Bikepacking: A Beginners Guide

The term “bikepacking” has become extremely popular in recent years, though it has been around for quite a while. It can also be known as “All Terrain Biking” or sometimes under the umbrella of “bike touring” (which is slightly different). The activity involves adding bags/accessories to a bicycle and heading out overnight—usually camping or staying at hotels. While there are millions of combinations, bikepacking can be done with any bike and gear. In this session, we’ll examine basic options to get started. We will cover the basics of what bikes work well, what gear will be needed, how to pack, and locations to check out.

About the presenter: Lance Smith is a husband, father, IT manager, and outdoor enthusiast. He has been biking, hiking, and camping for over 40 years. When he’s not working or spending time with family, he’s in the backcountry enjoying an adventure. In the past year, he merged biking with camping and discovered the fantastic world of bikepacking. In the summer of 2023, with an inexpensive bike he picked up in 2020, he set out on the Greenbrier River Trail in West Virginia for a four-day, three-night excursion on the scenic gravel path.

Host or Publisher Franklin-Springboro Public Library