When the sun’s out and the roads are calling, there’s nothing better than heading out on your bike. But forgetting a few key essentials can quickly cut a great ride short.
Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you stay prepared and make the most of every sunny ride!
Before you set off, make sure you’ve got:
- Storage (rack, pannier bag, or basket)
- Food & drink essentials
- Phone mount or navigation
- Fitness or route tracking device
- Repair kit (pump, tools, puncture kit)
- Transport rack (for longer trips)
Having the right storage
Bikes aren’t well known for their storage space, so you’ll need to add a few accessories if you want to carry more than your rucksack.
Pannier Rack & Bag
Our Halfords Core Disc Brake Pannier Rack is compatible with all types of brakes and fits onto the eyelets already built into the rear of your bike frame. It’s lightweight, can carry up to 25kg, and when combined with the Halfords Core Pannier Bag, you can protect your belongings from any road spray.
Front Basket
For smaller loads, you can carry your things in style with the Pendleton Wicker Style Front Basket, which can carry 14 litres and up to 4.5kg. If you’re happy with a more functional option, the Halfords Wire Bike Basket is a great choice with its strong structure and quick-release mount, making it easy to carry on and off the bike.
Packing the essentials
Once you’ve found your perfect spot, the Halfords Waterproof Tartan Picnic Blanket XL gives you plenty of room to relax.
Add some colour with our Rainbow range of cutlery, bowls, plates and tumblers.
For hot drinks or cooking:
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- Campingaz Bleuet Micro Plus – compact micro gas stove, perfect for minimalist campers or making a quick cup of tea or coffee
- Halfords Complete Cookset Pack – stove, pans and utensils in a portable, easy to carry rucksack
Stay connected on the move
Once you’re on the road, you don’t want to keep stopping to pull out your phone to check where you are or what time it is.
Instead, fix a Halfords Phone Mount to your handlebars and you can easily see your screen while cycling for easy navigation. You could also go for the Halfords Toptube Phone Bag to protect your phone from spray and any surprise showers while gaining some extra storage room.
Keeping track
If you’re all about monitoring and tracking your progress, be it distance or fitness, then we’ve got the latest cycling tech to help.
For route planning and performance tracking:
Garmin Edge Explore 2 GPS Cycle Computer
- Access to multiple routes
- Garmin Cycle Maps
- GroupTrack to stay connected with other riders
Halfords Heart Rate Monitor & Chest Strap
If tracking yourself is just as important as tracking your route, the Halfords Heart Rate Monitor & Chest Strap allows you to keep an eye on your fitness levels by accurately monitoring your heart rate while you’re cycling.
Maintenance while you’re out and about
Looking after your bike is as important as looking after yourself if you want to get the most out of your ride. Carrying the right tools and maintenance kit is the best way to ensure you stay on two wheels.
Essentials include:
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- Hand Pump – attach to your bike or store in your pannier to keep your tyres pumped up and running smoothly
- Halfords Essentials Puncture Repair Kit with Tyre Levers – everything needed for quick puncture fixes
- Halfords Essential 8 Function Multi Tool – ideal for common roadside adjustments
Long-distance adventures
If you’re planning on travelling a little further afield for the day or exploring a new area, your trip may involve a car journey to get there. Our bike racks give you the freedom to head out to wherever you choose with your bikes safely stowed.
Options include:
Saris Bones EX3 Boot Mounted Bike Rack
- Strong, sleek frame
- Carries up to three bikes
- Check compatibility with your vehicle
Halfords Advanced 3 Bike Towbar Mounted Bike Rack
- Ideal for heavier bikes like e‑bikes or MTBs
- Secure towing for up to three bikes
- Drops down so you can still access the boot
Thule ProRide 598 Roof Mounted Bike Rack
- Torque indicator prevents overtightening
- Automatically positions your bike
- Tool‑free fitting
A great bike ride isn’t just about the weather — it’s about being prepared.
With the right accessories, you can:
- Ride further
- Stay comfortable
- Handle unexpected issues
- Enjoy the journey without interruptions
Whether you’re heading out for a short spin or a full-day adventure, a little preparation goes a long way.
Now all that’s left to do is enjoy the ride, breathe in the fresh air and relax in nature!
For lots more cycling must-haves, head over to Halfords.com. Or for advice on everything two-wheeled, visit our cycling help and advice guides which have information for new and experienced cyclists alike.
