Light is right

Overloaded for sure, and this didn't end well.

When it comes to packing for a bike tour, lighter is usually better, because the less weight you have to haul, the easier it will be for you to pedal up all those hills.

If you own a basic backpacking gear set-up, you’ll already have much of the stuff you’ll need for bike touring. 

If your backpacking gear is dated, consider upgrading to the lightest versions of those items that you can afford. You may be able to cut several pounds from your overall load, for instance, by switching to ultralight versions of the camping basics: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and jacket.

When it comes to clothing, think basics and layering. Don’t forget the rain gear but leave the redundant items and frills behind.

I prefer to cook during my own rides so usually pack a lightweight camp stove, fuel, and a small titanium pot. Some bike-packers limit their trail diets to uncooked foods so they can leave the cooking gear behind.

There are a host of other weight-saving ideas to consider, including substituting recycled Smart Water bottles for the heavier and more expensive Nalgene ones, and using Tyvek home wrap or a Mylar space blanket instead of the heavier nylon ground covers generally used to protect the floors of tents.

Some of these ideas won’t make much difference individually. But all those little weight-savings add up.

Food and water will add to your load. But it’s a good idea to carry more of both than you expect to need in case you are delayed by weather or for some other reason.

You also will need to pack—and know how to use—a tire pump, patch kit and other basic bicycle tools. If you don’t know how to change a tire or do other routine bike repairs, learn how before you hit the road. Many bicycle shops offer courses on the subject.

Every touring cyclist should generate a customized packing list, to ensure that medications and other important items are not forgotten.

Here’s a comprehensive gear list you can use to design your own: https://www.adventurecycling.org/inquiry-forms/get-your-map-catalog/bike-touring-gear-list/.

Check here for additional tips about reducing your load: https://bikepacking.com/gear/josh-kato-tour-divide-pack-list/.

Virtually everybody brings too much stuff along on their first tours. Fortunately, there are plenty of post offices for shipping the deadweight home.

Don’t forget the essentials, but you’ll be a lot happier if you leave the excess behind.