Thanks for all tips! I also don’t cycle in cycle clothes. I wear what I enjoy wearing - harem pants, cotton t-shirt and barafoot sandals in hot season. Once a bike mechanic told me I don’t have the right clothes when he saw me riding. But I don’t care 🤷♀️ I love the feeling of being on a bike and I love to be in the clothes I like.
I was cycling in France and was to l the same thing , I was wearing Chinese fishing pants and had just cycled 4000 kilometres so l don’t know shit obviously.
As someone who is preparing for my first three-month solo cycle across Japan next year, this was super helpful. Glad to have stumbled across your channel! Excellent content.
Cling film is something I used to use to make sure the phone stayed dry when I was a bike courier. Wrap it around a few times and place it in water proof case, never had issues.
I can't believe that you manage to pack all that stuff into your bike bags. I guess there's a lot of experience in how you do it; can't wait to see your next videos.
An old piece of tire (17:43) with the bead cut out is an excellent thing to fix a sharp cut in a tire. I carry small pieces of sidewall in my saddlebag that have two-faced tape applied to it. When you get a big puncture or cut, you can clean the inside of the tire, unpeel the tape backing and place this inside the tire (inside face to inside face). Using just the sidewall is flexible and good enough. At home, I've even made a permanent repair with vulcanizing cement and this has saved me from having to replace a $60 tire. It has even resisted pressure tests to 160PSI. At normal pressures, you will not feel the patch when riding.
I've also used, when in a pinch, a dollar bill wrapped around the inner tube, not a permanent fix, it merely keeps the tube from coming out of the tire, but will buy you time and help get you out of a jam!
A piece of old race tire (e.g. 28 mm slick) works best because it is pliable yet very stretch resistant. With a very thick tire, you may not have enough space for the tube.
I carried some park tool "tyre boots" (a large patch with Kevlar in it I think) for 10 years or so and only used one last year after a mega puncture. the packaging was a bit crusty. Praise be to the cycling god's and the schwalbe marathon plus.
Nice information once again. Sleeping system looks really interesting, liked that. I also never knew you could put a different ball head on the Joby - nice to know.
I bike pack too and feel you are spot on with your evaluation process of your equipment. I love that you're constantly changing your kit to make work for the both of you. Thanks for the attention to details in this video! Liked and subbed!
A trick I found for an Opinel knife that sticks. Unlock and hold by that end and tap on a hard surface on the butt end. It should pop it open just enough you can open it easier. I have a No. 9 and love it for food prep.
i really love your "toned down" style. most people hit the road looking like the crawled out of rainbow valley, and i hate it. nice to see, that there are more people riding in style.
This is very detailed bike packing set up! I am planning my first ever long distance bike packing this summer with my small dog. and your video does help a lot on which ones to carry. I am very excited! Thank you!
I'm currently planning my very first trip over several weeks by bike. This video is so well thought out and offers me so many valuable tips! Thank you so much!
Experience and experimenting are the only ways to finding one's ideal set-up. Thanks for sharing. In remote bike travels, I sure love a little chair to sit on after a long day in the saddle, too. Keep up the great content.
For your hat under the helmet, if you pop the top button off the hat (with pliers) the helmet sits on your head better. Also, a fitted hat (one without a buckle on the back will not interfere with the helmet straps/suspension. I love the rock straps idea i am researching now to purchase some. Thank you
Hi there from a fellow dutchie living in France, opinel knifes will be used given enough time and usage. In fact, each month of farm/field use will require sharpening.
Cycling Miami to Seattle my bike 'jersey' was a white 100% cotton oxford dress shirt. it kept me cool and the long sleeves kept my fore arms from burning. In the pocket I would keep a couple of carrots.
This is your first video I watch, great and very relatable! Decathlon is pretty good for certain things! I've used those waterproof trousers too (just for a couple of days) and was happily surprised by it. Hope it works for longer trips too! Also love the idea to cut up a towel!
I found your channel as I’m thinking about doing a bit of touring in the US. I’ve been watching on this rainy afternoon in Florida and now I feel like a sissy after seeing you ride that snowy pass in Turkey. I should have been out training. This is the best tour documentary I have seen on UA-cam. Keep up the good work.
Haha yes that's one we won''t soon forget!! Actually that pass in those weather conditions still would be a challenge for us... Thanks for the compliment! 🙏
Hi Maudi - that was great! Really clear, concise and consequential. I liked what you said about not breaking the bank by going for the top of the range stuff. The great thing about UA-cam and the internet in general is there are lots of reviews and tests of whatever you are looking to buy. All you need to do is put in the research and make an informed decision. Really looking forward to the next trip especially the UK & Iceland. Stealth camping is illegal in England so you will have to be very stealthy hahaha! Stay safe
Thanks Paul! Yes youtube and the internet in general is a great resource! We know about the camping rules in the UK and we'll make sure we're respectful and extra stealthy 😬
@@WheelstoWander I currently stealth camp twice a week in the UK near my home. Although it is illegal in many places it is accepted, for example in areas where there are long distance footpaths people need somewhere to sleep on the trail, as long as you are respectful and sensible you should be ok, I never had any problems but I do try to make sure I am well hidden.
