Want to know what to bring mountain biking? Use this trail checklist to tick off the basics for a few hours of riding. If you’re going for a longer rip, pad your kit with extra items to cover minor fixes farther from the trailhead.
Use common sense – for remote areas (or any trails where hike-a-biking out would be more painful than usual), start with the 10 essentials checklist and build your mountain bike kit from there.
Mountain bike gear essentials
Water or energy drink
Energy bars and food
Trail app, map or guidebook
Repair kit items for every ride
Bike multi-tool with Allen keys. Some also have chain tools, spoke wrenches, Torx drivers, and flatheads and Phillips screwdrivers built in.
Spare tube, even if you’re tubeless (bring 2 if you’re planning to be out for a while)
Additional repair items for longer rides
Chain tool (if it’s not on a multi-tool)
Master chain link, like a PowerLink or Quick Link
Zip ties
Duct tape (mini roll)
Derailleur hanger and mounting bolts
Big backcountry epics are beyond the scope of this checklist, and you’ll want to be totally self-sufficient for those
Clothing and armour
Bike shorts with or without padded liner shorts
Lightweight packable shell and extra layers
Eye protection/sunglasses
Personal and safety stuff
Phone, plus a portable charger in waterproof case
Bike light or headlamp in case a mechanical leaves you out after sunset
ID and cash (a $5 bill can also be used as a temporary patch for a sidewall slash)
GoPro or camera (optional)
Change of clothes, a towel and cold drinks stashed in your car for post-ride
