© Nordseeküsten-Radweg/ Florian Trykowski
Packing list

We'll let you in on what you should definitely take with you on a one-day or multi-day bike tour.

But take note: this packing list is only intended as a guide and reference, since what you pack will also depend on your personal requirements, the type of tour and your accommodation. We would like to give you a tip, however, which is to consider exactly which items are absolutely necessary. This is because everything has to be stowed on the bike and every kilo of luggage has to be "pedalled along". Therefore, this list should be seen as an initial recommendation before making a decision based on your individual needs. 

Panniers and storage

Bike bags should always be waterproof.

  • Two panniers for the rear wheel

  • Two smaller panniers for the front wheel, so-called low-rider panniers (please check in advance whether you will require an extra attachment for fastening these panniers)

  • Handlebar bag, if required with map compartment

  • Rear pannier roll, rucksack or frame bag if necessary

  • Waterproof protective covers for valuables

The right clothing

You'll quickly be confronted with different weather conditions when cycling. This makes it all the more important that you are prepared for every eventuality and have a suitable change of clothes with you.

  • Cycling pants short and/or long - possibly with padding

  • Cycling outerwear, such as T-shirts and/or short and long shirts

  • Functional underwear

  • Fleece jumper and fleece shirt

  • Underwear and socks

  • Rain jacket and trousers (windproof)

  • Cycling shoes (rainproof if necessary)

  • Cycling gloves

  • Snood

  • Cycling helmet

  • Swimwear

  • Casual clothing and sleeping gear

  • An additional pair of shoes, e.g. sandals

  • Sunglasses

  • Peaked cap

Care and cosmetics

Your personal care products should of course also feature in your toiletries bag. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Toiletries bag with your personal necessities

  • Towel (made of microfibre works well as it dries quickly)

  • Insect repellent

  • Sun cream with a high sun protection factor

  • Hand washing detergent

  • Clothesline & pegs

  • Wet wipes, tissues, toilet paper

First-aid travel kit

These things can be of great help in an emergency:

  • Mini first aid kit

  • Medication to treat stomach problems, diarrhoea, fever or pain as well as personal needs

  • Tick tweezers

  • Signalling light

  • After sun

  • Disinfectant

  • Cotton buds

Other important items

Depending on the type of tour and your individual requirements:

  • Maps, navigation device and travel documents

  • Speedometer

  • Torch

  • Mobile phone and chargers (solar charger or power bank if required)

  • ID card, passport, driving licence, health insurance card

  • Cash, credit and debit cards

  • Binoculars

Everything to do with your bike

Tools and repair materials are also worth having along the way. There are now also bike service stations or bike repair shops in many places along the North Sea Coast Cycle Route that you can visit in an emergency.

  • Bike lock

  • Water bottles and holder

  • Air pump

  • Tools, multi-tool and repair kit

  • Spare tube

  • Tyre pressure gauge

  • Rags and disposable gloves

Overnight accommodation and catering along the way

You will need this equipment if you are travelling as a self-sufficient cyclist and want to spend the night in a tent.

  • Trekking tent with protective groundsheet

  • Pegs and small rubber hammer

  • Sleeping bag and camping mat

  • Camping utensils

  • Camping cooker incl. fuel and lighter/matches

  • Pocket knife and tape

  • Rubbish bag

  • Toilet paper

  • Utensils for washing up (washing-up liquid, sponge and dish towel)