Bikepacking Gear That Lasts: A Gift Guide

Updated December, 2022

For our ongoing gift guide, we’ve decided to take a step back, comb through our assorted belongings, and separate the gear we’ve really put through the grinder — and never leave home without. So, as the year draws to a close, allow us to offer a gift guide in the form of a curated collection of some of our most cherished bikepacking gear, much of which has already given us several years of service.

Most importantly, all of the gear included has exceeded our expectations in the realm of durability, perhaps one of the most important factors in choosing bikepacking gear. Indeed, everything featured in this gift guide has already stood the test of time. It’s all survived the wrath of the elements. And it’s all gear that’s so well designed, it still gives us a small amount of joy each and every time we use it… just as we hope it will to your lucky someone.

This list was originally compiled by editors Logan Watts, Cass Gilbert, and Lucas Winzenburg back in 2017 and was updated in November, 2021. It’s organized by price, from least expensive to most costly. Each piece of gear includes a link to a review if applicable, the name of who it’s been recommended by, and links to where it can be purchased.

If you’re interested in purchasing any of these products, please support your local bike shop and buy from them when possible. If you can’t, or they’re only obtainable online, we’ve provided links to manufacturers and stores where they are currently available; some of these retailers offer a meager referral fee, which helps support this platform. This has no bearing on the review or selection.

GSI Compact Scraper, $5

The GSI Outdoors Compact Scraper is one of those little items I never leave at home when heading out on a big trip. You can essentially ‘wash’ your camp pot with nothing but, licking it clean after every scrape. Sounds kind of gross, but it works like a charm. -Logan

Available at REI AMZN

Nite Ize Figure 9, $5

Another item that always makes it into the frame bag. The Nite Ize Figure 9 kit comes with the small carabiner and 16 feet of rip cord, perfect for drying out gear or clothing. -Logan

Available at REI AMZN

Orange Seal Endurance Tubeless Sealant, $9+

I’ve been using Orange seal Endurance almost exclusively for the last few years. IMO, it’s the best option on the market for long trips. It seems to never dry out, even in desert climates. -Logan

Available at Backcountry Jenson AMZN

Voile Straps, $8

Perhaps the must useful and durable accessory that every bikepacker should own, Voile straps come in several sizes and can be used to hold bags in place, or strap stuff (sandals, poles, food, or whatever) to bags. A bikepacking necessity that we’ve used on almost every trip. We recommend the versatile 25″ or 32″ options, which can be trimmed down if need be. -Logan

Available at Campfire REI AMZN

Snow Peak Ti Spork, $10

This is one of those little inanimate objects I’ve grown quite attached to. It’s been on almost every trip I’ve taken since 2012… and I may have even had nightmares about losing it. -Logan

Available at Backcountry REI AMZN

Lezyne Power Cage, $11

I have said it before and I’ll say it again… it’s absolutely amazing how durable these cages are. I have a couple that probably have over 10,000 miles on them. -Logan

Available at Jenson AMZN

Opinel knife NO 8, $18

These French-made knives are design classics: they’re well made, surprisingly affordable, and look better and better over time. Mine goes everywhere with me; perfect for slicing open an avocado or chopping up an apple and serving with peanut butter. -Cass

Available at REI AMZN

Trangia Alcohol Stove, $26

Despite the speed and convenience of pressurised cannister stoves, I’m a diehard Trangia fan. The alcohol burner pictured has been all around South America with nary a complaint. Made from brass, it’s significantly tougher than a homemade Hop Can Cooker and features a handy simmer control for semi-gourmet cooking. Combined with the US-made Clickstand (see review), it makes a fantastic, lightweight, low maintenance cooking system, using a fuel that can be sourced almost everywhere in the world. Available in Stainless Steel and the slightly more costly Carbon Steel.-Cass

Available at AMZN

Wolf Tooth WT-1 Chain Lube, $19

WT-1 Chain Lube, which is designed to clean, protect, and last up to five times longer than other chain lubes. We’ve been using it for several months now and have been extremely impressed with how long it lasts. As part of the test, after proper application over three cycles, I washed my bike and continued to ride it squeak-free for over 150 miles. -Logan