minut 1.58, the type of person germans tried to make in 15 years when i lived there......perfect organisation....but i became chaotic but with a wish to get some organisation :D
I'm downloading this video. Just so much good information and newbs are usually faced with a million options. Of course it all needs to be adjusted for budget, but the recipe is definitely worth referencing. Thanks for the video
That Arcteryx Beta AR is awesome, totally worthed, wind cut, extremely waterproof and breathable, as a pant, I would advice you Gore Wear cycling pant, very light and gore-tex waterproof
As Always Maudi another very enjoyable and informative video. Relaxed and easy. So much information. As I watched I kept googling the items and shops I hadn't looked at before. You and Eric are very addictive. I've been hooked for a long time now. Keep safe and well Anthony
I love bike touring kit tips. I was interested in your sleep system - I don't like "mummy" sleeping bags so I've finally found a bag and mat I like however I must say the system you have is intriguing. I like the freedom to move my feet and legs, so I have a rectangular bag, and I prefer the feeling of cotton or polycotton to the sheer/nylon bags. It reduces the choice but I am, at best, a 3-season camper so I don't need anything extremely warm. I have also converted an older bike for touring, although it's only 11 years old. Mine started out as a mountain bike and I have added a taller stem I can sit more upright too. I have removed the front derailleur altogether though because they are the main reason for chain loss. Instead I fitted a narrow/wide chainring which hasn't let me down once. At the rear, I just opted for a wide-range cassette which gives me a low enough gear for climbing hills, and a decent flat cruising gear. Once I get up to my gearing's maximum speed when going downhill, I'm happy to coast anyway. I don't need to go any faster. I am looking at solar panels for charging my power bank. I have a trailer (Topeak Journey) so I would like to mount one flat above the bag. I am worried about the drag that a dynamo hub produces, and solar is free so that's my current focus.
The Zenbivy system proves to very comfortable so far. Great to hear you also converted and older MTB 👌🏼 Good luck with the solar power 😊 All the best, E&M
6:44 if you blow air into the sleeping pad like that that moisture will likely freeze inside the pad in cold conditions and ruin the insulation. maybe that's why you loose so much body heat?
Great informative overview! The MacBook Air with M1 max memory and SSD hard drive is major upgrade and perfect for field content management. Great battery life. Charger is only 30 watts so that results in a much smaller charger and there are a lot power banks out now withe Type C PD charge port that can greatly extend field battery operation. Also the M1 Air does not have a cooling fan so it is absolutely quiet and stays cleaner inside the case since there is no fan pulling in outside air. The M1 has been designed to greatly speed up the content creation experience. I have been using one since they first ship and it is a game changer.
Tip on opening the Opinel when wet: hit the protruding wooden handle end on something hard, while holding the rotation point. It will come out so that grabbing is easier.
One thing I would recommend as someone who hikes. Ditch the other down jacket, you can always just layer up. ~800 fill jacket is more than enough if you have some other stuff under or over it even in really cold weather. Obviously you know the best what you need. But it seems bit unnecessary to me to have two down jackets. For example you could have some fleece jacket instead, thinner or ticker. And you can actually use that even when it's not so hot.
to use your phone in the rain, i highly recommend sea to summit brand. I've tested a bunch of nasty cheap phone case, but those from sea to summit are really waterproof and durable (what i'm looking for as a mountain guide.)
Great video. We do a lot of off road too. I noticed that you don’t wear cycle shorts or padded underwear. How do you avoid getting a sore bottom? Thanks
hi there! i have cold feet at night as well, and i use "vapour barrier technique" dry and light socks, a thin plastic bag over it, and a warm and long sock over the plastic bag, so: thick warm sock-plastic layer-light n thin sock, in case u lose or forget the down socks :) and another tip: when getting a brand new water bottle, fill it up and put 5 drops of regular bleach in, yes, bleach! let it set 24h, then rinse it, and voila, no more smelly bottle, it also works with clear bottles that get greenish or kind of black stained inside, hope you try and work for you! congrats 4 the video, saludos!
Love this video..l add to my kit all the time...50 years cycling..cant find the right company for long trips (more than a few days).. maybe l just need to pursue solo biking...l like dreaming of long trips but have not gone beyond long weekends..YET...I hoped to have company but am seriously considering a long winter solo trip..start in Dublin on the ferry to UK then ..who knows?
We hope you can find someone to tour with! There is incredible merit in going at it alone too... maybe even more so! Anyway we hope you have a great time out there 🍀
I am generally quite disorganised when I bikepack. I take some protein bars, water, one pair of cycling shorts and one pair of cycling pants. A light coat, gloves, helmet and inner tubes. I don't take filming equipment as I keep things as light as poss. Also don't forget a waterproof cover for panniers. But then I only go for a week, not months on end. I wonder how many kilos do you carry each and I imagine planes charge you a lot for the extra weight. Great post as usual...
Hi Vim, Eric 25, me about 20... Haha we're also not that organised as it looks in the video ;-) Good to keep things light, we also always try to reevaluate and send stuff home if we don't use it. Yes flight companies do charge extra and we always make sure we have to pay per bag and not per kilo, that saves some...
Usually the idea is to just use the piece as a temporary fix inside a torn tyre in order to prevent the inner tube from bulging out of the tear. For a small tear, you could just use a banknote or something similar.
Hi Maudi , great video and I really appreciate you taking the time to show us every. With regards to the helmet I bought my girlfriend a poc tactical helmet,the same as I use and she absolutely loves it ..... Had mine for 3 years and the liner comes out to wash it . Hope this helps 👍🏼
Thank you for the tip! We recently upgrade to helmets from Smith. A much better fit we are both really happy with. We will keep the poc in mind! All the best!
