The Rider’s Readiness Guide Part 2 - The Day Tripper

In last week’s journal entry Part 1, we covered the what the minimalist rider carries along with them on a ride. The day tripper setup is designed for longer rides, bigger routes, and areas where help isn’t close by. Whether you’re heading deep into the trails, tackling a long gravel route, or spending most of the day in the saddle, this approach focuses on being self-sufficient without carrying unnecessary weight.

Unlike the minimalist, the day tripper plans for more than just a flat tire. This rider is prepared for mechanical issues, changing weather, nutrition needs, and unexpected delays. The goal is confidence—knowing you can handle most problems on your own and keep riding.

In this week’s blog, we’ll look at two popular storage setups for day rides: bike-mounted storage and lumbar (fanny) and small hydration packs, along with the essential gear each should carry. Both options offer practical ways to stay prepared without overloading your bike or body.

Road and gravel cyclists often prefer bike-mounted storage, since bulky packs can reduce aerodynamics and cause discomfort during long hours in the saddle. Mountain bikers, on the other hand, tend to be more dynamic on the bike and are less concerned with airflow, making lumbar and back packs a popular choice.

While mountain bike rides may cover fewer miles, they often involve rougher terrain and a higher risk of mechanical issues. Because of this, proper preparation is especially important. Choosing the right storage system—and packing it wisely—helps ensure you’re ready for whatever the trail throws your way.

Typical Day Tripper Kit

Bike-mounted or pack storage:

• Tube (+ backup tube)

• Tire levers

• CO₂ inflator and cartridges

• Tire plug kit for tubeless tire repair

• Mini hand pump or (backup inflation)

• Multi-tool with chain breaker

• Quick link / master link

• Small patch kit

Personal / pack essentials:

• Extra water or hydration pack

• Energy bars, gels, or real food

• Phone and ID

• Small first-aid kit

• Lightweight wind or rain shell

• Cash or card

• Motrin, Tylenol, or antihistamine

Best For

• Long MTB loops

• Gravel adventures

• All-day road rides

• Remote trail systems

• Group rides far from town

The day tripper setup gives you the freedom to explore farther, ride longer, and handle most problems without relying on outside help—making it the perfect balance between minimalism and full expedition mode.

Bike Mounted Option

Fidlock Saddle Bags allow for minimalist content and can be taken on and off the bike without tools.

A frame mounted “bento box'“ is a great storage place for nutrition and items that need to be accessed while on the bike.

A handle bar bag is a great place to store items or tools that also need to be easily accessed during the ride.

Internal frame storage is offered by many brands. These items tend to be essential but are usually not accessed unless there’s a mechanical.

In-frame storage wraps.

The contents of in-frame storage.

The Lumbar pack

Fox makes the perfect size hydration pack for the day tripper. Along with a 1.5 Liter hydration bladder, there’s a water bottle holder to increase hydration capacity

The perfect amount of storage for longer rides while not being over burdened by a full size pack.

The typical contents of a lumbar pack