Dress

While bikepacking, it is nice to not have to contemplate what I'm going to wear every day -- I usually only have one option. Picking that one option is a bit difficult, though. Like most outdoor activities, the secret is picking good layers. I'll be starting in August when the weather in the northeast is best described as hot and muggy, going through the midwest in early autumn when it cools at night, turning into the rockies where I'll likely encounter snow and rounding out the finish in the desert. Thankfully, my mom has agreed to send me closet changes along the way so I will modify my one outfit as the weather necessitates.

Bottoms: Generally, my biking bottoms are pretty unconventional because I prefer cotton over nylon. Cotton is fairly taboo because it doesn't wick sweat, holds onto moisture and takes a while to dry. But...I think it's a lot more comfortable, especially in the heat. When the weather cools I prefer bamboo/cotton blended leggings and when it's cold I switch to wool.

Tops: In the heat, my top of choice is a light airy "muscle" shirt made from cotton and Tencel Lyocell (made from tree pulp), it's super breathable and the tencel adds moisture wicking. My second layer is a hooded, thin, long-sleeved top with pockets. It adds a little protection from wind/rain, dries very quickly and the hood makes it very cozy. I also carry either a light zip-up running jacket that is designed to keep my core warm while still allowing free movement or a hooded merino zip-up jacket. For more core warmth, I also bring a merino based vest with pockets and a water resistant hood. To top it all off is my most critical layer -- a very good rain jacket. In addition to shielding me from rain/snow, it is also essentially wind proof so it's a great layer for warmth. As it gets colder, I swap out the aforementioned for comparable items in warmer versions. I'm a sucker for the merino.

Feet: Your feet will pedal you far, walk you to places of wonder and hold you up while you dance, remember to thank them. Depending on the temperature, I wear merino based socks of varying height and thickness and I since I don't like clip-in bike shoes, I wear comfy, easy on/off sneakers. Tucked away in my bag I also keep a pair of comfy flip-flops as camp shoes. They're easy wearing and let my feet and toes take a much deserved breather.