Gear is invaluable to a rider. In brief, here’s a list of a few items that I try not to leave behind when I go on a ride.  Almost all can fit in your jacket pockets, and all make life more pleasant. So in no order, I give you my list of useful stuff:

• Chapstick
• Sunscreen
• Small toolkit
• Rain suit
• Map
• Medical info card*
• Bungy cord
• Baby wipes
• Earplugs
• An extra layer, preferably a lightweight fleece
• Pen
• Head/neck/face scarf or bandana
• And the basics… cash, credit card, license, registration, and cell phone with plenty of charge

*I plan a separate post on this