RAGBRAI, a.k.a. the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa, happens at the end of July every year. It spans a week and covers around 400 to 500 miles from the Missouri River on Iowa’s western edge to the Mississippi River on the eastern side. Imagine this: people start planning for this as early as January. Seriously, some cyclists begin their training up to seven months before the actual ride.
Let’s dive into the essentials. Firstly, you can't afford to leave packing to the last few days. I personally start gathering my gear roughly three to four weeks before the event. This gives plenty of time to make sure nothing crucial gets forgotten. For instance, last year, I realized my old bike shorts had worn out completely, leaving me scrambling just two weeks out to find the right pair. It's little things like these that really heighten the necessity of preparing weeks in advance.
Surprisingly, how early you start affects your overall experience. Planning out 20 to 25 days ahead isn’t just about having enough gear. It’s about making sure your bike is tuned up, and you’ve got the mechanics sorted out. Bike shops can get crowded close to the event. According to one shop in Des Moines, they see a 30% spike in bike tune-ups and gear purchases during July. Showing up late means possibly waiting more than a week for service.
Packing also involves purchasing the right nutrition. Counting energy gels, snacks, and electrolyte drinks, you’ll burn around 2,000 to 3,000 calories each day of riding. This means packing accordingly. Some seasoned riders like Brenda Long, noted in a 2020 interview, carry roughly 3 pounds of snacks and supplements for the week. Now, these aren’t just regular snacks. We're talking high-performance, energy-dense foods.
Why even focus on the detailed list to pack? Consider the last time I didn’t prepare well. I forgot my hydration pack, and that was a near-disaster. The weather hit 95°F plus humidity. Endurance experts suggest staying hydrated can improve performance by upwards of 10%. While a simple water bottle might suffice for short rides, a hydration pack (around 1.5 to 3 liters) makes a huge difference in maintaining energy levels and focus.
Another key element is clothing. Plan for all sorts of weather. Last year, we experienced a downpour mid-week that had everyone drenched. Having a lightweight, waterproof jacket is non-negotiable. Failure to pack this simple item could leave you in a cold mess that could derail your entire experience. My mantra: “Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”
Let’s talk sleeping arrangements. For those camping, packing gear like tents and sleeping bags can’t be left to the last minute. Products sell out, and waiting until July could mean paying up to 15% more on camping essentials due to high demand. A good tent, for example, one suitable for at least three seasons, typically costs between $100 to $250. I snagged a great deal on mine by shopping well in advance, saving about $50 compared to last-minute prices.
Electronics often get overlooked in the rush. Cameras, smartphones, GPS devices, and their associated chargers should have dedicated space in your gear. Imagine finishing an exhilarating day only to find your phone dead. Given that around 50% of riders rely on digital maps, you don’t want to be caught without power.
Lastly, preparing early also gives you time to check things like first aid kits. Every rider should carry one. Accidents, though rare, do happen. And biking over several hundred miles inevitably leads to small injuries—blisters, chafing, or minor cuts. Industry professionals recommend a small, easily packable kit, retailing for about $20 to $30, to be part of your essential items. Most of all, you’ll ride with peace of mind.
If you need a comprehensive RAGBRAI Packing List, there are plenty of guides available online. Feel free to tailor them based on your personal preferences and needs. However you decide to prepare, remember that starting early makes all the difference.