What to Carry When Bike Commuting: Essentials and Extras

When it comes to what to carry when commuting by bicycle, I've gone through just about every stage over the years. From carrying practically nothing, to carrying way too much, to eventually figuring out what I actually need. I've been using bicycles as transportation for nearly 20 years, and I haven't always been the most prepared rider. Especially when I was younger, there were plenty of times when I'd just get on my bike and go. Sometimes I didn't even bring water, let alone tools or a spare tube.

I remember riding along the Santa Ana River Trail and getting so thirsty that I was almost tempted to drink from the river. Thankfully, I knew better, but looking back, I probably should have been a little more prepared. Over the years, I've learned that you don't necessarily need expensive equipment or a backpack full of gear to commute by bicycle. But carrying a few basic things can make a big difference, especially when something goes wrong. What you need also depends on how far you're riding, the weather, and where you're going. Someone commuting a couple of miles through town probably won't need everything that someone riding 15 or 20 miles might want to carry.

1. Water and Something to Eat

Water is one of the first things I'd recommend carrying, even if you're only planning a relatively short ride. How much you'll need depends on the distance, weather, and how hard you're riding. I haven't always followed that advice myself. When I was younger, I'd sometimes head out without any water and just figure out where to get some along the way. I used to stop at fast-food restaurants and ask for a cup of water, which I did quite often.

Another thing I've done for years is use the water vending machines outside grocery stores. Even if my bottles don't hold a full gallon, I can refill them, drink some water, and top them off again when the machine allows it. These days, I'd rather bring enough water in the first place, but knowing where you can refill is still useful, especially on longer rides. If you're commuting through an area with stores, parks, or drinking fountains, you might have plenty of opportunities to refill. But if you're taking a long bike path with few places to stop, you'll want to plan ahead. I've learned that lesson more than once.

I also like having something small to eat, depending on how far I'm going. It doesn't have to be anything fancy. A granola bar, sandwich, or whatever snack you normally enjoy can come in handy. For shorter rides, you might not need food at all. It really depends on your commute.

2. Basic Bicycle Tools

One thing I've learned from years of riding is that mechanical problems don't always happen close to home. I've had plenty of flats, broken chains, and other problems that resulted in some very long walks home. Sometimes I've been several miles away with no easy way to get my bike working again. That's why I'd recommend carrying at least a few basic tools.

A bicycle multitool with the Allen wrench sizes your bike uses is a good starting point. You don't necessarily need a huge tool kit, but you should have what you need to make basic adjustments. It's also important to know how your wheels come off. Some bikes have quick-release wheels, others use thru-axles, and older bikes may have axle nuts that require a wrench. If you need a specific tool to remove your wheel, make sure you have it with you.

Another useful thing to learn is how to put your chain back on if it comes off. I've had this happen plenty of times over the years, especially when riding BMX bikes. It's usually a simple fix, but it can be frustrating if you've never dealt with it before. The biggest thing I'd recommend, though, is learning how to fix a flat tire.

3. Carry What You Need to Fix a Flat

If there's one mechanical problem you should be prepared for when commuting by bicycle, it's a flat tire. I've had more flats than I could possibly count over the years. I've also had to walk some pretty long distances because I didn't have what I needed to fix one. At one point, I even tried stuffing a tire with leaves to see if I could keep riding. That didn't work very well!

For a bicycle with inner tubes, I'd recommend carrying a spare tube, tire levers, and something to inflate the tire with. A patch kit is also useful, especially if you get more than one flat. I've used both mini hand pumps and CO₂ inflators. Personally, I prefer CO₂ because it's much faster and easier than spending several minutes pumping up a tire with a tiny hand pump. However, CO₂ cartridges are single-use, so a small hand pump has the advantage of being reusable. Both have their place.

I've also used old inner tubes as homemade tire liners for years. I cut off the valve stem, split the tube down the middle, and place it inside the tire as an extra layer. It's something I've done on my own bikes, although it needs to be installed carefully to avoid creating additional problems. Tubeless tires are another option, but I still prefer using tubes on my bikes. Whatever setup you use, make sure you know how to handle a flat before you're stranded somewhere. And don't just carry the tools. Practice changing a tube at home so you know what you're doing when it happens on the road.

4. A Backpack or Another Way to Carry Everything

For most of my life, I've carried my things in a backpack. I've used just about every kind imaginable, from cheap backpacks bought at discount stores to thrift-store finds and name-brand bags from companies like Dakine, OGIO, Hurley, and JanSport. I've also used mountain biking backpacks. I remember buying a bright green backpack from a little discount store for around three dollars because that's what I could afford at the time. It wasn't anything special, but it carried my stuff.

After going through so many backpacks over the years, one of the biggest problems I've noticed is zippers wearing out or breaking. Seams can also start coming apart, especially when you're constantly stuffing a backpack as full as possible, which I've been guilty of doing plenty of times. A good backpack doesn't necessarily have to be expensive, but I'd pay attention to the zippers, stitching, shoulder straps, and how comfortable it feels when loaded.