@@WheelstoWander aaah yes I've seen some of your latest videos and it's nice to see you with new lids 😊 fantastic videos guys keep up the great work and looking forward to your next adventures ☺️
I saw a bikepacker who used just a large waterproof backpack on top of his back rack, which he used both on the bike and off to hike. If you're still looking for a solution instead of using the compactable Decathlon backpack - this is a very good option imho.
@@WheelstoWander 3 of our group were only riding to Edinburgh, the other two to Cape Wrath, unfortunately one developed Shingles ( gordelroos and had to retire from the ride at Lochearnhead, but the remaining rider made it to Cape Wrath
For using your phone in the rain. Ghostek phone case shockproof and 100% waterproof (my phone had been fully submerged a few times and is still fine) and i have a rubbery phone mount for the handlebars bit wobbly on dirt roads and cobbles but works fine, could spend a little more and get a more sturdy mount to go with :)
I like it that you use cheap stuff too, like from Decathlon and Ali Express! Not everything has to be expensive. Only for the Decathlon rain trousers I must say these are hardly watertight... after some light rain they already start leaking. When the temperatures are not too low, I just let my legs go wet (wearing bikepants), but have some good rainshoes to keep my shoes dry, which is very important. This year I got myself some barefoot shoes, the Ballop Pellet - highly recommended. As for the phone pouch: buy one at a shop for sailing equipment. They are much better waterproof. (by the way: I love cross overs between sports. I us my Ballops also for sailing, and a pretty watertight sailing softshell for biking) Have a nice ride!
Great tip about the sailing equipment! Gear that's especially designed for being used out on the water you'd say they must have put extra effort into making it waterproof. I've just switched out the cheap rainpants that I had for another more durable one, still from decathlon though. But it seems like a quality pants with good weather sealing and zippers on the side for ventilation, let's check it out ;-)
Meinen Dank für die, wie ich finde, sehr gelungene Vorstellung. Hier ein Hinweis von mir zum Opinel... Koch den Holzgriff in Olivenöl, und das Holz wir bei Nässe nicht mehr aufquellen. Viel Glück, Zufriedenheit und Liebe auf all Deinen Wegen.
I'd get a midge net and some smidge for Scotland. The midge net is also perfect for straining rice and pasta when you've decided to upgrade (downgrade) to a pan without a lid....
Really nice, I ride bikes, but always ride a motorcycle for trips, traveling motorcyclist carry much of the same things, I have a little more space for storage, but all in all the same goods and much of the same technics. You guys be safe, and have fun.
i love the warmth of my r5 thermarest if i had a very active day hiking it feel like it generate its own heat and send it to me. so r6.9 should be like a sauna.
Thanks for sharing! The Zenbivy system looks really well designed and comfy! I got the Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt last year and am happy with it too. Definitely more comfortable and versatile than my old mummy sleeping bag. Hope you have some great nights with your new system. Last year I took a 35L backpack on my rear rack to be able to hike as well. It worked out but attaching it to my rear rack was a little less handy and it's not waterproof. I always take some zip lock bags too, super handy, I put in my oatmeal mix, nuts, tea bags, or other items I want to keep together in a transparent, light, but quite safe bag. And.. really important to watch for ticks indeed! Especially when you're camping in grassy / forest areas.
Heard lots about the Enlightened Equipment Quilt, absolutely more comfy... From now having slept around six weeks with the Zenbivy Quilt I feel like I never want to go back! :-) Ziplocks are the best! But only the OG's, we found out 🤨
@@jackcrump557 sometimes in the bushes, sometimes at a camp site where I was staying, and sometimes it's not possible - at least I don't consider it safe enough.
As for waterproofing your phone: Consider a waterproof phone! I'm using a rugged phone with a 10000mAh battery and large internal storage. It's super durable, it's survived falling off the handle bar at high speed and the long battery life is fantastic. I can just use it in rain without a phone case, and even wash it in the sink. It was very affordable too. There are many brands offering rugged phones like this, with lots of cool features like nigh vision camera or multiple GPS systems, depending on what you need. Mine is a Doogee, but there are other brands like Blackview, Ulefone, Caterpillar and many more. Hope this helps.
That is indeed a good idea! Though with the Quadlock system we use it's difficult to mount the connector in most rugged phone cases as the backsides often have a lot of ridges and lines going on and not having a flat surface for the adhesive. Thanks for the tip! E&M
Hey thank you also for the great tips! Some of these are definitely gonna be added to the collection for my next tour! Could you mention the name of the stove connector you got please? I am trying to find it but only seem to find the connectors to big Calorgas bottles..... thank you! x
That was really great, thank you. Simple yet really well thought out, the colour coding of the bags is a great idea! One less organization thing to think about and a real daily task that helps to get right
One year late but for the backpack you can do the following: Find a piece of hard plastic (for exemple an old reinforcing plate from a damaged backpack). Secure it to your rear rack with zip ties. Fold the harness on itself and then on the piece you just installed. Strap tightly in place And voilà ...
useful as I'm starting my trip from Poland to Iceland in few days, and later Americas. I have similar set, so good to know that I didn't do any overkills with equipment selection :) thanks!
