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Gear Report

Iceland divide -review of what we brought

By TheBikepack

November 9^th, 2023

Gear Report

Iceland, with its rugged and otherworldly landscapes, is a dream destination for adventure seekers. The Land of Fire and Ice offers a perfect canvas for bikepackers, a place where you can forge your own path through the untouched wilderness, tracing your way through volcanic terrain and glacial rivers.

Preparing for a bikepacking adventure through the rugged terrain of Iceland is a true art form, demanding mastery in the skill of leaving most of your possessions behind.

Drawing upon valuable experience, a key piece of advice is to ensure that you bring cycle gear and bags that are exceptionally waterproof.

Let's be honest, even the most optimistic rider will inevitably face inclement weather, and when the elements unleash their fury, waterproof gear becomes an absolute monarch!

When you distill the essence of packing for an Icelandic expedition, it's about realizing that you don't need the entirety of your possessions for it to become an incredible voyage. That's one of the most beautiful revelations of bikepacking – realising how little is needed.

Remember, simplicity is key. Bring items that serve a specific purpose to avoid redundant gear. Iceland's beauty is enough of a distraction; you don't need a cluttered bag to weigh you down. Pack smart, and you'll be well on your way to conquering the land of fire and ice on two wheels.

Nonetheless, in our experienced opinion, there are some "must-have" items that you should pack to ensure a triumphant journey through the captivating landscapes of Iceland.

Essential Cycling Gear à la TheBikepack

This is our take on what to bring and what to leave home, we hope this will help you on your way to adventures!

The bike and the bags: Your trusty steed and the bags – together they'll carry you through more drama than an Icelandic saga!
Shelter & sleeping gear: Cozy shelter and gear to brave the elements - because Iceland's weather likes to play tricks even on seasoned campers.
Food, hydration and cooking: Fuel for the fire within, and a hot meal when those Icelandic winds try to chill your bones.
Repair Kit and Spares: A toolset to outwit Icelandic terrain – where even the rocks have a taste for bike tires. Bike Repair Kit: Mechanical magic in a bag – because the Icelandic landscape is tough, but you're tougher.
Clothing and Layers: Layers for an Icelandic adventure: Dress like an onion, you'll cry less and cycle more.
Electronics and Extras: Gadgets galore, to capture the epic ride and stay connected when even the Wi-Fi is chilly.
Safety and First Aid: For that 'just in case' moment when the volcanoes aren't the only things blowing off steam.

1. The bike and the bags

- Your trusty steed and the bags, together they’ll carry you through more drama than an Icelandic saga!

Bikes: When it comes to choosing the right bicycle for your Icelandic adventure, think rugged and reliable. Iceland's terrain can be as unpredictable as its weather, so a sturdy and well-maintained bike is your best companion.

We brought two Orbea Alma bikes, hard-tail rugged MTB’s. The perfect bicycle for conquering the unique challenges of crossing Iceland on two wheels. Its exceptional features and performance make it an outstanding choice for our epic adventure.

The Alma is a full out carbon fiber monster sporting a lightweight but sturdy build. A perfect companion in the steep climbs and the rocky and shaky accents. A durable workhorse with responsible handling and a comfortable yet sporty geometry. This is a “go fast all day” kind of bike if the terrain allows for it. A stranger at first but a dear friend by the end of the trip and a bike we would share any future adventure with!

Check out more about the Alma bike here --> Link

Bags: When selecting bikepacking bags, prioritize waterproof options. The ever-changing Icelandic weather can test even the most optimistic travelers, so keeping your gear dry is a game-changer. Opt for lightweight gear to minimize the weight you carry and make those challenging ascents a little easier.

We teamed up with our friends at Tailfin cycling who are absolute pro's at technical bikepacking equipment. They did not shy away from the challenge of joining us on our Iceland divide adventure.