Available at Wolf Tooth

Sawyer Mini Water Filter, $22

This has been my water filter of choice for years now. The bags can be iffy — I have had a few break – so carry a couple. However, the filter itself is reliable, light and inexpensive. -Logan

Available at AMZN REI

King Cage Iris, $26

Another fantastic bottle cage that’s withstood thousands of miles of abuse. We’ve been running King Cage stainless steel cages on bikes since 2012, without any issues. The made in the USA Iris cage is particularly useful with the Klean Kanteen 27oz bottle. -Logan

Buy at King Cage

DeFeet Woolie Boolie Socks, $22

With a comfy, odor-resistant, and breathable 70% Merino Wool, 27% Nylon, 3% Lycra yarn blend, the DeFeet Woolie Boolie is a favorite among several of our editors. I have three pairs and pretty much wear them exclusively, almost all year long. They also seem to be more durable than many of the socks we’ve used. -Logan

Available at AMZN Trek

Vargo DIG DIG Tool, $25

Be a good bikepacker and follow the Leave No Trace principles. This titanium trowel is super light and tough enough to dig catholes in rocky terrain, ideal for those morning ablutions. I’ve been using this Ti Dig Dig tool for years and can’t imagine ever having to replace it. -Logan

Available at REI

Giro DND Gloves, $25

I’ve never had gloves last longer than a season. Giro’s DND gloves have changed that statistic with a durable leather palm, no weird padding stitched in, and a simple design. And I just got a pair of the D’Wool version which I like as well (although they aren’t quite as long-lasting). -Logan

Available at AMZN

Ergon Grips, $25-35

Ergon’s shapely grips stand up to a lot of use. And, they are an absolute necessity for long-distance bikepacking rides. Cass and Lucas prefer the GP1, while Logan likes the less GA3 for singletrack exploits and touring.

Available at GP1 (AMZN) GA3 (AMZN) GA3 (Jenson)

Klean Kanteen Classic (27oz), $26

This particular bottle has been on almost every trip I’ve taken and has become something of a keepsake. It works perfectly for carrying water under the downtube, keeping out residue from livestock and other unwanted mud. -Logan

Available at AMZN

Leatherman Squirt PS4, $55

The Leatherman Squirt PS4 hasn’t been around for as long as the Juice shown here — which I’ve had since 2002 — but I can tell it’s going to be a solid replacement that’s substantially lighter and smaller than its predecessor. A bikepacking toolkit must. -Logan

Available at AMZN

Wald Basket, $35

The venerable Wald 137 is the basketpacker’s basket of choice. Zip tied to a front platform rack, it’s a cheap and easy way to get you touring, one that’s so practical it might just end up staying on your rig full time, both for weekend adventures and grocery runs at home. The 137 is my recommended size, or try the enormous 139 if you need more room. Invented by Grandpa Wald and made in the US since 1905! -Cass

Available at AMZN Campfire

Randi Jo Wool Flip Up Hat, $42

Come winter, I always dig out my woolen Flip Up Hat. It’s stylish, beautifully made, and extremely well priced, especially given its Oregonian origins. I’m sorry I won’t be anywhere cold enough this year to wear it! (Modeled here by Jay Richey, on location in Peru) -Cass

Available at RandiJoFab

Subscription to Gaia, $40 per year

Sure, there are many free navigation apps on the market. But I consider Gaia GPS a bargain at $40 a year, given the range of maps that come included – including excellent topo and land ownership maps for the US – the frequent updates, and the reliable platform. It’s especially well tailored to iPhones. -Cass

Available at Gaia

Bedrock Sinbad Stash Bag, $46

Durango, Colorado-based Bedrock Bags has perfected the downtube accessory bag. The Sinbad Stash Sack is a sweet little roll-top accessory bag that can store tools, spares, fluids, or other miscellaneous items while out mountain biking or bikepacking. As shown in this writeup, the Sinbad carried our second spare tube, a tire lever, a 4oz container of Orange Seal tire sealant, and a large bottle of chain lube. And, of course, it seems to be indestructible. -Logan

