7 Tips to Master Packing Your Fanny Pack for MTB

fanny pack gear nutrition tools

How to Shove All Your Necessities into a Tiny Bag.

Ready to take your biking knowledge to a new level of mastery by knowing how to pack your hip pack or backpack? Because, let's face it, to increase your success on a mountain bike ride, you may need more than what you're wearing and what can fit in your pockets (COUGH). Efficient packing, focusing on the essentials, and keeping it light is the key to preparing for any length of ride. It's not just about being ready for yourself but also about being equipped to help others on the trail.

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Whether you prefer the low-sitting convenience of a hip pack, the spacious allure of a backpack, or the sleek functionality of a frame bag - mastering the art of packing can improve your riding confidence when you know you’re prepared.

>> A quick side note: When selecting your bag, prioritize features like adjustable straps, convenient loops, water bottle pockets, waterproof compartments, reflective strips, and a breathable mesh backing. The tiniest of engineering with these bags helps you maximize your setup and preparedness. We love Dakine and Osprey!

Okay! Let's dive into essential tips for preparing your bike bag like a pro, ensuring it's as ready for the trails as you are.

1. Essential Tools:

Being prepared for unexpected mechanical issues ensures you spend more time on the trail and less time troubleshooting. Even if you don’t use your tools on a ride, you might be able to help someone else out, which is the best trail karma. ✨

Multi-tool: A compact tool that includes various wrenches, screwdrivers, and a chain breaker.
Tire levers: To help remove the tire from the rim. Carry 2.
Spare inner tube: In case of a flat tire.
Hand Pump or CO2 inflator: For inflating tires after repair.
Plug kit: For plugging larger wholes or gashes in your tubeless tires

2. Nutrition and Hydration:

Keep your energy high with trail-friendly snacks like energy bars, gels, and electrolyte tablets. A water bladder or water bottles with easy access make staying hydrated a breeze. Consider a backpack or fanny pack with a water bladder with magnetic hoses for hands-free sipping during rides. Here's a quick list of ideas of high-density, calorie-packed items to carry on rides:

Energy Bars
Trail Mix
Dried Fruit
Nut Butter Packets
Energy Gels
Jerky
Bars of any kind (fig, granola, fruit, protein, meat, etc)
Rice Cakes
Homemade Energy Bites
Pretzels
Fruit gummy snacks
Hydration Mix or Electrolyte Tablets

3. First Aid Kit:

Safety first! Pack a compact first aid kit with basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. It's your insurance for tackling minor scrapes and bruises while keeping you on the trail.

Pro top: I throw tweezers, rubber bands, and zip ties in as well.

4: On-board Organization:

Invest in frame bag to keep your essentials organized and easily accessible on your bike. Use small ziplock bags to keep items like snacks, band aids, and tools separate, preventing a jumble in your bag.

5. Weather-Ready Gear:

Depending on the size of your pack, consider (after viewing an ambiguous forecast) a lightweight and packable rain jacket. For sunny days, pack travel size sunscreen to shield yourself from the long sun exposure. A versatile neck gaiter or bandana can serve multiple purposes, from sun protection to an impromptu face mask.

6. Navigation & Trail Guides:

Don't get lost in the thrill! Bring along a reliable GPS device or smartphone mount to keep track of your route. Download trail maps in advance or use navigation apps tailored for mountain biking adventures.

We 🩷 Trail Forks and MTB project. Check your regional apps as well, like COTREX in Colorado.

7: ID and Phone:

Bring along your license (especially if there are post-ride beers) and your phone (trail guide!). Consider a waterproof phone case or screen cover for added protection. But if you’ve ever owned a phone. . . you already know this.

Mastering the art of packing your bike bag ensures you're ready for anything the trail throws your way. From essential tools to weather-ready gear, clever organization, and additional tips, these insights will have you hitting the trails with confidence and style.

Happy packing. XOX