Can you believe that RAGBRAI is only a few weeks away!? Well, believe it because in 16 days’ time, our riders will be pedaling across the landscapes of Northern Iowa and experiencing all of our amazing host towns. With that being said, now is the perfect time to start gathering and packing everything you need to have the best trip possible. Below, you will find some of my recommendations.
Bike Things
- Your RAGBRAI packet (blue wristband, green bike band, luggage tag, and bike license plate)
- Your bike, duh!
- Helmet (just as important as the bike!)
- Bike shoes and/or sandals
- Flat repair kit (supplies will vary if tubular vs tubeless but here are some things that you might have in your kit): spare tube, tire levers, dynaplug, extra sealant, hand pump, mini electronic pump, CO2 cartridge, portable inflator, multitool
- Reusable water bottles
- Electrolytes, nutrition products like 1st Phorm, your favorite snacks
- Sunglasses
- Chamois Cream or a Body Glide like product (you will be spending a lot of time in the saddle!)
Clothing
- Bike Jerseys and Bibs/Shorts (x7 if you have that many!)
- Socks
- Sports bras
- A couple of outfits for when you’re done riding each day and appropriate undergarments
- Sleeping wear
- Relaxing shoes for after you ride (I love Oofos! Not sponsored, I just love mine)
- Potentially cold-weather gear if the forecast looks bad: gloves, arm sleeves, rain jacket, toe/shoe covers, windbreaker
Camping Gear
- Tent
- Ratchet straps, or something similar, to secure your tent to the outside of your duffel bag if you don’t plan on putting it inside your bag
- Bed Things: sleeping pad, sheets, inflatable pillow
- Compact camping stool
- Portable Fan (Iowa summer nights can get hot!)
Shower Stuff
- Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant (please!), medicines, hygiene products
- Shower shoes if you aren’t already bringing a flip-flop
- Microfiber, fast-drying, easy-to-fold towel
- Sunscreen
Chargers
- Portable charger (I recommend getting a solar charging one if you don’t have one already!)
- Daily use items: phone, watch
- Chargers for your bike things: drivetrain/shifting chargers, bike computer, e-bike, lights
Miscellaneous
- A credit card (RAGBRAI merch trailers will be cashless this year)
- Some cash as there are vendors who are cash only
- Laundry detergent if you want/need to do laundry on the ride
- GOOD VIBES (this ride is for fun! Enjoy it. Take your time to meet some of the people who have come from all over the world to enjoy the great state of Iowa via bike.)
I hope this list can help those of you who like to pack for trips early. I hope it also helps those who will panic pack last minute and can use this list as a reference to make sure they aren’t forgetting the essentials. I can’t wait to watch you all take flight on RAGBRAI LII!
Need More?
How and What to Pack for RAGBRAI – Video
Find All 2025 Training Blogs
Find all of Coach Oliphant’s Training Blogs, as well as the 2025 Training Plan in our Training section on RAGBRAI.com.
Coach Erin Oliphant
Coach Erin Oliphant has been passionately coaching endurance sports for the past 10 years. In addition to coaching, Erin also works for RAGBRAI full-time in customer service. You can find out more about her accomplishments and Coaching Programs here: https://erin-oliphant.com/