Available at Bedrock Bags

One-Up Composite Pedals, $59

Plastic pedals for bikepacking!? Indeed. Not only did this pair survived over 2,000 miles of bikepacking and trail riding in Armenia, Colorado, and New Mexico, they’re still in great working order. OneUp nailed the size of these pedals. They aren’t too wide, and they’re not too small, either. That, paired with their impeccable grip, makes them both Logan and Virginia’s favorite pedal for bike travel. -Logan

Available at Backcountry AMZN

Oveja Negra Chuckbucket, $60

The Chuckbucket is one of my favourite handlebar snack bags. Mine hauls a 1L water bottle, or various camera lenses, or sometimes I just cram it with Lara bars, a phone, and a pair of sunglasses. I love the Wack Pack color combo, constructed from fabric offcuts, and perfect for adding a splash of technicolor to your ride. -Cass

Available at Campfire

Ottolock, $65

Although I’d never recommend relying on a lightweight lock like this for bike security in a major city – even for the very shortest of times – the 120g Otto Lock is perfect for quick resupplies in provincial towns, cafe stops, or securing bikes together at a campsite. Despite its compact pack size (46-152cm), it cinches tightly around awkward street furniture. -Cass

Available at AMZN

King Cage Many Thing Cage, $60

Despite its helium-like weight and a deceptively simple design, the titanium Many Things Cage is more than capable of carrying a 64oz Klean Kanteen without so much as a murmur. Made in the US, it includes two ultra grippy voile straps, whose virtues we extol above. I often team mine with ATM’s Many Things Sack. -Cass

Available at King Cage

ABUS Bordo Lite 6055, $60

Weighing in at a scant 440g (15.5 oz), the ABUS Bordo Lite 6055 has become my go-to travel lock on bikepacking trips. It’s secure enough to offer more than enough peace of mind for those times when I have to step away from the bike, and takes up next to no space in my frame bag. -Lucas

Available at AMZN

One Up EDC Pump (100cc), $65

We tested a lot of tools and pumps, and OneUp’s EDC was one that we wouldn’t have expected to become a favorite. We expected tiny, useless tools, and plasticky equipment prone to failure. However, in the end, the EDC pump works remarkably well, and the entire system is superbly built and cleverly designed. It’s easy to toss in the bag and trust that you’ll have everything you’ll need, which is especially true since OneUp added the tire plug tool integration and chainlink pliers. The EDC Tool and Pump is an excellent solution for day rides and bikepacking alike… and it’s stood the test of time. The one shown above is still going strong many years and trips later. -Logan

Available at Jenson AMZN

SILCA T-RATCHET, $65

The Silca T-Ratchet is one of the most versatile, precise, and complete bit driver tools we’ve seen. Silca spared no expense when it came to designing this tool set. From its waxed canvas carrying case, complete with magnetic closure buttons, to an extremely well-made ratcheting handle that can be reconfigured with high-power magnets, the T-Ratchet is of exceedingly high quality, to say the least. Check it out in our Bit-Driver Tool Low Down.

Available at Backcountry REI Silca

Anker Powerport Solar, $80

Looking for a more economical alternative to a dynamo hub? The Anker Powerport Solar is powerful enough to charge two devices at once, whether on a bluebird day or under cloudy conditions. It’s plenty tough for the longest of bike expeditions and several years later, and at the time of this update in 2021, it’s still going strong in Mexico. It’s also come into its own in recent times when hanging out in restaurants (and charging devices) is best avoided. Read the Review.-Cass

Available at AMZN

Lezyne Micro Floor Drive HV, $70

The Micro Floor Drive HV continues to make our list based on its efficiency — to match the need of voluminous plus tires — in a compact, bikepacking size. This is one durable piece of equipment. It even works to pump a suspension fork. It’s also the only pump we’ve found that can reseat a tubeless seal on the trail. -Logan

Available at Backcountry AMZN

Wolf Tooth Morse Cage, $70

To me, Wolf Tooth’s Morse Cage is pretty much the perfect bottle cage. Handbuilt in Minnesota, they boast 32mm of vertical adjustment, are super strong, and won’t mar your bottles. And for the gram-counting bikepacker they weigh just 33 grams each. -Lucas

