Gear Report

Gear Report

Iceland, with its rugged and otherworldly landscapes, is a dream destination for adventure seekers. The Land of Fire and Ice offers a perfect canvas for bikepackers, a place where you can forge your own path through the untouched wilderness, tracing your way through volcanic terrain and glacial rivers. 

Preparing for a bikepacking adventure through the rugged terrain of Iceland is a true art form, demanding mastery in the skill of leaving most of your possessions behind.

Let’s be honest, even the most optimistic rider will inevitably face inclement weather, and when the elements unleash their fury, waterproof gear becomes an absolute monarch!

When you distill the essence of packing for an Icelandic expedition, it’s about realizing that you don’t need the entirety of your possessions for it to become an incredible voyage. That’s one of the most beautiful revelations of bikepacking – realising how little is needed.

Remember, simplicity is key. Bring items that serve a specific purpose to avoid redundant gear. Iceland’s beauty is enough of a distraction; you don’t need a cluttered bag to weigh you down. Pack smart, and you’ll be well on your way to conquering the land of fire and ice on two wheels.

Nonetheless, in our experienced opinion, there are some “must-have” items that you should pack to ensure a triumphant journey through the captivating landscapes of Iceland.

Essential Cycling Gear à la TheBikepack

This is our take on what to bring and what to leave home, we hope this will help you on your way to adventures!

1. The bike and the bags

– Your trusty steed and the bags, together they’ll carry you through more drama than an Icelandic saga!

Bikes: When it comes to choosing the right bicycle for your Icelandic adventure, think rugged and reliable. Iceland’s terrain can be as unpredictable as its weather, so a sturdy and well-maintained bike is your best companion.

We brought two Orbea Alma bikes, hard-tail rugged MTB’s. The perfect bicycle for conquering the unique challenges of crossing Iceland on two wheels. Its exceptional features and performance make it an outstanding choice for our epic adventure.

The Alma is a full out carbon fiber monster sporting a lightweight but sturdy build. A perfect companion in the steep climbs and the rocky and shaky accents. A durable workhorse with responsible handling and a comfortable yet sporty geometry. This is a “go fast all day” kind of bike if the terrain allows for it. A stranger at first but a dear friend by the end of the trip and a bike we would share any future adventure with!

Check out more about the Alma bike here –> Link

Bags: When selecting bikepacking bags, prioritize waterproof options. The ever-changing Icelandic weather can test even the most optimistic travelers, so keeping your gear dry is a game-changer. Opt for lightweight gear to minimize the weight you carry and make those challenging ascents a little easier.

We teamed up with our friends at Tailfin cycling who are absolute pro’s at technical bikepacking equipment. They did not shy away from the challenge of joining us on our Iceland divide adventure.

Why we love the Tailfin’s Gear – Tailfin’s gear isn’t just a random collection of cycling equipment; it’s an integrated system designed to work seamlessly together. The Tailfin Aeropack Carbon Seat Pack complements the Ultra-Durable Pannier Bag and Downtube Packs, creating a unified setup that’s optimized for our unique challenges of Iceland. The waterproof, durable materials ensure that our gear remains dry and protected, no matter the weather. The quick-release mounting system, designed for easy use, guarantees you can adapt your gear setup as the terrain changes, keeping your ride smooth and enjoyable.

Moreover, Tailfin’s gear is built to be aerodynamic, a feature that might not seem immediately important until you’re battling strong headwinds on the desolate Icelandic roads. The gear’s sleek design will help you cut through the wind and conserve your energy.

See more about the Tailfin technical bikepacking equipment here –> Link

2. Shelter & sleeping gear

Cozy shelter and gear to brave the elements – because Iceland’s weather likes to play tricks even on seasoned campers.

The harsh Icelandic climate demands robust shelter and comfortable sleeping gear. Tent options are plentiful, with ultralight options being a popular choice. An ultralight tent is your haven from the biting cold and the unpredictable weather. Iceland’s unique terrain, with its rocky landscapes and minimal vegetation, often makes traditional setups impractical or even impossible. Instead, your shelter and sleeping gear should be self-contained and adaptable to Iceland’s stark and unpredictable weather conditions without being dependent on external support structures that may not be readily available.

