Gravel Endurance

Introduction

If you’ve recently rediscovered your love for cycling or are transitioning from road or mountain biking to gravel, the idea of bikepacking may have caught your eye. But where do you start?

This guide will walk you through how to start bikepacking in the UK, covering everything from gear and routes to planning your first overnight trip. With a blend of practical advice, encouragement, and a touch of humour, you’ll soon be ready to hit the gravel trails with confidence.

Understanding Bikepacking and Why It’s Perfect for 50+ Cyclists

Bikepacking combines the freedom of cycling with lightweight touring. Unlike traditional cycle touring, bikepacking focuses on minimalist gear and off-road trails, making it ideal for gravel riders. For cyclists over 50, bikepacking is a gentle way to explore the outdoors while staying active and enjoying the mental health benefits of time in nature.

Bikepacking is flexible. You can plan a short overnight trip or a weekend adventure along the best beginner-friendly bikepacking routes in the UK. Plus, it’s easier on your joints than mountain biking, especially with a gravel bike.

Learn more about Gravel Cycling Over 50 in the UK: The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Gear, Routes & Staying Fit for a broader overview of cycling after 50.

Essential Beginner Bikepacking Gear Checklist UK Riders Should Know

When asking how to start bikepacking in the UK for beginners, gear selection is crucial. You want comfort, safety, and efficiency without overpacking. Here’s a beginner-friendly checklist:

• Bike: A gravel bike is ideal, but make sure it’s fitted to your body. For recommendations, check The 5 Best Gravel Bikes under £2,000 for Cyclists Over 50 in the UK.
• Bikepacking bags: Frame bags, handlebar rolls, and saddle packs are essential for carrying gear. For tips, see Gravel Cycling Luggage Guide: Best Bags, Packing Tips for UK Riders Over 50.
• Clothing: Weather in the UK can be unpredictable. Pack waterproofs, thermal layers, and moisture-wicking jerseys.
• Navigation tools: GPS bike computer or smartphone with offline maps. Check Planning a Gravel Bike Ride in the UK for more on route planning.
• Camping kit (for overnight trips): Lightweight tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat.
• Food and hydration: Energy bars, gels, and a hydration pack or bottles.
• Repair kit: Spare tubes, mini pump, multi-tool, and patch kit. Learn more at Gravel Bike Spares & Repairs: A No-Nonsense Guide for UK Riders.
• Safety gear: Helmet, lights, reflective clothing, and first aid kit.

Choosing the Best Beginner-Friendly Bikepacking Routes UK

Picking the right route is key when starting bikepacking. Beginners should aim for short, manageable distances with mixed terrain. Some recommended UK options include:

• The Cotswolds: Gentle hills, scenic villages, and plenty of gravel lanes.
• Lake District: Stunning views, but tackle moderate hills carefully.
• Scottish Borders: Ideal for overnight trips with quieter roads.
• South Downs Way: A classic, beginner-friendly gravel route.

For winter rides, see Top 10 UK Winter-Friendly Gravel Routes for inspiration.

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Pro tip: Start small. Even a 20–30 mile loop is perfect for your first overnight bikepacking trip in the UK.

Planning Your First Overnight Bikepacking Trip UK

For first-timers, preparation is everything. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a short, beginner-friendly route. Avoid overly technical trails.
2. Plan accommodation: Use campsites or B&Bs if you prefer not to tent.
3. Pack efficiently: Stick to essentials; lighter is better.
4. Check weather forecasts: UK conditions can change rapidly.
5. Test ride loaded bike: Practice handling your packed bike on short rides.

See How Gravel Biking is Changing the Cycling Industry to understand bikepacking trends.

Affordable Bikepacking Setup UK Riders Can Consider

Starting bikepacking doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips for a budget-friendly setup:

• Choose a used or entry-level gravel bike. Check out The 5 Best Gravel Bikes under £2, 000 for Cyclists Over 50 in the UK.
• Use multi-purpose bags that can attach to different parts of your bike.
• Borrow or rent camping gear for your first trips.
• Opt for simple, reliable lights and repair kits.

Bikepacking is more about the experience than high-end gear. Comfort, safety, and confidence matter most.

Tips for Over 50 Riders Transitioning from Road or MTB

Cyclists over 50 often transition to gravel for its comfort and versatility. Here are tips for a smooth switch:

• Adjust saddle height and position for longer comfort.
• Wider tyres can help with grip and stability. See The Benefits of Wider Tyres for UK Gravel Riders.
• Pace yourself—bikepacking isn’t a race.
• Include off-bike stretching and strength exercises. Check Staying Strong Through Winter: Off-Bike Strength Training for Gravel Riders in Their 50s.

Safety and Comfort Tips for UK Bikepacking

• Weather: Always prepare for rain or wind; UK conditions are unpredictable.
• Visibility: Reflective clothing and lights are non-negotiable.
• Hydration & nutrition: Carry enough water and snacks for longer rides.
• Emergency plan: Keep a charged phone and let someone know your route.

More articles to explore:

• Gravel Cycling for Beginners Over 50 – A UK Guide
• Gravel Cycling Luggage Guide: Best Bags, Packing Tips for UK Riders Over 50
• Essential Gravel Bike Upgrades for UK Cyclists
• Planning a Gravel Bike Ride in the UK
• Gravel Bike Spares & Repairs: A No-Nonsense Guide for UK Riders

FAQs

Q1: How do I start bikepacking in the UK for beginners?
Start with short, beginner-friendly routes, pack only essentials, and practice handling your loaded bike before attempting overnight trips. Use a gravel bike for comfort and stability.

Q2: What is the beginner bikepacking gear checklist for UK riders?
Key items include a gravel bike, frame/handlebar/saddle bags, clothing layers, navigation tools, camping kit for overnight trips, food and hydration, repair kit, and safety gear.

Q3: What are the best overnight bikepacking trips UK first-time riders can try?
Recommended beginner trips include the Cotswolds, South Downs Way, Scottish Borders, and parts of the Lake District. Start with 20–30 miles loops for comfort.

Q4: How can I set up an affordable bikepacking setup UK?
Opt for an entry-level or used gravel bike, multi-purpose bags, lightweight camping gear, and reliable basic lights. Focus on comfort and essentials rather than expensive gear.

Q5: Where can I find the best beginner-friendly bikepacking routes UK?
Check local guides and blog posts like Top 10 UK Winter-Friendly Gravel Routes or use resources like the National Cycle Network.

Final Tips

Bikepacking is about freedom, adventure, and connecting with nature. Start small, plan well, and gradually increase distance and difficulty. With each ride, your confidence, fitness, and love for gravel cycling will grow. Remember: it’s never too late to start — especially if you’re over 50.

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Looking for inspiration for your next adventure? We’ve put together a full list of 2026 gravel cycling and bikepacking events across the UK. Whether you’re planning your first event or aiming for a bigger challenge, explore the full calendar here:
👉 https://gravelendurance.com/gravel-events/