Let's talk about what to pack for RAGBRAI. I've done this ride a few times, and trust me, the right gear can make or break your experience. First off, let's talk about the bike itself. You don’t need a $5,000 carbon fiber frame, but it should be something reliable. Ensure your bike has been serviced recently—new brake pads, good tires, and a comfortable seat can make a big difference. My buddy once rode on a 15-year-old steel frame bike, and he made it through, but he spent twice as much time at the repair tent as I did.
Now, consider clothing. The ride is a week-long event, and during that time, you'll experience all kinds of weather. Iowa summers can be brutally hot during the day—upwards of 90 degrees Fahrenheit—but temperatures can drop into the 60s at night. Bring several pairs of padded cycling shorts; I typically pack three or four and run a wash cycle every two days. Also, performance-oriented moisture-wicking shirts are a must to avoid that uncomfortable sticky feeling. One year, a sudden downpour hit on day three, and my quick-dry jacket was a lifesaver. It rained for nearly six hours straight, and those who didn’t have proper gear seriously regretted it.
You’ll need to stay hydrated, and a standard water bottle simply won't cut it for an all-day ride. I carry two large bottles, each holding 24 ounces, and I refill them at every opportunity. On a particularly hot day, you could sweat out a liter every hour. Electrolyte packets are also a great idea—they help replace the salt and minerals you lose through sweat. Also, don’t forget to bring high-carb snacks. Stuff like energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts are great for quick energy. The organizers set up food stops, but they can get crowded. One year, I saw a guy bonk because he thought he could make it from breakfast to lunch without packing extra food; big mistake.
Speaking of food, make sure you have some cash on hand. Most of the small towns you’ll ride through set up food stands, and while some accept cards, many only take cash. I usually budget around $10-15 per meal. It's a small price to pay for locally made pie and sweet corn, both of which are famous along the route. The biggest mistake I see newcomers make is not being prepared for the physical toll RAGBRAI takes. On average, you’ll cover around 67 miles a day, and if you’re not used to riding long distances, it adds up quickly.
Don’t underestimate the importance of sun protection. A good cycling helmet with a visor can shield your face, but you’ll also want SPF 50 sunscreen. Apply generously before you ride and reapply throughout the day. Sunburn can sneak up on you, and trust me, trying to enjoy the ride with blistered skin is a nightmare. I once forgot to reapply during a particularly cloudy day, and it resulted in some pretty gnarly burn lines. Sunglasses with UV protection are critical too, both for blocking the sun and keeping bugs out of your eyes.
Let's not forget the bike tools. At a minimum, you should have a multi-tool, tire levers, and patch kit. A mini pump is non-negotiable. I've seen people stranded for over an hour waiting for the sag wagon because they didn’t bring one. One time, a guy I was riding with blew a tire and had everything he needed to fix it except for a pump. We lent him ours, and he was back on the road in ten minutes. In addition to the basics, a spare tube is essential—I usually carry two. These items might seem like extra weight, but the peace of mind they offer is invaluable.
Don’t skimp on personal care items either. You’ll need a good chamois cream to prevent saddle sores, and baby wipes are really handy for quick cleanups when showers aren’t available. Last year, I saw a guy who had to drop out because of infected saddle sores—it’s not something to take lightly. And, speaking of showers, bring a lightweight microfiber towel. They dry quickly and take up much less space in your bag compared to a traditional towel.
Consider your accommodation options. Whether you’re camping or staying in hotels, having a quality sleeping pad and bag is critical for a good night's sleep. I typically camp, and my sleeping pad packs down to about the size of a loaf of bread while still providing the comfort I need to recover each night. One time, I forgot my pillow and ended up using rolled-up clothes which was less than ideal. Many towns offer housing options, so check online forums ahead of time because spots fill up fast.
Health and hygiene can’t be overlooked. Hand sanitizer is your best friend, especially when portable toilets are your main option. Pack any personal medications you might need for a week, plus a small first aid kit. I always include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and some pain relievers like ibuprofen. You never know when you might take a tumble, and having immediate access to basic first aid can save a lot of trouble. One year, a fellow cyclist fell and scraped his knee pretty badly, and luckily I had enough supplies to get him cleaned up until we reached the next aid station.
Lastly, let’s talk about a few handy extras. I always bring a portable charger for my phone since outlets can be scarce. I’ve seen people fight over the few available charging stations at campsites. Also, a small lock can protect your bike during overnight stops. I once heard about a guy who had his custom-built bike stolen because he didn’t lock it up properly. It’s a rare occurrence but better safe than sorry.
Trust me, RAGBRAI is an adventure of a lifetime. As long as you're prepared, you’ll have an amazing time. For an in-depth guide, check out this RAGBRAI Packing List. It covers all the essentials you need to enjoy your ride.