The difference between a minor hiccup and a long walk home is what you carry. You don't need to lug a workshop — just the right essentials, packed where they're out of the way. Here's the complete checklist of what to carry on every bike ride, and where to put it.
The non-negotiables (every single ride)
- Spare inner tube — the fastest roadside fix
- Two tyre levers
- Mini pump or CO₂ inflator
- Multitool with the hex sizes your bike uses
- Patch or plug kit
- Phone, ID, and some cash
- Water
For longer rides, add
- Snacks or energy food — see our long-ride fuelling guide
- Spare sealant if you run tubeless
- A light layer or rain shell
- Front and rear lights
- A spare quick-link for your chain
Where to carry it
- Saddle bag: tube, levers, multitool, patch kit — the N-625 keeps them tidy.
- Top tube bag: phone, snacks, keys — within reach on a T700.
- Storage strap or frame bag: pump and spares lashed to the frame with a strap, no backpack needed.
Not sure what goes where? See frame bag vs saddle bag vs top tube bag.
Know how to use it
Carrying a repair kit only helps if you can use it — practise how to fix a flat at home before you need it on the road.
Frequently asked questions
What should I carry on every bike ride?
At minimum: a spare tube, tyre levers, a pump or inflator, a multitool, a patch kit, your phone, ID, cash, and water.
Do I need a backpack to carry cycling essentials?
No. A saddle bag plus a top tube bag or storage strap holds everything, keeping it off your back and on the bike.
What extra should I carry on long rides?
Food, extra water, a layer or rain shell, lights, sealant if tubeless, and a spare chain quick-link.
Where should I keep my repair kit?
In a saddle bag under the seat — it stays out of the way and is always on the bike, so you never forget it.
The bottom line
Carry the seven non-negotiables on every ride, add food and layers for longer ones, and stash it all in a saddle or frame bag so it's always there when you need it.