Available at Wolf Tooth

Revelate Egress Pocket, $75

This is, hands down, my favorite accessory pocket. It’s waterproof and the padded insert provides just the right amount support. Perfect for a camera carrying duties. I now have quite a few miles on this one and I’m sure it will last plenty more. Read the review. -Logan

Available at REI Revelate

Jones Loop H-bar, $85-145

I’m all about comfort on my bike. I’ve run Jones’ iconic H-bars – the aluminum Bend and Loop varieties – for several years, on all manner of bikes. Their unusually generous, 45 degree sweep works wonders for taking all the strain from your wrists, while the Loop version doubles as a handy console for attaching all kinds of electronic gadgetry, with nifty pockets now available to fill the ‘hole’. -Cass

Available at Jones

HELINOX CHAIR ZERO, $130

I may have sworn off carrying frivolous earthly possessions on my bike at some point, but there’s no denying the pleasure that comes from having a comfortable camp chair during a bikepacking outing. Helinox’s Chair Zero offers a comfy perch that weighs just over a pound. I’ve taken this one on nearly every local overnighter and bikefishing trip I’ve taken since I got it. A friends’s has also held up for years. -Logan

Available at REI Helinox

Wolf Tooth CAMO System + Stainless Ring, $99

We’re big fans of the Wolf Tooth CAMO chainring system. Better yet, they offer a seemingly invincible stainless chainring. You can get the whole system for $130 and then just swap out the rings. It’s a good long-term solution. -Logan

Available at Wolf Tooth

Samsung T5 500GB, $140

Given the rattly nature of bikepacking – and how hard it is on gear – backing up valuable photos and data securely on tour is incredibly important. Samsung’s T series solid-state drives are the size of a small cookie. Pictured to the right is the older T3 model which is still going strong, though I now also have the T5 as well. Although they’re considerably more expensive than their optical brothers, they’re smaller, lighter and far, far more reliable. Mine has been all around South America with me and I always carry one for backups wherever I go. -Cass

Available at AMZN

Vargo BOT 700, $100

The original Vargo BOT (on the left) is a primo piece of equipment. This one’s been to hell and back, almost literally as its been in fires, on all types of stoves, and bounced around a frame bag to no end. Now I am using the Vargo BOT 700 on solo outings. With handles it doubles as a mug! -Logan

Available at AMZN Campfire

Revelate Designs Tangle Frame Bag, $105

If there is one frame bag you should buy, it’s the Revelate Tangle. I actually have a pair, a medium and a large. Between the two, they can fit any hardtail or gravel bike I’ll ever ride. And with an organizer pocket, a big burly zip, and stretch fabric around the sipper, they are bombproof and a pleasure to use. -Logan

Available at REI Campfire

Roll Top HIP Packs, $110+

While we tried a lot of great hip packs over the years, but if you’re looking for one that lasts, a zipper less roll-top design is the way to go. The Oveja Negra Royale was one that rose to the top of our list of favorites. Like Oveja’s other Salida-made bags, the Royale is colorful and well-designed. It features a quick to open roll-top closure and a comfortable waist belt. Rockgeist’s waterproof Big Dumpling has been our other most widely used hip pack. With its generous size and a quick roll-top opening, it’s perfect for camera carrying duties. And the fact that it offers trustworthy protection from the elements made it a favorite piece for both Miles and Logan.

Available at Campfire Rockgeist

Brooks Cambium C17, $120-$170

These days, I’m running some variation of the Brooks Cambium C17 on all of my bikes. Made of vulcanized rubber with a nylon cover, they’re weatherpropof, durable, good looking, and comfortable right out of the box. Mine have been through two years of constant use and show only minor signs of wear. -Lucas

Available at REI

Hope F20 pedals, $180

These Hope F20 pedals have helped propel me on almost every bikepacking trip since I first reviewed them. Despite many challenging miles (and no shortage of ungainly bashes against rocks), the bearings are running as buttery smooth as ever and the pins have barely dulled (beware your shins!). I find their cupped shape ideal for a wide variety of footwear. Well worth the investment. Update 2021 – after years of hard use, one pedal failed and was replaced by Hope. Turnaround was quick and I’m back to using them full time again.-Cass