Nice! And if you do miss something, or on the contrary don't use some items you can always buy equipment when on tour, or send stuff home (depending on the country, but in most cases...) Wishing you a great adventure, and perhaps our paths will cross in Iceland!
@@WheelstoWander thanks, that's the plan. Yup, hopefully will cross. I will be there in around end of July I think. Going around Iceland. See you on road!
Soak your wood knife handle in a penetrating wood finish oil, there are many kinds, Danish oil, Tung oil are two types, this will prevent water from swelling up the wood. the oil will dry no it will not be greasy for your hands
Thanks a lot for all this information. Very useful and helpful in organizing a bicycle trip. I will definitely take a lot of your advice. Once again many thanks Pawel🤗
Hi Maudi. I'm a cold sleeper and considering the Zenbivy system so I will be curious to hear your thoughts on this in the future. If you haven't already experienced rain with the Rockbros top tube bag you may want to use a zip lock bag inside first. I just finished riding the Katy Trail in Missouri here in the states and after a day of rain the inside of mine was soaked. Luckily I used a zip lock bag myself and everything was ok. Take care you two and cheers from Texas ✌
Thanks for the tip about the rockbros bag, miraculously we haven't had much rain yet so I haven't been able to test it out under those circumstances, but I do keep some less important stuff in there so it won't matter if it gets wet. If I've tested the zenbivy for a few months I will give an update on it, untill now I've had some of the best nights sleep I've ever had outside which is exceptional (it could also be the mat). i also had some bad nights but the amount of good nights sleep has never been this high. Although I think sleeping comfort is very personal so what might work for perhaps doesn't work for everyone!?
Hi! Very informative video, but you lost me on the piece of tire bit. Is that so you can show it to a bike shop in a foreign country or am I missing its purpose altogether? Thank you, now subscribed!
Thanks for all tips! I also don’t cycle in cycle clothes. I wear what I enjoy wearing - harem pants, cotton t-shirt and barafoot sandals in hot season. Once a bike mechanic told me I don’t have the right clothes when he saw me riding. But I don’t care 🤷♀️ I love the feeling of being on a bike and I love to be in the clothes I like.
Haha, I always wonder how other people can decide the right gear/clothes for someone else! Good on you 👍
Coco Chanel avrebbe detto la stessa cosa
Me too 😊
I was cycling in France and was to l the same thing , I was wearing Chinese fishing pants and had just cycled 4000 kilometres so l don’t know shit obviously.
Haha! Yes, great choice :) Harem pants all the way :)
As someone who is preparing for my first three-month solo cycle across Japan next year, this was super helpful. Glad to have stumbled across your channel! Excellent content.
Great stuff! Have fun in Japan 🍀🚲 Thanks & Best wishes!!
Cling film is something I used to use to make sure the phone stayed dry when I was a bike courier. Wrap it around a few times and place it in water proof case, never had issues.
Finally a woman on a bike I can relate to!!! Thank you for sharing the way you pack and what you pack :)
Thank you Alia! That is nice to hear 😊 Best wishes!
I can't believe that you manage to pack all that stuff into your bike bags. I guess there's a lot of experience in how you do it; can't wait to see your next videos.
Haha yes it seems like a lot but it fits quite well! 🙂
What bike you use
An old piece of tire (17:43) with the bead cut out is an excellent thing to fix a sharp cut in a tire. I carry small pieces of sidewall in my saddlebag that have two-faced tape applied to it. When you get a big puncture or cut, you can clean the inside of the tire, unpeel the tape backing and place this inside the tire (inside face to inside face). Using just the sidewall is flexible and good enough. At home, I've even made a permanent repair with vulcanizing cement and this has saved me from having to replace a $60 tire. It has even resisted pressure tests to 160PSI. At normal pressures, you will not feel the patch when riding.
I've also used, when in a pinch, a dollar bill wrapped around the inner tube, not a permanent fix, it merely keeps the tube from coming out of the tire, but will buy you time and help get you out of a jam!
A piece of old race tire (e.g. 28 mm slick) works best because it is pliable yet very stretch resistant. With a very thick tire, you may not have enough space for the tube.
I carried some park tool "tyre boots" (a large patch with Kevlar in it I think) for 10 years or so and only used one last year after a mega puncture. the packaging was a bit crusty. Praise be to the cycling god's and the schwalbe marathon plus.
Nice information once again. Sleeping system looks really interesting, liked that. I also never knew you could put a different ball head on the Joby - nice to know.
I bike pack too and feel you are spot on with your evaluation process of your equipment. I love that you're constantly changing your kit to make work for the both of you. Thanks for the attention to details in this video! Liked and subbed!
Thanks Bobby 😊 Great to hear! All the best!!
A trick I found for an Opinel knife that sticks. Unlock and hold by that end and tap on a hard surface on the butt end. It should pop it open just enough you can open it easier. I have a No. 9 and love it for food prep.
Thank you for the trick Scott! We will try it the next time we have a sticky Opinel All the best!!
Great video. Thanks. Coffee for you and Eric.
Ahh yes please!! 🥱😋
i really love your "toned down" style. most people hit the road looking like the crawled out of rainbow valley, and i hate it.
nice to see, that there are more people riding in style.
This is very detailed bike packing set up! I am planning my first ever long distance bike packing this summer with my small dog. and your video does help a lot on which ones to carry. I am very excited! Thank you!
