Everything You Need to Know About Bikepacking and Weather
By Bruce Schulk | 8/15/2023
Are you planning a bikepacking trip and worried about the weather? Don't be. With the right gear, there's no reason why a little rain should dampen your spirits or stop you from enjoying your adventure. I recently spent fourteen days traversing the continental divide in all kinds of inclement weather. We encountered everything from torrential downpours to bluebird sunny days, and mother nature even threw in one brief high altitude snow shower. In this article I will break down everything you'll need to know about how to select the best gear for any type of weather you may find yourself riding in...
Raingear doesn't have to consist of a rain jacket; a rain poncho works great in a pinch. They pack up super small, are quick to put on, and are able to cover more than just you on a ride. The one downside is the loose poncho can flap around quite a bit during descents.
In the picture above, my wife, Ava, found the rain poncho to be just right for the brief rain shower we encountered.
Rain gear is essential for any bikepacking trip. One thing to consider when choosing your gear is to choose something that is breathable. The worst thing that can happen by riding in the wrong raingear is you end up wetter on the inside of your clothes than you do on the outside.
Rain isn't the only weather you need to prepare for. If you do any kind of riding in the winter months, you'll want to make sure you stay warm. A coat or jacket that stops the wind definitely helps to keep you in the saddle longer.