How I packed.

So yesterday was a day of packing prep. I thought I'd share what I'm bringing to give other folks an idea who might try this hair-brained adventure in the future. I boiled it down to 58 pounds of gear. First, a good set of riding gear..armored jacket and pants, both 'rain-proof' (if there is such a thing). I know Pastor Les prefers his 'helmet of salvation', but I always supplement that helmet with another one, too.

Other gear: clothes-mostly synthetic blends-they dry faster.  

Tools: basic stuff that will be bike dependent. I have a weird pump for my suspension that I am bringing.

Misc: I never go anywhere without duct tape, zip ties, & some length of steel wire. They helped solve many roadside emergencies.

First aid kit: must have one. Extra Motrin for aches, too.

Baby wipes! Good for lots of cleaning. Helps with bug removal on bike and helmet visors, and yourself. Some leave a milky smear on hard surfaces, though.

Sleeping bag.

Emergency space blanket

Flashlight: the ones worn on your head free up use of both hands.

Emergency water

Chapstick! Riding in hot weather is like a constant blow dryer to the face.

Sunscreen

Electric gear. This will depend on your preference. I finally broke down and got a smart phone. Now I'll have a good camera, a GPS, Internet at stops, and communication with loved ones back home. I will bring another GPS that can handle the elements- mounted on the bike.  Of course you'll need to take inventory on all the charging cables and power connections to support their use. Another weird item I take on trips is a small Bible MP3 player. I got this years ago.. I call it my Darth Vader Bible because the actor that did vader's voice, does the narration.

So that's a summary of things I am bringing. Not a complete list. I will try to follow up after the ride with recommendations on things I wished I had.