Aeropack Carbon Seat Pack - The Tailfin Aeropack Carbon Seat Pack is an engineering marvel. Designed to fit seamlessly under your saddle, it offers aerodynamic advantages while providing ample storage space. Made from carbon fiber, it's as sturdy as it is lightweight. In Iceland, where bumpy lava fields and gravel roads are the norm, the Aeropack's durability ensures your gear stays safe and secure. It's waterproof, so sudden downpours won't be a problem, and its sleek design keeps you streamlined as you battle headwinds on open stretches.
Ultra-Durable Pannier Bag - Iceland's diverse terrain means you'll encounter everything from river crossings to muddy trails. Tailfin's Ultra-Durable Pannier Bag is an adventurer's dream. Its robust build and waterproof material make it ideal for harsh Icelandic conditions. With a 24-liter capacity, you'll have room for essentials and more. This bag's versatility is unmatched, and its quick-release mounting system ensures it stays attached through the most challenging of situations.
Downtube Packs - When cycling through the jagged lava landscapes, your gear needs to be well-distributed for optimal balance and handling. Tailfin's Downtube Packs are a game-changer. They seamlessly fit on your bike's frame and offer accessible storage for smaller items like tools, snacks, and your camera for capturing those jaw-dropping views. Their secure attachment means you can focus on the ride, not the gear.
Cargo Cage System - Iceland's remote areas and long stretches between towns mean you need to carry extra supplies. Tailfin's Cargo Cage System makes this easy. It attaches to your bike frame and accommodates an array of bags, from dry sacks to extra water bottles. The robust design ensures your cargo stays put, even when navigating rough terrains.

Why we love the Tailfin's Gear - Tailfin's gear isn't just a random collection of cycling equipment; it's an integrated system designed to work seamlessly together. The Tailfin Aeropack Carbon Seat Pack complements the Ultra-Durable Pannier Bag and Downtube Packs, creating a unified setup that's optimized for our unique challenges of Iceland. The waterproof, durable materials ensure that our gear remains dry and protected, no matter the weather. The quick-release mounting system, designed for easy use, guarantees you can adapt your gear setup as the terrain changes, keeping your ride smooth and enjoyable.

Moreover, Tailfin's gear is built to be aerodynamic, a feature that might not seem immediately important until you're battling strong headwinds on the desolate Icelandic roads. The gear's sleek design will help you cut through the wind and conserve your energy.

See more about the Tailfin technical bikepacking equipment here --> Link

2. Shelter & sleeping gear

Cozy shelter and gear to brave the elements - because Iceland's weather likes to play tricks even on seasoned campers.

The harsh Icelandic climate demands robust shelter and comfortable sleeping gear. Tent options are plentiful, with ultralight options being a popular choice. An ultralight tent is your haven from the biting cold and the unpredictable weather. Iceland's unique terrain, with its rocky landscapes and minimal vegetation, often makes traditional setups impractical or even impossible. Instead, your shelter and sleeping gear should be self-contained and adaptable to Iceland's stark and unpredictable weather conditions without being dependent on external support structures that may not be readily available.

Ultralight Tent: A fully enclosed shelter that keeps the bugs and elements at bay. This is a good place to save some weight if you can fit a light weight tent into your budget.

When it comes to sleeping gear, prioritize comfort and slam size to get a good night's sleep in Iceland's wild terrain and a good day riding.

Sleeping Bag: Opt for (if possible) a down sleeping bag as these can compress to a considerably smaller size then the synthetic counterpart - a vital factor when bikepacking. We went with a 3 season sleeping down sleeping back as our trip was going to put us in all kinds of weather and temperatures.
Sleeping Pad: There are both inflatable or closed-cell foam options, the first is the smallest and lightest option and hence also our recommendation. Ensure your sleeping pad has a sufficient R-value to keep you warm.
Pillow: Keeping to the motto of traveling light our pillows for the trip were created by stuffing clothes in our sleeping bag bags.

3. Food, hydration and cooking

- Fuel for the fire within, and a hot meal when those Icelandic winds try to chill your bones.

