For the Weekend

The WAM Packing List.

Packing for WAM is part-art, part-science. Here's what veteran riders bring — split into definitely-needed and luxuries you'll thank yourself for.

Food & Nutrition

Definitely Needed

  • Granola bars / dry snacks for the road
  • Water — fill at every stop, don't rely on finding it

Nice to Have

  • Energy gels (Gu or similar) — grab several per day
  • Electrolyte mix or tablets (Nuun, Liquid IV, etc.)
  • Snacks for after the ride (food/snacks are provided but extras never hurt)
  • Candy — a crowd favorite on long days

Body & Health

Definitely Needed

  • Sunscreen
  • Any personal medications
  • Hand sanitizer

Nice to Have

  • Chamois butter — apply liberally, reapply often
  • Ibuprofen or your pain reliever of choice
  • Bug spray — overnight spots can be buggy
  • Massage gun

Clothing & Gear

Definitely Needed

  • Jersey
  • Socks
  • Helmet
  • Gloves
  • Shoes
  • Light jacket or wind vest

Nice to Have

  • Bibs / padded shorts — bring at least 2 pairs
  • Clip-in pedals — optional but strongly recommended for 300+ miles

Bike & Saddle Bag

Definitely Needed

  • Bike
  • 2 water bottle cages + 2 water bottles
  • Front and rear lights

Nice to Have

Sags and bike mechanics ride the route — you'll be covered if you're missing something, but carrying your own kit is always better.

  • Pre-ride tune-up
  • Saddle bag
  • Spare inner tubes (2+)
  • Plastic tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • Multi-tool with Allen keys and chain breaker
  • Portable tire pump or CO2 cartridges
  • Bike computer (speed, mileage, route info)

Technology

Definitely Needed

  • Phone + wall charger
  • Portable battery bank — outlets aren't always close

Nice to Have

  • Headphones
  • Bluetooth speaker

Overnight & Off-Bike

Definitely Needed

  • Large suitcase — easy to dig through quickly at overnight stops
  • Air mattress or sleeping pad
  • Pillow
  • Blankets or sleeping bag
  • Socks + underwear (multiple sets)
  • Comfy clothes — hoodie, sweatpants, long sleeve
  • Sneakers / tennis shoes
  • Flip flops / shower shoes
  • Dirty clothes bag
  • Shower bag — shampoo, body wash, toothbrush/paste, deodorant
  • Contacts / glasses
  • Towel
  • Credit card + ID
  • Car keys (know where your car will be)

Nice to Have

  • Tent — some overnight spots are outside

Ready to upgrade your kit? We pulled together a no-affiliate-link gear page with picks from the team.

See Gear Recommendations →