I'm currently planning my very first trip over several weeks by bike. This video is so well thought out and offers me so many valuable tips! Thank you so much!
You too 🙏🏼 Have a wonderful trip!
Experience and experimenting are the only ways to finding one's ideal set-up. Thanks for sharing. In remote bike travels, I sure love a little chair to sit on after a long day in the saddle, too. Keep up the great content.
For your hat under the helmet, if you pop the top button off the hat (with pliers) the helmet sits on your head better. Also, a fitted hat (one without a buckle on the back will not interfere with the helmet straps/suspension. I love the rock straps idea i am researching now to purchase some. Thank you
Thank you for the tip! Good luck with the Rock Straps. All the Best
Dziękujemy.
Ty też! Wszystkiego najlepszego :)
Alot of good tips. I tour on motorcycle and bicycle. Gear is always changing from old to new to lighter and more compact.
Thanks Jerald 😊 All the Best, E&M
Hi there from a fellow dutchie living in France, opinel knifes will be used given enough time and usage. In fact, each month of farm/field use will require sharpening.
Your voice is so calming. After the end of the vid which was informative I found myself less stressed 😌
That is so nice to here 😊
Thanks for putting this together. Very helpful!
Cycling Miami to Seattle my bike 'jersey' was a white 100% cotton oxford dress shirt. it kept me cool and the long sleeves kept my fore arms from burning. In the pocket I would keep a couple of carrots.
This is your first video I watch, great and very relatable! Decathlon is pretty good for certain things! I've used those waterproof trousers too (just for a couple of days) and was happily surprised by it. Hope it works for longer trips too! Also love the idea to cut up a towel!
Thank you Charlotte! Decathlon has some good value items :) All the best for your adventures, E&M
Geeat to see you two out there touring. Just clicked on the video here. I will watch it. Thanks for the work.
I found your channel as I’m thinking about doing a bit of touring in the US.
I’ve been watching on this rainy afternoon in Florida and now I feel like a sissy after seeing you ride that snowy pass in Turkey. I should have been out training.
This is the best tour documentary I have seen on UA-cam. Keep up the good work.
Haha yes that's one we won''t soon forget!! Actually that pass in those weather conditions still would be a challenge for us... Thanks for the compliment! 🙏
Hi Maudi - that was great! Really clear, concise and consequential.
I liked what you said about not breaking the bank by going for the top of the range stuff. The great thing about UA-cam and the internet in general is there are lots of reviews and tests of whatever you are looking to buy. All you need to do is put in the research and make an informed decision.
Really looking forward to the next trip especially the UK & Iceland. Stealth camping is illegal in England so you will have to be very stealthy hahaha!
Stay safe
Thanks Paul! Yes youtube and the internet in general is a great resource! We know about the camping rules in the UK and we'll make sure we're respectful and extra stealthy 😬
@@WheelstoWander I currently stealth camp twice a week in the UK near my home. Although it is illegal in many places it is accepted, for example in areas where there are long distance footpaths people need somewhere to sleep on the trail, as long as you are respectful and sensible you should be ok, I never had any problems but I do try to make sure I am well hidden.
We love you Maudi!
minut 1.58, the type of person germans tried to make in 15 years when i lived there......perfect organisation....but i became chaotic but with a wish to get some organisation :D
I'm downloading this video. Just so much good information and newbs are usually faced with a million options. Of course it all needs to be adjusted for budget, but the recipe is definitely worth referencing. Thanks for the video
Cool! Thanks & All the best, E&M
That Arcteryx Beta AR is awesome, totally worthed, wind cut, extremely waterproof and breathable, as a pant, I would advice you Gore Wear cycling pant, very light and gore-tex waterproof
Thank you for sharing.
I just recently got the interest of bikepacking.
This will help me out so much when I do my first trip 🙂
You too! Have a wonderful journey 🍀
As Always Maudi another very enjoyable and informative video. Relaxed and easy. So much information. As I watched I kept googling the items and shops I hadn't looked at before.
You and Eric are very addictive. I've been hooked for a long time now.
Keep safe and well
Anthony
Thanks as always Anthony, great you enjoyed it again! 😊 E&M
Agreed: very addictive!
Thank you! I am inspired! Ex backpacker with back problems. Looking for something to fill that void and I think this is it!
Great to hear that! Wishing you all the best and hopefully it is what you are looking for, E&M
I love bike touring kit tips. I was interested in your sleep system - I don't like "mummy" sleeping bags so I've finally found a bag and mat I like however I must say the system you have is intriguing. I like the freedom to move my feet and legs, so I have a rectangular bag, and I prefer the feeling of cotton or polycotton to the sheer/nylon bags. It reduces the choice but I am, at best, a 3-season camper so I don't need anything extremely warm.
I have also converted an older bike for touring, although it's only 11 years old. Mine started out as a mountain bike and I have added a taller stem I can sit more upright too. I have removed the front derailleur altogether though because they are the main reason for chain loss. Instead I fitted a narrow/wide chainring which hasn't let me down once. At the rear, I just opted for a wide-range cassette which gives me a low enough gear for climbing hills, and a decent flat cruising gear. Once I get up to my gearing's maximum speed when going downhill, I'm happy to coast anyway. I don't need to go any faster.
I am looking at solar panels for charging my power bank. I have a trailer (Topeak Journey) so I would like to mount one flat above the bag. I am worried about the drag that a dynamo hub produces, and solar is free so that's my current focus.