Iceland's remote beauty often means limited access to food and water. To stay energized, you'll need the right kitchen and water equipment. We packed food for two people and 10 days of cycling, adding in a couple of days extra food in case of an emergency.

Food: We opted for dry food packs for most of our meals from 24 hours melas. The dry pack meals are lightweight, space-efficient, and an energy-rich food source. With the limited storage capacity of your bike bags, you need efficient and space-saving food options. Another benefit is minimum preparation time. Dry food packs are often ready to eat or require minimal preparation, saving you time and effort. Just add water, and you have a quick, hearty meal. And last but not least, they taste great, an absolute treat after a long day cycling!

Food and cooking - More like adventure fuel and gourmet survival tactics for your epic Icelandic ride!

Stove: We brought a ultra light backpack stove that you simply attached to a fuel bottle, this was the lightest set up possible and worked great for boiling water and cooking food.
Lighter: Our stove had a built-in lighter but it is always a good ide to bring a spare lighter in case of need.
Pot: A 0.7-1.5 liter titanium pot is ideal for its weight savings and durability, used to boil water for the adventure dry food we brought.
Mug: Our only water cups were the two cycle drinking flasks we brought on the bikes.
Spork: A minimalist utensil is handy. The Snowpeak Titanium Spork is a favorite among bikepackers.
Knife: We brought a folding knife as part of our multi-tool, this served as our all in one knife for all purposes.
Coffee Maker: We don't drink coffee, great way to save some weight on the packing and some weight in the morning.

Hydration: When it comes to water, you must carry enough to stay hydrated between water sources. Iceland offers many glacier rivers, this may be a tempting water source but not to be recommended as there can be many pollutants and hazardous bacteria stored in the ice over a long time and then released into the melting water.

Your best bet when it comes to water on a ride like the Iceland divide is in our experience to 1. bring as much as you can 2. The mountain huts do have water but this is nothing you should 100% rely on.

Standard Bottles, Oversized Bottles, Bladders: Choose a combination that suits your needs, and ensure your bike is equipped with water bottle cages.
Water Filter or Purification Tablets: Prepare for various water sources by packing a filter or purification tablets.

4. Repair Kit and Spares

- A toolset to outwit Icelandic terrain – where even the rocks have a taste for bike tires.

The Icelandic backcountry can be unforgiving, and a bike malfunction in the middle of nowhere is a daunting prospect. Your repair kit should include:

Multi-Tool: Ensure it has all the necessary Allen and Torx bits for your bike.
Chain Breaker: A must-have for repairing a broken chain.
Master Link Pliers: Essential for chain repair.
Chain Lube: A small bottle will suffice for most trips, but adjust based on your environment.
Duct Tape: Wrap a few winds around your mini-pump for various repairs and patches. (This is a must have)
Zip Ties: These can be handy for a variety of fixes, from securing cables to fixing a broken tent. (This is a must have)

When it comes to tire repair, ensure you have the necessary tools for a tubeless setup:

Mini Pump: Opt for a high-volume pump to handle larger tires.
Tire Plugs: Carry both smaller and oversized plugs.
Extra Sealant: Pack extra sealant for puncture repairs; Orange Seal Endurance is a popular choice.
Spare Tube(s): Carry 1-3 tubes, depending on the duration of your trip.
Tire Lever(s): Pedro's tire levers are a preferred option.
Curved Needle and Nylon Thread: Essential for stitching up a torn sidewall.
Tire Boot(s): Have one or two tire boots for badly torn sidewalls.
Super Glue: Handy for securing plugs or stitched areas.
Patch Kit with Rubber Cement: Useful in case you have to resort to a tube.
CO2 and Nozzle: Not necessary but helpful for reseating tubeless seals.

Be prepared for various mechanical failures with the right spares: A spare tire? No, but a spare sense of humor, definitely! It's your best tool for any unexpected bumps in the road.