Available at AMZN

Sea to Summit UL Sleeping Mat, $150-170

I absolutely love these Sea to Summit pads, both the insulated and non-insulated variety. They’re tough (for an air mattress) and super comfortable (given their diminutive pack size). Best of all, they inflate quicker than anything else I’ve tried, a perk that I’m especially appreciative of by the end of a long day’s ride. Read the review. -Cass

Available at REI

NZO Sifter/Scuffer Shorts, $160

The best shorts I’ve ever owned, period. The Sifters are the men’s and Scuffers are women’s. Chances are, the the Sifters are sold out. So harass NZO, because they are worth the wait. -Logan

Available at NZO

Oddity Razorbars, $160

Oddity’s Razorbars are vy with Jones’ H-bars as my handlebar of choice. They’re a generous 800m wide, with a sweep of 15 degrees, a posture-friendly rise of 45mm, and a range of finishes. And here’s the best news: custom mods don’t incur any upcharge! I requested a 30-degree backsweep, which I find perfect for both trail riding and dirt road touring. They’re lovingly made in Colorado, they’re as tough as a crowbar, and being fabricated from steel, I don’t doubt they’ll last forever! -Cass

Available at Oddity Cycles

OMBRAZ Classics Sunglasses, $150

Ombraz’s Classics Sunglasses are an impressive marriage of form and function. In place of the arms that support typical glasses, the Ombraz have an adjustable cord that keeps them in place. And since they stay around your neck, that also makes them hard to lose. The armless design means they’re super lightweight and, in turn, ridiculously comfortable, as they don’t place any pressure on the temples or ears. What’s more, the hingeless design makes them nearly bombproof and the flat profile takes up negligible space in any pack. The lenses are also quite tough and scratch resistant. -Virginia

Available at Ombraz

Rivendell Mark’s Rack, $160

Although I’ve largely abandoned bike racks, given their often unnecessary weight and bulk for bikepacking, lightweight and minimal front racks continue to have a place in my setup. My favourite is Rivendell’s Mark’s Rack. Based on a Nitto classic, it’s beautifully made, built to last, with a stoutness that belies its delicate profile. I’ve used this rack for both supporting a wald basket and to support a saddlebag, like BXB’s excellent Goldback.-Cass

Available at Rivendell

REVELATE PRONGHORN, $145-160

The Revelate Pronghorn has probably seen the most use out of handlebar harness or roll that I’ve used since it was released in 2018. The Pronghorn features and incredibly simple and lightweight design that manages to remain quite stable, despite its minimal construction. It’s also held up extremely well over the years. Read our initial review here. -Logan

Available at Revelate

SHIMANO DEORE XT SPD Pedals, $156

Based on our ultra-long-term testing, Shimano SPD pedals are simply the most indestructible pedals we’ve seen. Back in 2014, I purchased my first set of Shimano XT PD-M780 pedals, and the rest is history. After tens of thousands of miles, it’s clear the XT PD-M780 simply can’t be beat. -Neil

Available at Backcountry AMZN

Ortlieb Handlebar-pack, $165

After putting more time and miles in with this handlebar roll, it continues to impress. I’ve taken this setup on tons of small trips as well as bigger trips such as our jaunt across Cuba, the Trans-WNC, and others. Read the review. -Logan

Available at Ortlieb REI Campfire

Ortlieb Seat-Pack 11L, $170

We’ve both been fans of Ortlieb’s Seat-Pack M since it was released in 2016—and are still using that same bag on a regular basis. It has a no-nonsense design that’s waterproof, the perfect size, easy to use, and works with a dropper post—in conjunction with the Wolf Tooth Valais seatpost clamp. For 2020, Ortlieb reworked their entire line of bags with a matte black fabric and a few other details. The latest model got a bungee cord on the back for lashing on a layer or other gear, as well as a cord loop puller to release an air-bleed valve. -Logan

Available at Campfire Ortlieb REI

Revelate Terrapin Seat Bag, $179-189

This Terrapin has traveled across the Altravesur, through Cuba, and on tons of other trips. It is still in perfect condition and waterproof. One of my favorite bags, without a doubt. -Logan

Available at REI (8L) Campfire (14L)