When it comes to sleeping gear, prioritize comfort and slam size to get a good night’s sleep in Iceland’s wild terrain and a good day riding.

3. Food, hydration and cooking

– Fuel for the fire within, and a hot meal when those Icelandic winds try to chill your bones.

Iceland’s remote beauty often means limited access to food and water. To stay energized, you’ll need the right kitchen and water equipment. We packed food for two people and 10 days of cycling, adding in a couple of days extra food in case of an emergency.

Food: We opted for dry food packs for most of our meals from 24 hours melas. The dry pack meals are lightweight, space-efficient, and an energy-rich food source. With the limited storage capacity of your bike bags, you need efficient and space-saving food options. Another benefit is minimum preparation time. Dry food packs are often ready to eat or require minimal preparation, saving you time and effort. Just add water, and you have a quick, hearty meal. And last but not least, they taste great, an absolute treat after a long day cycling!

Food and cooking – More like adventure fuel and gourmet survival tactics for your epic Icelandic ride!

Hydration: When it comes to water, you must carry enough to stay hydrated between water sources. Iceland offers many glacier rivers, this may be a tempting water source but not to be recommended as there can be many pollutants and hazardous bacteria stored in the ice over a long time and then released into the melting water.

Your best bet when it comes to water on a ride like the Iceland divide is in our experience to 1. bring as much as you can 2. The mountain huts do have water but this is nothing you should 100% rely on. 

4. Repair Kit and Spares

– A toolset to outwit Icelandic terrain – where even the rocks have a taste for bike tires.

The Icelandic backcountry can be unforgiving, and a bike malfunction in the middle of nowhere is a daunting prospect. Your repair kit should include:

When it comes to tire repair, ensure you have the necessary tools for a tubeless setup:

Be prepared for various mechanical failures with the right spares: A spare tire? No, but a spare sense of humor, definitely! It’s your best tool for any unexpected bumps in the road.

5. Clothing and Layers

– Layers for an Icelandic adventure: Dress like an onion, you’ll cry less and cycle more.

Iceland’s climate is ever-changing, and packing the right clothing is essential for comfort and safety. A layered approach is the way to go. It’s essential to embrace the “Onion Theory.” Just like peeling the layers of an onion, consider your clothing in multiple, versatile layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your body. Next, add an insulating layer to trap warmth in the chilly Icelandic air. Your outer shell should be waterproof and windproof to shield you from the unpredictable weather. Remember, it’s easier to regulate your temperature by adding or removing layers as needed. By following the Onion Theory, you’ll be prepared for any climate and enjoy a comfortable cycling adventure through Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

On You: Layers – Because Iceland’s weather mood swings are wilder than a rollercoaster ride!

Spares/Off-Bike: Choosing the right spares is like finding the right travel buddy – they’ve got your back in Iceland’s tricky situations!

Toiletries:  Stay fresh amid Iceland’s wild beauty – you’re an adventurer, not a yeti!

6. Electronics and Extras

Gadgets galore, to capture the epic ride and stay connected when even the Wi-Fi is chilly.

In today’s digital age, electronics and extras are a necessity for staying connected and entertained during downtime:

Electronics:  Don’t let Iceland’s cool vibes freeze your gadgets – charge up and ride on!

7. Safety and First Aid

For that ‘just in case’ moment when the volcanoes aren’t the only things blowing off steam.

Safety is paramount when embarking on a bikepacking adventure in Iceland’s remote wilderness. Prepare for emergencies with:

Get Ready for the Adventure ⛰️

Strap on your helmet and saddle up, because Iceland’s cycle trip is the wildest ‘chill’ ride of your life!

As you embark on your epic bikepacking adventure through Iceland, make sure you’re well-prepared with the right gear. Research your route thoroughly, understand the climate, and plan for potential weather changes. Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain await, and with the right equipment, you’ll be ready for a truly unforgettable adventure. So, gear up, saddle up, and get ready to conquer the Land of Fire and Ice on your trusty steed!

Read more about our Iceland adventure in our adventure report articles here on our blog or see more on our instagram @Thebikepack!

Cheers,

The Bikepack