The Zenbivy system proves to very comfortable so far. Great to hear you also converted and older MTB 👌🏼 Good luck with the solar power 😊 All the best, E&M
I don’t like cycling clothing either, I love your style, great video very refreshing
6:44 if you blow air into the sleeping pad like that that moisture will likely freeze inside the pad in cold conditions and ruin the insulation. maybe that's why you loose so much body heat?
Great informative overview! The MacBook Air with M1 max memory and SSD hard drive is major upgrade and perfect for field content management. Great battery life. Charger is only 30 watts so that results in a much smaller charger and there are a lot power banks out now withe Type C PD charge port that can greatly extend field battery operation. Also the M1 Air does not have a cooling fan so it is absolutely quiet and stays cleaner inside the case since there is no fan pulling in outside air. The M1 has been designed to greatly speed up the content creation experience. I have been using one since they first ship and it is a game changer.
I have the Mac M1 Mini for use at home (desktop) and it really is very quiet and fast.
Thanks for the detailed description Philip and all great reasons to upgrade! It will definitely be one of our first next investments :-)
I love how you are just to the point. Great video. Thank you
😊🙏🏼
Thank you for your touring equipment tips - really useful. Good luck on your future tours and Stay Safe.
Thanks John 😊 All the Best, E&M
Tip on opening the Opinel when wet: hit the protruding wooden handle end on something hard, while holding the rotation point. It will come out so that grabbing is easier.
We've tried it but I think we're doing it incorrectly 😅
If you like using red light on headlamp, your rear light could double as head-torch 😊 thx for the video.
Indeed! Never tried that... perhaps for an UL scenario someday... 😉
One thing I would recommend as someone who hikes. Ditch the other down jacket, you can always just layer up. ~800 fill jacket is more than enough if you have some other stuff under or over it even in really cold weather. Obviously you know the best what you need. But it seems bit unnecessary to me to have two down jackets. For example you could have some fleece jacket instead, thinner or ticker. And you can actually use that even when it's not so hot.
It's just one of these must haves 😉
I am on Warm Showers, Swansea. Near cycle track.)
Nice, we haven't visited this part of Wales but perhaps next time around!? 😊
Great video! I'm curious about that sleep system.
to use your phone in the rain, i highly recommend sea to summit brand. I've tested a bunch of nasty cheap phone case, but those from sea to summit are really waterproof and durable (what i'm looking for as a mountain guide.)
Brilliant video from experienced travellers.
Great video. We do a lot of off road too. I noticed that you don’t wear cycle shorts or padded underwear. How do you avoid getting a sore bottom? Thanks
hi there! i have cold feet at night as well, and i use "vapour barrier technique" dry and light socks, a thin plastic bag over it, and a warm and long sock over the plastic bag, so: thick warm sock-plastic layer-light n thin sock, in case u lose or forget the down socks :) and another tip: when getting a brand new water bottle, fill it up and put 5 drops of regular bleach in, yes, bleach! let it set 24h, then rinse it, and voila, no more smelly bottle, it also works with clear bottles that get greenish or kind of black stained inside, hope you try and work for you! congrats 4 the video, saludos!
Both great tips! We'll try the DIY vapor barrier in Iceland :-)
Love this video..l add to my kit all the time...50 years cycling..cant find the right company for long trips (more than a few days).. maybe l just need to pursue solo biking...l like dreaming of long trips but have not gone beyond long weekends..YET...I hoped to have company but am seriously considering a long winter solo trip..start in Dublin on the ferry to UK then ..who knows?
We hope you can find someone to tour with! There is incredible merit in going at it alone too... maybe even more so! Anyway we hope you have a great time out there 🍀
I really love your filming spot in that awesome field. You have a very nice voice :) thanks for making these great videos
Tailwinds
🙏🏼😊 Best wishes from us!!
merino wool socks, and a spare full set upper and lower in case of cold nights.
Good addition!! Thanks
I am generally quite disorganised when I bikepack. I take some protein bars, water, one pair of cycling shorts and one pair of cycling pants. A light coat, gloves, helmet and inner tubes. I don't take filming equipment as I keep things as light as poss. Also don't forget a waterproof cover for panniers. But then I only go for a week, not months on end.
I wonder how many kilos do you carry each and I imagine planes charge you a lot for the extra weight.
Great post as usual...
Hi Vim, Eric 25, me about 20... Haha we're also not that organised as it looks in the video ;-) Good to keep things light, we also always try to reevaluate and send stuff home if we don't use it. Yes flight companies do charge extra and we always make sure we have to pay per bag and not per kilo, that saves some...
I'm curious to know how would you fix a outer tire with the piece that piece you have? Do you sand and glue together? Which glue would you use?
Usually the idea is to just use the piece as a temporary fix inside a torn tyre in order to prevent the inner tube from bulging out of the tear. For a small tear, you could just use a banknote or something similar.
Hi Maudi , great video and I really appreciate you taking the time to show us every. With regards to the helmet I bought my girlfriend a poc tactical helmet,the same as I use and she absolutely loves it ..... Had mine for 3 years and the liner comes out to wash it . Hope this helps 👍🏼
Thank you for the tip! We recently upgrade to helmets from Smith. A much better fit we are both really happy with. We will keep the poc in mind! All the best!