Nemo Tensor Insulated, $189

The Nemo Tensor Insulated pad has been put through the wringer over several years noe and keeps on ticking. It’s incredibly comfortable and its thicker bottom fabric seems to prevent punctures with the best of ’em. In fact, I’m convinced that it’s the most durable inflatable sleeping pad out there, and it’s one of the most comfortable. -Logan

Available at Backcountry REI

45NRTH Ragnarok, $195

The 45NRTH Ragnarok has proven to be an excellent shoulder season in shoulder season and winter months. It’s not overly bulky, it’s warm and comfortable, and most importantly, very durable. Neil mentioned, “this shoe is going on five years of use, and it’s still rocking and rolling. Love these shoes.” -Neil

Available at REI

Kitsbow HASKELL SHORTS, $220

Equally as impressive is the Haskell short. I haven’t tracked it to 100% accuracy, but when I piece together all the bikepacking trips on which I’ve worn my nearly four-year-old pair, as well as the countless trail rides, I think I have close to 7,000 miles on them. They are still in great shape, barring a hole in the righthand mesh pocket, which Kitsbow says they’d repair. They’ve changed the Haskell a little since I got them. This pair is the original, which was about 10″ in length. Now they’re available in either 8″ or 11″ lengths. I recently picked up a pair of the 11″ versions to try out and they fit and feel quite similar, so I foresee a long and happy relationship with them. Unfortunately, the Haskell is only available in Men’s sizes/fits at this moment.

Available at Kitsbow

Kitsbow Icon, $250+

I’m not one to recommend a riding shirt that costs $220 unless it’s good. Really good. Hand on heart, I wore the Pendleton wool Icon every day for nine weeks solid – often at high altitude – in Ecuador and Peru. I washed in once… and it still looks absolutely brand new. I’m a creature of habit; the Icon has become my go to shirt, whether on tour, riding trails, or in a coffee shop. I love the bike-friendly vents and the snap buttons. Note that fit is on the slim side. The latest Icon (V2) has number of new updates including increased opening of cuffs, improved coverage of patches, better articulation of shoulder vents, added reflectivity, and new colors. -Cass

Available at Kitsbow

Acre Hauser 14, $280

If you are going to carry a backpack, make it a comfortable one. Since day one with this pack I thought it was the most comfortable I’ve tried. Being waterproof, it also makes a good camera gear case. This one’s been to Kyrgyzstan, Cuba, the GMGG, Trans-WNC, tons of other trips, and it’s still going strong. -Logan

Available at Mission Workshop

Roadrunner Jumbo Jammer, $230

I’m all for ultralight rollbags. But when it comes to extended adventures – especially those of a dirt road variety – I generally prefer bags that are more practical. The Jumbo Jammer is admittedly on the heavier side compared to some. But the counterpoint to this is its durability, its ease of access (from the top, which I prefer), 100% waterproofing, a generous capacity, and a novel strapping/lashing system that ensures ensure it won’t budge an inch on your handlebars. LA made with lots of fun colour options too! -Cass

Available at Roadrunner Bags

Rockgeist 52Hz Frame Pack, $230

Formerly made by Porcelain Rocket, the roll-top 52hz frame bag waterproof and extremely well made—and now made by Rockgeist in Asheville, NC. Both Cass and I put thousands of miles on the 52hz with zero issues. Read the review. -Logan

Available at Rockgeist

BXB Goldback Saddlebag, $240

The BXB Goldback is a modern take on the classic saddlebag. With a simple, well-conceived design, and sturdy waxed canvas construction, it’s built for the long haul. We tested the Goldback in Ethiopia and used it on a couple trips around Pisgah National Forest, and it’s still going strong. These things are handmade in the US and definitely built to last. -Logan

Available at Bags By Bird

PAUL Klamper, $245

BB7s aren’t the only reliable mechanical disc brake on the market. After using the Paul Klamper on trips through Uganda, Rwanda, back in the states, and recently, the Republic of Georgia, we are pretty confident in their longevity. Adjustments on the Klamper are super simple too. Plus, they’re made in the USA. -Logan

