Your top 5 things to take on tour

[LexieCali]

Just make sure the funnel is in the bottle or it gets  messy

Shane:
You are being very naughty indeed!

[LexieCali]

For most people, thinking too hard about what they might leave out is a sure way to overpack.

Study existing packing lists. There are hundreds of them on the web, including a pretty comprehensive one right here on the ACA site.

Don't take everything on anybody's list. Also, tailor your list to the location and weather you expect there at the time you are going.

Thank you for the link and the words of wisdom. This is really good advice.

[tonupgilly]

Thanks for your info again LexieCali.

I have the same budget problem when considering tours in USA.  At least living in the UK, the rest of Europe is just across the Channel.  Although having said that, I'm finding that the Dover ferries (I live near Dover) have now decided they won't carry bicycles - a decision that dumbfounds me. There are other ways, but it can get messy and a bit costly.  Never mind - these things are sent to try us.  Let me know if you do think of coming to Europe - perhaps I can be of some assistance.  It's pretty hard to get totally lost in Europe - things are on a much smaller scale than USA and you are never very far from a town, no bears to worry about.

Happy cycling and have fun.

[litespeed]

Let's not forget the Gorilla Tape. It is sold in any hardware store. It's VERY strong, waterproof and sticky. The only drawback is that if you use it to repair your tent, packsack, pannier, etc. it is virtually permanent. I don't think there is any way to remove it without destroying the item. I once taped up a ruptured seam on my sleeping bag compression bag. It's still there.

[Galloper]

Another vote for Kindle.   Just come back from a 3 week jolly in France and was really pleased with it.

As regards charging for Garmin, phones etc., I use the shaver sockets in campsite washrooms.

Cooker.   I use a Primus, the pot that came with it has a fast boil heat distributor on it.   Brilliant, boils enough water for a brew faster than you can put the tea/coffee/sugar in the mug!

Yorkshire Tea.   The best, imho!

Soreen Malt Loaf.   (Try it with a sharp cheddar or Wensleydale.   Yum!)

[Shane]

As regards charging for Garmin, phones etc.,

I'm having fairly good results with the e-werk from B+M see >THIS< shameless plug to my site...

[rjones35]

Don't really have anything to add to what everybody has already said.  But have a good time!!! and use sunblock and chamois buttr!!!

[LexieCali]

and use sunblock and chamois buttr!!!

Yes, thank you! Sunblock is definitely my friend

[driftlessregion]

Shane:
I want the camera mount! Will you share the parts list please!

[Shane]

Shane:
I want the camera mount! Will you share the parts list please!

1. Arcspan Handbar organizer -Cut off 1 side of it.
2. an old cheap headlight mount.
3. Pieces of aluminium sheet (1 thick 1 thin).
4. Velcro.
5. 2x M5 x (?) allen screws, + 2 wingnuts, + a couple of washers/spacers.
6. a camera mount screw thingy....
7. Many hours of work in the shed, (this was mark IV).

The second half of video1 and video2 show it in action:) attached to my top tube on the the frame (no shaky steering).

Good luck

Shane

[kingstumps70]

Water purifier,LED lantern,extra batteries(headlamp,taillight,etc.)repair skills,even knot tying skills( hammocks,tarps,bear bags)no cotton!