FIRST of all, I’d like to thank the below parties for consulting advice and logistical assistance:
Special thanks to John from Atlanta and Bob from Las Vegas for supporting me logistically and helping me learn about bikes. You guys taught me everything I know about cycling, John taught me mechanics and repairs and Bob set me up with my bike, GPS, and guidance. Both of you have been instrumental in my decision to embark on this adventure.
Mike and Paul from Atlanta Pro Bikes offered invaluable advice with open arms to a clueless amateur. They furnished my bike with wonderful tires and an excellent rear rack. People like them are the backbone of a warm community that I did not know existed.
Ezz and Sharif from Spindle Bike Bags Atlanta are two brothers who hand craft unparalleled paneers, frame bags, and other bike packing accessories in a small shop by the Belt Line. The value of their products is unmatched. They have the right philosophy on cycling that prioritizes the raw simplicity of riding versus weight and aerodynamic obsession.
Thank you for your advice, wisdom, and kindness. I will be sure to pay it forward.
Please visit these two shops if you are in the market in Atlanta.
Posting on Monday, April 13th, 2026
Survival Core (must always be accessible):
Water treatment (Sawyer squeeze filter, Sawyer squeeze bottle, Aquamira), Fire (2x lighters, stormproof matches), Medical kit (epinephrine, azithromycin, Imodium, Zofran, Advil, malaria pills), Emergency sleeping bag, Headlamp + extra battery, Garmin inReach (satellite phone/GPS)
The Bike: Ritchey steel frame road bike with mountain bike pedals, shimano 18 speed drive train, continental gravel tires, and some lovely bags handmade by the Hassan brothers in Atlanta.
Below is the gear list, broken down by categories:
Daily Use Kit (grab constantly):
Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss, Deodorant, Sunscreen, Chamois butter, Mini towel, Water bottles (Nalgene, MSR dromedary), Phone cables (USB-C, iPhone), Front & rear bike lights, Snacks (add), Lip balm (if added)
Camp Setup Kit (used at end of day):
Tent (Hyperlite Mid 1), Stakes, Pole, Sleeping pad (Therm-a-Rest Z Lite), Down sleeping bag, Sleeping bag liner, Stove (MSR + fuel bottle), Titanium pot, All-purpose soap, Towel coins, Paracord (for hanging/drying), Bidet, Trowel, Toilet paper
Bike Repair & Maintenance Kit (keep accessible but separate):
Spoke wrench, Allen wrench multi-tool, Philips screwdriver, Adjustable wrench, Chain breaker tool, Tire pump, Pressure gauge, Tire levers (2x), Tube patch kits, Spare tubes (4x), Spare chain, Chain lube, Spare rivets, Brake pads (6x), Spare screws/bolts, Zip ties, Gorilla tape, Straps
Electronics & Power Kit (organized and protected):
OtterBox power bank, 10W solar panel, USB-C charging block, Charging cables (USB-C, micro USB, iPhone), Garmin inReach, Headlamp, Bike lights
Hygiene & Health Kit (group tightly):
All-purpose soap, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss, Deodorant, Sunscreen, Mini towel, Towel coins, Q-tips, Chamois butter, Basic first aid (bandages, antiseptic—add), Medications (Advil, Imodium, Zofran, azithromycin, malaria pills)
Documents & Essentials (secure + redundant):
Passport, Vaccine card, Passport copies/snips
Security & Protection:
Helmet, Bike lock
Utility / “Fix Anything” Kit:
Paracord, Zip ties, Gorilla tape, Small knife, Straps
