unprepared can leave you in a tough spot.

✅ The Solution: Plan your route carefully to ensure you’ll have access to water and food along the way. Bring a water filter or purification tablets if you’re venturing into remote areas. Pack enough food for the entire trip, but try to keep it lightweight, such as dehydrated meals or energy bars. Also, bring extra snacks for emergencies.

#6 WEATHER CONDITIONS

❌ The Problem: Unpredictable weather is another common problem bikepacking. You could be caught in a rainstorm or face extreme heat, both of which can affect your comfort and safety on the trail.

✅ The Solution: Check the weather forecast before heading out and pack accordingly. Bring waterproof gear, such as a rain jacket, and ensure your sleeping bag and tent are suitable for the conditions. In hot weather, wear light clothing and carry plenty of water to stay hydrated. Always be prepared for sudden changes in weather, especially if you’re riding in mountain areas where conditions can shift quickly.

#7 LACK OF MAINTENANCE

❌ The Problem: Bike maintenance is often overlooked before a bikepacking trip. Simple issues like a loose chain, dirty drivetrain, or improperly adjusted brakes can cause problems bikepacking if they aren’t addressed beforehand.

✅ The Solution: Before your trip, thoroughly inspect and maintain your bike. Check the brakes, gears, tires, and suspension, and make sure everything is in good working order. Lubricate the chain, tighten any loose bolts, and replace worn parts if necessary. Regular bike maintenance will help prevent problems while you’re on the trail.

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#8 PHYSICAL EXHAUSTION

❌ The Problem: Bikepacking is physically demanding, and it’s not uncommon to experience exhaustion, especially on multi-day trips. Pushing yourself too hard without proper rest or recovery can lead to fatigue and injuries.

✅ The Solution: Listen to your body and pace yourself. Take regular breaks to rest and refuel. Make sure you’re eating enough and drinking plenty of water. Plan your trip so that you have sufficient rest days, especially for longer journeys. Stretching before and after riding will also help prevent muscle tightness.

#9 INJURIES

❌ The Problem: Bikepacking on rugged terrain comes with the risk of falls and injuries. Even minor injuries can be difficult to manage when you’re far from help.

✅ The Solution: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and pain relievers. You can even bring a lightweight splint for more serious injuries. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures for cuts, sprains, and other common injuries. Always wear a helmet and gloves to protect yourself from head injuries and abrasions.

#10 EXCESSIVE EXPECTATIONS

❌ The Problem: Having unrealistic expectations about your bikepacking abilities, the difficulty of the route, or how much ground you can cover each day can lead to disappointment and frustration.

✅ The Solution: Be honest with yourself about your fitness level and experience. Start with shorter, easier routes and gradually build up to more challenging ones as your skills and endurance improve. Set realistic goals for each day’s ride, factoring in time for breaks, navigation, and unexpected challenges. Bikepacking is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about completing the route.

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WRAPPING UP

Bikepacking offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and adventure, but it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that come with it. By knowing how to handle common issues like flat tires, saddle soreness, navigation challenges, and unpredictable weather, you can ensure your trip remains enjoyable and rewarding.

Remember, preparation is key, whether it’s packing light, maintaining your bike, or managing your energy levels. With the right approach and mindset, you’ll be ready to tackle any obstacle and fully embrace the freedom and excitement that bikepacking brings. Happy trails!