Available at Paul Components

Shimano XM9 Boots, $250

For the most part, I ride flat pedals when bikepacking. But if I’m clipping in, these are my boots of choice, as were the generation that preceded them. Aside from local autumnal and winter rides, mine have seen action on the Colorado Trail, where I really appreciated their extra ankle support and grippy soles during extended hike a bikes. Durability has been really good too. Read the review. -Cass

Available at AMZN Backcountry

SON Dynamo Hubs, $330+

Dynamo lighting is an invaluable upgrade for any bike, and there are no better hubs to power your lights than the SONdelux and SON28 from Schmidt Maschinenbau in Germany. They’re precision-made to withstand untold miles riding and are fully serviceable should anything need adjusting down the road. -Lucas

Available at Angry Catfish

WHITE INDUSTRIES M30 CRANKS, $345

We’ve put several years of use and abuse on the White Industries M30 crankset now, and it’s definitely become one of my favorite bike possessions. Not only are these cranks beautifully machined, the M30s are stiff, strong, easy to install, and are available in a nice array of options. They’ve become a prized component and seem like they’ll last a lifetime.

Available at White Industries

Sinewave Beacon, $350

Until I tried the Beacon, I didn’t quite see the need for a dynamo light when bike touring. After all, I aim not to ride at after dusk and always carry a headtorch. After 9 weeks in Peru and Ecuador – as well as commuting duties since I’ve been home – I’m now a certified dynamo light convert. Aside from illuminating my way when expected camp spots prove elusive, the Beacon serves as an extremely efficient USB charger. The 750 lumen light even runs off a USB cache battery (charged during the day) for slow and techy nightime singletrack, or slow and protracted ascents. It’s made in the USA and the build quality is impressive; it’s survived mud, muck, grime, snow, rain, and more. -Cass

Available at SinewaveCycles

Big Agnes Fly Creek UL, $370+

We’ve found the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL series to have the perfect blend of space and weight. We’ve used the UL1 and UL3 models and they’ve held up through big trips in Africa, through Spain and Morocco, and many more. The Bikepack series is equally as good and with shorter pole segments, they’re even better for packing. And the Solution Dyed options are even better. -Logan

Available at Campfire (UL1) REI (UL2) AMZN

Katabatic Alsek 22, $355

The Alsek 22 was my first quilt, and I was extremely impressed with it from the moment I first used tucked myself in with it. I appreciate the ability to adjust the temperature with a quilt. I also move around a lot and it stays in place, which I really like. In cold weather, you just secure the neck snaps and pull the bag around you for maximum warmth. I’ve since tried several others and the Alsec remains my favorite. It’s expensive, but it’s made in Colorado and has held up extremely well over six years of regular use. Read the review here. –Logan

Available at Katabatic

Fox Transfer Dropper, $359

At this point, there aren’t too many dropper posts I’d trust for a long trip. I’ve killed droppers from five or six other brands at this point. However, we’ve had really good luck with latest Fox Transfer. We brought two along on the Baja Divide, and then to Oaxaca, and even put a ton of miles on them before and after that. They’re both still going strong with no service. It also works great and has a low stack height. Read the review here. –Logan

Available at Backcountry

Hyperlite Ultamid Tent, $825

I know, it might seem hard to justify the price of this single skin tarp – which doesn’t even include a pole or tent stakes! But the truth is, while I have other good tents in my gear collection, this is the one I reach for when high mountain riding… no matter the kind of trip I have planned, the season I’m riding, whether it’s a solo ride or with a friend. Yes, it takes the right technique to pitch well, but once honed it feels as impregnable as a castle, and a joy to admire in any mountainscape! The Ultamid 2 has now joined me on extended trips around Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Mexico, and the Republic of Georgia. Update 2021 – after a number of years, the zipper wore out and was replaced by Hyperlite’s repair service. Read the review. -Cass

Available at Hyperlite Mountain Gear

Cane Creek eeWings, $1,099

A $1,100 titanium crankset might seem a little crazy, but after years of use, the Cane Creek eeWings have proven to be some of the most durable and best performing cranks Logan and I have ever used. Weighing in at just 400g (excluding a chain ring), the eeWings are lighter and stiffer than carbon options, come with a 10 year warranty, and are available in both mountain bike and all-road standards. -Miles

$1099 at Jenson Worldwide