One thing to consider is how much weight you're carrying on your back. For shorter commutes, a backpack might be all you need. But if you're carrying groceries, work supplies, or heavier items regularly, a rear rack and panniers might be more comfortable. You don't have to buy a complete commuter setup right away. Start with what you have and figure out what works for your riding.

5. Clothing and Weather Protection

What clothing you carry depends a lot on the time of year and where you're going. I like dressing in layers when it's cold, but that also means having somewhere to put extra clothing when you warm up. A backpack makes this easier because you can take off a jacket or sweater and store it instead of being stuck wearing it for the entire ride.

I'd also recommend wearing a helmet and considering eye protection. Glasses can help keep dust, bugs, and other debris out of your eyes. If you're commuting to work, having a change of clothes can be useful, especially if you're riding a longer distance or expect to get sweaty. Extra socks are another thing I think are worth carrying. They don't take up much room, and having dry socks can make a big difference if your feet get wet.

During the rainy season, I'd consider bringing dry clothes if you're heading somewhere you need to be presentable or comfortable for several hours. You don't necessarily need expensive cycling-specific clothing, either. I've spent years riding in regular clothes, jackets, and shoes. The important thing is dressing appropriately for the conditions and having somewhere to store what you aren't wearing.

6. Ziploc Bags for Rain and Wet Weather

This is one of those inexpensive things I've carried for years that I think more bicycle commuters should consider. I like keeping a few resealable plastic bags in my backpack, usually quart-sized and gallon-sized bags. They weigh practically nothing, take up very little space, and can be extremely useful when it starts raining unexpectedly.

If you've ever been caught in the rain while riding, you know how quickly everything can get wet. Having a plastic bag to put your phone, wallet, paperwork, or other items in can help protect them from water. I especially like carrying these during the rainy season, but they're useful year-round. Just make sure they're sealed properly, and remember they aren't a substitute for a fully waterproof case if something absolutely needs to stay dry.

You don't need to spend a lot of money on specialized waterproof storage for every little item. Sometimes a simple plastic bag does the job.

7. A Little Emergency Money

Something I like to carry is a little extra cash, especially a few one-dollar bills or some change. Since I've spent so many years combining bicycles with buses and other public transportation, having a little money set aside for a ride home can be useful. Maybe your bike breaks down, the weather gets worse than expected, or you're simply too tired to ride the entire way back.

If public transportation is available and allows bicycles, having another way home can make a big difference. Of course, not every transit system accepts cash, so it's worth knowing how your local buses or trains handle fares. I've learned from experience that being stuck miles from home with a broken bicycle isn't much fun. Even if you don't normally take public transportation, knowing your options is a good idea.

8. A Few Other Small Items

There are a few other things I like having with me that don't necessarily fall into the usual bicycle commuting checklist. One is a small amount of duct tape. You don't need to carry an entire roll. I've wrapped a little around a lighter or another small object so it's there if I need it. Duct tape can sometimes help with temporary fixes, although it isn't a replacement for properly repairing damaged bicycle parts.

I also generally carry a knife or small cutting tool. It's useful for all kinds of everyday tasks, including cutting tape, cord, or other materials. Just make sure it's carried safely and complies with local laws. A phone is another useful thing to have, especially for navigation, contacting someone, or finding public transportation if your plans change.

And, of course, don't forget your bike lock if you'll be leaving your bicycle unattended. For years, I used to carry my lock hanging from my handlebars. These days, I'd recommend securing it properly so it can't swing into the wheel, interfere with steering, or cause problems while riding. Depending on where you're going, you might also want your wallet, identification, keys, and anything else you normally need throughout the day.

9. You Don't Need to Carry Everything on Every Ride

One thing I want to emphasize is that you don't need to bring every possible piece of equipment whenever you get on your bicycle. I've gone from carrying almost nothing to carrying way too much, and eventually I've learned to adjust what I bring depending on the ride.

If I'm only going a couple of miles to a store, I might not need nearly as much as I would for a long ride across town. If I'm riding somewhere with limited access to water, I'll want to bring more. If rain is expected, I'll think about extra clothing and protecting my belongings. The condition of your bicycle matters, too. Keeping your tires, chain, brakes, and other components maintained can help prevent some problems before they happen.

And you don't have to buy everything at once. If you're just starting to commute by bicycle, begin with the basics and gradually add things as you figure out what you actually need.

Final Thoughts

After nearly 20 years of using bicycles for transportation, I've learned that being prepared can save you a lot of frustration. I've had plenty of times when I wished I'd brought more water, carried a spare tube, or had a better way to get home after something broke. But I've also learned that bicycle commuting doesn't require a bunch of expensive equipment.

A backpack, water, a few basic tools, flat-repair supplies, and some inexpensive extras can go a long way. The most important thing is figuring out what works for your particular commute. Your needs might be completely different from mine depending on your distance, weather, bicycle, and where you live.

Start with what you have, learn a few basic repairs, and adjust your setup as you gain experience. You don't need the perfect bicycle or the perfect equipment to start using a bike for transportation. But a little preparation can make the experience a whole lot easier.