It is a dream for many:  to set off on an adventure, with only the clothes on their back.  Or maybe a change of socks and underwear.  And a helmet.  Other than that, it’s just you and the open road.  Cross-country biking is exhilarating and allows you to see the sights from a different perspective.  Instead of zipping by and having the scenery fly by, you can take the time to actually see the city streets, house-lined suburbs, or tree-lined dirt roads.  The great thing about this type of bicycling is that it is much easier to get started than you would think. 

Cross-country biking is the most common form of cycling; in fact, whenever you hop on your bike and just go, that is exactly what you’re doing.  It could be a few miles from your house, your daily work commute, or a tour across the United States.  How far you go determines what bicycle gear you will require.  For instance, if you are just biking a few miles from home, you just need a good helmet and perhaps a bottle of water.  For those undertaking longer treks, the equipment will be more advanced.  Here are some essentials for long journeys:

Touring Bike.  You can use virtually any type of bike, but if you are planning on long distances, a touring bike will be much better suited for the job.  Touring bikes are designed with both performance and comfort in mind.  Touring bikes are usually priced starting at $1200, though you can find less expensive models if you are doing shorter trips. 

Take the time to know your bike before you set out.  Chances are you know the basics, like where your chain and pedals are, but touring bikes are quite a bit more complex.  Do you know where the rear derailleur is?  Or what it does?  Or why it’s important?  You need this to move the chain between rear sprockets.  Everything needs to work in concert so your gears work right.  Before planning any trip, learn the parts of your bike so you can fix problems when they occur – or hopefully, keep them from occurring at all.

Gloves.  Your hands are actively involved in cross-country biking every step of the way, and for long trips, you’ll need gloves to make sure they are protected and comfortable.  You should take only the clothing you need and leave the rest at home.  You don’t want it weighing you down.  Lightweight clothing, if possible, is the best.

Tools.  Just like a car, a bike will need repairs from time to time, especially on a rigorous cross-country tour.  Make sure you bring a hand pump, patch kit, a tube for every 500 miles, allen wrenches, chain lube, derailleur and brake cables, pliers, extra spokes, and a spoke wrench.  Reflective vests, bike lights, and a Camelpak are also nice to have.  Depending on how far you are going, you will need additional supplies, such as a credit card, camping supplies, and food.  Remember to go light and take only what you need for your trip.  If you are going across the country, you will need a rack and pannier or a trailer. 

Cyclocomputer with GPS.  A cyclocomputer can log your miles, give you elevation profiles, and much more.  Many models are GPS-equipped.  This allows you to program in your routes, get directions, or find your way back to the trail if you get lost.  This is great when you are traveling very long distances.  A phone is also a good addition to your pack. 

Water.  Stay hydrated, especially on hot days.  Don’t wait until you feel thirsty.  Sip water when you can so you have sufficient energy for your ride. 

Spirit of Adventure.  Don’t forget this.  It’s an essential for any cross-country biker.  Get out and see the world from a different perspective; take the long way home; try a new route.  This type of biking is about seeing the land and having fun.  Make the most of every trip by having the right equipment and the right attitude! 

To learn more about your gear options before you go, like how to find the right bicycle seats to meet your needs, click here.

Read the next Bicycle Components article on Bicycle Seats:  Can You Ride for Hours in Comfort? Bicycle Seats:  Can You Ride for Hours in Comfort?