Master Links: Make sure they match your chain.
Derailleur Hanger: This is essential because they can easily bend or break, especially in rough terrain.
Brake Pads: Pack 2-4 pairs, depending on the length of your trip.
Spare Cleats: If you're using clipless/SPD shoes, it's wise to have spare cleats.
Spare Cables: Carry spare brake and shifter cables for longer and more remote trips. This is an item that we added retrospectively as we had a break cable break on the trip and no spare to repair with.

5. Clothing and Layers

- Layers for an Icelandic adventure: Dress like an onion, you'll cry less and cycle more.

Iceland's climate is ever-changing, and packing the right clothing is essential for comfort and safety. A layered approach is the way to go. It's essential to embrace the "Onion Theory." Just like peeling the layers of an onion, consider your clothing in multiple, versatile layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your body. Next, add an insulating layer to trap warmth in the chilly Icelandic air. Your outer shell should be waterproof and windproof to shield you from the unpredictable weather. Remember, it's easier to regulate your temperature by adding or removing layers as needed. By following the Onion Theory, you'll be prepared for any climate and enjoy a comfortable cycling adventure through Iceland's stunning landscapes.

On You: Layers - Because Iceland's weather mood swings are wilder than a rollercoaster ride!

A helmet that you love, you will wear it a lot - here's the Sweet helmet that we wear! Love it to death! --> Link
Short ir long bibs
Wool T-shirt or jersey - can help you stay comfortable, regulate your body temperature, and ensure your clothing remains fresh throughout your adventure
Wool socks
Shoes (flat-pedal or SPD)
Gore-tex gloves
Sunglasses
Lightweight rain jacket gore-tex (must have)
Lightweight rain pants gore-tex (must have)

Spares/Off-Bike: Choosing the right spares is like finding the right travel buddy - they've got your back in Iceland's tricky situations!

Wool socks
T-shirt
Shorts or lightweight pants
Underwear
Chamois/bibs
Long-sleeve merino top or button-down shirt
Lightweight down/synthetic jacket (optional)
Buff or bandana
Camp shoes or sandals

Toiletries: Stay fresh amid Iceland's wild beauty – you're an adventurer, not a yeti!

Toothbrush, toothpaste
Toilet paper
Lightweight trowel
Sunscreen/lip balm
Personal hygiene products

6. Electronics and Extras

Gadgets galore, to capture the epic ride and stay connected when even the Wi-Fi is chilly.

In today's digital age, electronics and extras are a necessity for staying connected and entertained during downtime:

Electronics: Don't let Iceland's cool vibes freeze your gadgets – charge up and ride on!

Phone
Cycling GPS
Charging cables for your divices
Outlet charger cube
Powerbank battery pack (10,000+ mAh)
Headlamp
Camera (with extra SD cards, batteries, and charger)

7. Safety and First Aid

For that 'just in case' moment when the volcanoes aren't the only things blowing off steam.

Safety is paramount when embarking on a bikepacking adventure in Iceland's remote wilderness. Prepare for emergencies with:

Safety:
Satellite messenger or tracker (essential if you're traveling through areas without cell service, such as SPOT devices)
Backup maps and GPX tracks (carry backups on a GPS unit and phone)
Rear blinkie light
Emergency whistle
First Aid Kit (Minimalist):
Basic first aid articles
Irrigation syringe (20cc)
Povidone-Iodine (Betadine) prep pads or a small bottle
Tweezers
Butterfly bandages or Steri-Strips
Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin, Polysporin)

Get Ready for the Adventure ⛰️

Strap on your helmet and saddle up, because Iceland's cycle trip is the wildest 'chill' ride of your life!

As you embark on your epic bikepacking adventure through Iceland, make sure you're well-prepared with the right gear. Research your route thoroughly, understand the climate, and plan for potential weather changes. Iceland's breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain await, and with the right equipment, you'll be ready for a truly unforgettable adventure. So, gear up, saddle up, and get ready to conquer the Land of Fire and Ice on your trusty steed!