Be Ready for a Great Week on the Road

One of the most common questions we receive from first-time GOBA riders is, “What should I pack?”

The good news is that GOBA is a fully supported bicycle tour. Your luggage is transported between overnight communities, so you only need to carry what you’ll use during the day on your bike. A little planning before you arrive will help make your week more comfortable and enjoyable.

Remember, Ohio weather can vary throughout the week. Be prepared for cool mornings, warm afternoons, sun, wind, and the occasional rain shower.

Riding Gear

These are the essentials you’ll want with you each day on the bike:

• Bicycle in good working condition
• Helmet (required)
• Cycling shorts and jerseys
• Cycling gloves
• Cycling shoes or comfortable athletic shoes
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Water bottles or hydration pack
• Small saddle bag
• Spare tube(s)
• Tire levers
• Mini pump or CO₂ inflator
• Multi-tool
• Phone and charger or battery pack
• Identification and insurance card
• Cash and credit card

Clothing for Camp

Plan for a week’s worth of riding and relaxing.

Suggested items include:

• 3–5 cycling outfits (laundry opportunities may be available)
• Comfortable camp clothes
• Lightweight jacket or sweatshirt
• Rain jacket
• Sleepwear
• Underwear and socks
• Sandals or comfortable walking shoes
• Hat or visor
• Swimsuit (if desired)

Camping Equipment

If you’re camping during GOBA, you’ll want:

• Tent
• Ground tarp or footprint
• Sleeping bag or bedding
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Pillow
• Camp chair
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Tent stakes and mallet

Please label all camping gear with your name.

Indoor Sleeping Participants

Riders using indoor sleeping locations should bring:

• Sleeping bag or bedding
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Pillow
• Earplugs (recommended)
• Towel and toiletries

Indoor sleeping locations are available in each overnight community, but space is shared with other riders.

Personal Items

Don’t forget:

• Medications
• Personal toiletries
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Soap and shampoo
• Deodorant
• Towel and washcloth
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Laundry detergent pods or travel detergent
• Reusable water bottle

Optional Comfort Items

Many experienced GOBA riders also bring:

• Portable battery pack
• Small extension cord or power strip
• Clothesline and clips
• Recovery sandals
• Chamois cream
• Electrolyte tablets or drink mix
• Small cooler for camp
• Notebook or journal
• Camera

E-Bike Riders

If you’re riding an e-bike, please remember:

• Battery charger
• Any charging adapters you require
• Spare key (if applicable)
• Battery lock key
• Extension cord (recommended)

Charging opportunities will be available in camp, but riders should bring the equipment needed for their specific bicycle.

A Few Final Tips

• Pack lighter than you think you need.
• Use a durable duffel bag or suitcase that is easy for volunteers to handle.
• Label everything with your name and phone number.
• Check the weather forecast before you leave.
• Test ride your bicycle before GOBA and make any needed repairs.

Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure, your GOBA spirit, and be ready to make memories across Ohio’s Route 250 corridor.

We can’t wait to see you in Norwalk for GOBA 37!