INTRO

With the first bikepacking trip planned for January and a few races scheduled for the first part of 2024, I started reviewing the list of items I want to bring, items that need improvement, or items that need a little fixing or adjustment to be suitable for the specific adventure. As I looked at my gear, I thought of sharing what I have collected over the years and why I love these items so much.

Thermarest Neo Air 125 cm

I pack different gear for almost every trip, and most of my preparation goes into understanding the climate and envisioning the situations I will encounter. Through the years, I have experienced hiking through snow in the middle of the night, waking up in -10 degrees Celsius, and struggling with heat, which admittedly, I struggle the most with. These experiences have given me valuable experience, confidence, and the knowledge about packing items that can assist me and make uncomfortable situations more comfortable.

MSR E-Bivy (put the bug net in myself)

I always have a wish list of things and items that I admire. They may be lightweight, provide great weather protection, or offer a combination of both. However, it is not always possible to buy new gear, either due to financial constraints or because a current bit of kit has yet to give up; what I already have is often more than sufficient. Gear can also be shared, and the more I use my gear, the more I appreciate it. Some of these pieces felt like a special gift to myself and provided immense comfort and joy during moments when I was feeling down.

In the coming posts I’ll dive into what’s been good kit, what hasn’t made the cut, and what I bring just because I want to.