I’ve been traveling a lot for work lately (hence the lack of posts) but it doesn’t mean I haven’t been riding.  I have found some great (and not so great) rental shops in almost all of my destinations.  In most places, I was able to rent decent quality bikes, but the ride is just not the same without some of my own “essential” equipment. Even when I was lucky enough to borrow some high end bikes, they still don’t feel right without my own gear.  I always made room in my luggage, because bringing my own stuff really enhanced the ride of the rental bikes.  Getting the chance to explore a new set of trails is not something I get to do very often and it is a great experience, getting to see what other people ride as their “local trails”.  Often times I am envious and some times it helps me appreciate my local trails that much more.

Depending on the length of the trip and what luggage I’m bringing, I try to bring the following things, in order of importance:

1. Shoes and pedals.  If you ride with clipless pedals, and have been for a long time, it is wise to bring your shoes and pedals.  I found nearly all of the rental places I came across did not rent shoes for clipless pedals, and the one that did have a different brand (less float) than what I was used to.
2. Shorts.  And if you can, saddle.  My padded shorts have become an essential part of my riding gear and I hate riding without them.  I came across some pretty horrific stock saddles and was thankful for my chamois.  I have never brought my saddle, but it just occurred to me how easy it is to swap a saddle and it wouldn’t take much packing space.
3. Gloves. I do not like riding without my gloves.  If you always ride with gloves, try a ride without putting them to see if you can ride without them.  I’ll ride my commuter without gloves, but I like the grips on it.  You never know what kind of grips and how worn out they’ll be on a borrowed bike.
4. Jersey. Most of my travels have been to warmer climates than I’m used to and sweating in cotton is never fun.
5. Helmet.  Helmets are big, bulky and awkward and I’d recommend bringing it with you as carry-on.  I’d rather have my own stinky helmet, than a communal stinky helmet.
6. Tools and Seatbag or Camelbak.  Rental shops generally do not have tool kits for rent.  having your own tools and pump is much better than no tools at all.
7. Hydration.  Rental bikes may or may not have water bottle cages.  Bring a bottle and a cage or your Camelbak.  If you have neither, a bottle of water or a sports drink will fit in a jersey pocket.

With the exception of your helmet, these items will not take up too much space in your luggage, unless you are traveling light.

The best option, of course, is to bring your bike. For short trips, it can be a lot of hassle and potential for bike damage, without an expensive travel case.  A folding bike can usually pass for a second piece of luggage and is a lot easier to manage when traveling (click the picture above to see the Dahon Flo).