@@WheelstoWander aaah yes I've seen some of your latest videos and it's nice to see you with new lids 😊 fantastic videos guys keep up the great work and looking forward to your next adventures ☺️
Thanks. How much weight do you carry? And can you make a review on your bike?
About 20 KG I guesstimate! Perhaps I will... All the best!
Superb. Loved the little outtakes at the end! :)
wow, picked up a lot of ideas concerning your setup. thx..awesome video!
Thanks 😊 All the Best, E&M
Interesting and thank you.
Have a safe trip 💗
I saw a bikepacker who used just a large waterproof backpack on top of his back rack, which he used both on the bike and off to hike. If you're still looking for a solution instead of using the compactable Decathlon backpack - this is a very good option imho.
Thank you, great video! looking forward to the north biking soon! ✌
This was a very enjoyable video. Thank you again. I can not wait for your videos from Iceland.
🙏
Hi, hope the tour is still going well? We met you in Kielder forest early July, we were a group of 5 heading for Cape Wrath, Scotland. Good luck
Hi :) Yes, we remember!! Did you finish your trip alright? Best wishes from Iceland, E&M
@@WheelstoWander 3 of our group were only riding to Edinburgh, the other two to Cape Wrath, unfortunately one developed Shingles
( gordelroos and had to retire from the ride at Lochearnhead, but the remaining rider made it to Cape Wrath
The first image with the crankset on the left side is amazing 😃
Haha, a keen eye there Sandro 😉
For using your phone in the rain. Ghostek phone case shockproof and 100% waterproof (my phone had been fully submerged a few times and is still fine) and i have a rubbery phone mount for the handlebars bit wobbly on dirt roads and cobbles but works fine, could spend a little more and get a more sturdy mount to go with :)
My iPhone X was in the washing machine once. Still works great on my bike when navigating.
I like it that you use cheap stuff too, like from Decathlon and Ali Express! Not everything has to be expensive. Only for the Decathlon rain trousers I must say these are hardly watertight... after some light rain they already start leaking. When the temperatures are not too low, I just let my legs go wet (wearing bikepants), but have some good rainshoes to keep my shoes dry, which is very important.
This year I got myself some barefoot shoes, the Ballop Pellet - highly recommended.
As for the phone pouch: buy one at a shop for sailing equipment. They are much better waterproof. (by the way: I love cross overs between sports. I us my Ballops also for sailing, and a pretty watertight sailing softshell for biking)
Have a nice ride!
Great tip about the sailing equipment! Gear that's especially designed for being used out on the water you'd say they must have put extra effort into making it waterproof.
I've just switched out the cheap rainpants that I had for another more durable one, still from decathlon though. But it seems like a quality pants with good weather sealing and zippers on the side for ventilation, let's check it out ;-)
You offered a very thorough review of your equipment. Thank you.
Thanks Kenneth!
door jullie heb ik net mijn huis te koop gezet en een fiets gekocht!!! dus jullie hebben mij zeker geinspireerd ;)
Echt?? 😲
Il sor Zucchina aveva appena finito il giorno prima di costruirsi la sua casetta. Dovete sapere che fin da ragazzo egli si era fissato in testa[ 🏆🏆🏆
Excellent video and your English speaking is perfect. Thank you.
Ahh, that's a nice compliment! 🙏
Excellent as ever, balanced and informative, sleep system was intriguing, curious to see how you get on with it.
I'll keep in mind to give an update in one of our video's / proper review after a few months!
opinel and tick removers sucks, there are lots of UL folders to choose from and some pincers works better.
great gear list
Man you guys are the best 💯🚴
Thanks 😊🙏🏼
Meinen Dank für die, wie ich finde, sehr gelungene Vorstellung. Hier ein Hinweis von mir zum Opinel... Koch den Holzgriff in Olivenöl, und das Holz wir bei Nässe nicht mehr aufquellen. Viel Glück, Zufriedenheit und Liebe auf all Deinen Wegen.
I'd get a midge net and some smidge for Scotland. The midge net is also perfect for straining rice and pasta when you've decided to upgrade (downgrade) to a pan without a lid....
Just bought it!! And I just love it when items are multifunctional ;-)
Really nice, I ride bikes, but always ride a motorcycle for trips, traveling motorcyclist carry much of the same things, I have a little more space for storage, but all in all the same goods and much of the same technics. You guys be safe, and have fun.
Nice to know it's kind of similar! :-)
i love the warmth of my r5 thermarest if i had a very active day hiking it feel like it generate its own heat and send it to me. so r6.9 should be like
a sauna.
It's very nice indeed! I need a bit of sauna every now and then 😉
Thanks for sharing! The Zenbivy system looks really well designed and comfy! I got the Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt last year and am happy with it too. Definitely more comfortable and versatile than my old mummy sleeping bag. Hope you have some great nights with your new system.
Last year I took a 35L backpack on my rear rack to be able to hike as well. It worked out but attaching it to my rear rack was a little less handy and it's not waterproof.
I always take some zip lock bags too, super handy, I put in my oatmeal mix, nuts, tea bags, or other items I want to keep together in a transparent, light, but quite safe bag.
And.. really important to watch for ticks indeed! Especially when you're camping in grassy / forest areas.
Heard lots about the Enlightened Equipment Quilt, absolutely more comfy... From now having slept around six weeks with the Zenbivy Quilt I feel like I never want to go back! :-)
Ziplocks are the best! But only the OG's, we found out 🤨
Where do you leave your bike when you go for hikes?
