The gorgeous Scottish Highlands are a joy to explore by bicycle. Whether you’ve just gotten your new bike or are an avid cyclist, there are some amazing paths, trails, and views to explore from the saddle here. It’s important to be just as prepared with the kit that you’re taking with you, as you are about the route that you have planned. Choosing the right kit is one of the most important parts of planning any cycling adventure, so it’s important to put together a list of lightweight essentials that you are going to need along the way. Here are some key things you’ll need before embarking on your Scottish cycling adventure.
Bike Insurance
First of all, make sure that you are covered with the correct insurance policy. Having the right bike insurance will protect you in the event that your bike is lost or stolen, or in the unfortunate event that you are involved in a collision or other type of bike accident during your adventure. Bicycles do not come cheap, so it’s important to be protected for your peace of mind. You can find out more about how to insure a bicycle at Velosurance. Velosurance provides a range of bike insurance packages to suit your cycling needs, along with a range of helpful cycling safety tips and a step-by-step guide on how to insure a bicycle.
Water
When packing your kit, water is a number one essential. Don’t assume that there will be shops open, especially in the Scottish Highlands where a lot of the area is very rural and there might not be a shop for miles when you need to rehydrate. You can get bottle cages to mount on your downtube to make taking as much water as you need easier than ever, and check your map to find out where you can top them up.
Food
High-energy snacks and small meals are another essential when you’re planning a Scottish Highlands cycling adventure. There’s nothing worse than being worn out and tired when cycling with nothing to eat to give you a must-needed energy boost. Look for food items that can easily be carried with you and are high in protein and energy.
Tire Repair Kit
You never know when you might experience a puncture or another problem with your tires, so it’s best to be prepared. Make sure that you have puncture patches, a tire pump, a decent chain tool or chain breaker, tire levers and glue in your kit.
Padded Shorts
You’ll probably want to spend some hours in the saddle when cycling through the Scottish Highlands, with so many stunning views to take in. The last thing that you want is to be distracted by being uncomfortable or in pain, so make sure that you’ve got a high-quality pair of padded shorts to wear on your adventure.
Phone and Portable Charger
Most people wouldn’t dream of going anywhere without their smartphone these days as it’s a must in case of emergencies. You can also use your phone to get directions or to make changes to your accommodation arrangements as you go if you need to. But your phone will be rendered useless if you run out of battery power halfway through your trip, so it’s a good idea to take a fully-charged portable charger with you too. You can even get some chargers that are powered by solar power that can be a fantastic idea for any outdoor adventure.
Spare Bike Inner Tubes
If you get a puncture, pushing your bike to the next place you’re going to stay in, or even pushing it all the way home, is never going to be a lot of fun. Make sure that you’ve got some spare inner tubes with you as you don’t want to get stuck trying to patch up an inner tube that needs replacing.
First Aid Kit
Hopefully, you don’t injure yourself in any way during your cycling adventure, but if you do, a first aid kit will certainly be something that you are thankful for. Make sure that you have got all the basics such as plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes, and that you know how to use everything in the kit before you set off.
Waterproof Clothing
Last but not least, waterproof clothing is a must wherever you are cycling in the UK since you never know when the heavens are going to open. At the very least, take a good waterproof raincoat that will keep you dry. You can find lightweight raincoats that you can easily roll up and place in the storage on your bike when you don’t need it, without adding much to your overall load.
The Scottish Highlands are certainly a fun place to cycle with so many amazing views. Before you set off, make sure that you’ve got these essentials ready.