@@WheelstoWander waar hebben jullie de Zenbivy kunnen kopen?
@@jackcrump557 sometimes in the bushes, sometimes at a camp site where I was staying, and sometimes it's not possible - at least I don't consider it safe enough.
As for waterproofing your phone:
Consider a waterproof phone!
I'm using a rugged phone with a 10000mAh battery and large internal storage. It's super durable, it's survived falling off the handle bar at high speed and the long battery life is fantastic. I can just use it in rain without a phone case, and even wash it in the sink. It was very affordable too.
There are many brands offering rugged phones like this, with lots of cool features like nigh vision camera or multiple GPS systems, depending on what you need. Mine is a Doogee, but there are other brands like Blackview, Ulefone, Caterpillar and many more. Hope this helps.
That is indeed a good idea! Though with the Quadlock system we use it's difficult to mount the connector in most rugged phone cases as the backsides often have a lot of ridges and lines going on and not having a flat surface for the adhesive. Thanks for the tip! E&M
Es mucho equipo.
Pero todo compacto, gracias por la información…..
Algún día nos conoceremos y será pedaleando en la ruta…….
Cuídense
Un abrazo
thank you for sharing, Hope can meet you both somewhere, or if you cycling in Indonesia let me know, thanks
Hey thank you also for the great tips! Some of these are definitely gonna be added to the collection for my next tour! Could you mention the name of the stove connector you got please? I am trying to find it but only seem to find the connectors to big Calorgas bottles..... thank you! x
Thank you for the good Tipps, Island is my Favorit Country and I love to See you Guys there! I Hope I find a Partner who love to Ride bicycle ..
That was really great, thank you. Simple yet really well thought out, the colour coding of the bags is a great idea! One less organization thing to think about and a real daily task that helps to get right
One year late but for the backpack you can do the following:
Find a piece of hard plastic (for exemple an old reinforcing plate from a damaged backpack). Secure it to your rear rack with zip ties.
Fold the harness on itself and then on the piece you just installed.
Strap tightly in place
And voilà ...
Great tip! Thanks :)
How is a flash light going to prevent unwanted visitors of a night ?
Well when I was a young hunter we used to attach a flashlight to our rifles for night hunting.
great video thanks happy trails ahead. I am from Canada.
Thank you Paula :) All the best, E&M... p.s. Canada would be great to see some day...
useful as I'm starting my trip from Poland to Iceland in few days, and later Americas. I have similar set, so good to know that I didn't do any overkills with equipment selection :) thanks!
Nice! And if you do miss something, or on the contrary don't use some items you can always buy equipment when on tour, or send stuff home (depending on the country, but in most cases...) Wishing you a great adventure, and perhaps our paths will cross in Iceland!
@@WheelstoWander thanks, that's the plan. Yup, hopefully will cross. I will be there in around end of July I think. Going around Iceland. See you on road!
thanks, it was very insightful, looking forward to your experiences with the zenbivy
I'll remember to share my thoughts on it later on :-)
Great video, so well done and explained. Ha ha and your bloopers are always gold 😂👏🏻🙏
Soak your wood knife handle in a penetrating wood finish oil, there are many kinds, Danish oil, Tung oil are two types, this will prevent water from swelling up the wood. the oil will dry no it will not be greasy for your hands
Top tip! Thanks Nic 👍🏼
Great video! I like your Icelandic accent! I'm surprised you didn't bring any 66 North clothing! Thanks for all the information!
Icelandic, nice ;) I didn't knew that!
Thank you so much for this! Very helpful and inspiring.
Great to hear Lance :) All the best, E&M
Thanks for the huge effort you make!! Its very useful for my trips :)
very nice presentation, thanks.
Absolutely love your videos guys really great and interesting and helpful 👍
Thanks 😊 All the Best, E&M
Thanks a lot for all this information. Very useful and helpful in organizing a bicycle trip. I will definitely take a lot of your advice. Once again many thanks Pawel🤗
THANKS for all your channel
That was very informative!
Thanks Sandra!
Hi Maudi. I'm a cold sleeper and considering the Zenbivy system so I will be curious to hear your thoughts on this in the future. If you haven't already experienced rain with the Rockbros top tube bag you may want to use a zip lock bag inside first. I just finished riding the Katy Trail in Missouri here in the states and after a day of rain the inside of mine was soaked. Luckily I used a zip lock bag myself and everything was ok. Take care you two and cheers from Texas ✌
Thanks for the tip about the rockbros bag, miraculously we haven't had much rain yet so I haven't been able to test it out under those circumstances, but I do keep some less important stuff in there so it won't matter if it gets wet. If I've tested the zenbivy for a few months I will give an update on it, untill now I've had some of the best nights sleep I've ever had outside which is exceptional (it could also be the mat). i also had some bad nights but the amount of good nights sleep has never been this high. Although I think sleeping comfort is very personal so what might work for perhaps doesn't work for everyone!?
you guys are an inspiration, thanks for another great video
Thanks so much Reece 😊 All the best
Are you going to visit Ireland?
Not this time around unfortunately!
Hi! Very informative video, but you lost me on the piece of tire bit. Is that so you can show it to a bike shop in a foreign country or am I missing its purpose altogether? Thank you, now subscribed!