Steve Cook

I've been planning a bikepacking trip for several months. All my bags are from Apidura, and I've been very happy with everything. My first trip was with a small group of six.

It started out in the 40's when we left, and got up to around 60 when we arrived at our campsite. It was 30 miles to the site. Unfortunately, a lady in our group crashed less than 1/4 mile from our destination and broke her arm and had to get her daughter to come pick her up. She was taken into surgery the next morning to repair a badly broken elbow. Just goes to show that cycling can be dangerous and you can't exercise enough caution, especially when in uncertain conditions.

I made several decisions as to what I could and couldn't bring with me based on space to accommodate what I needed. I couldn't quite fit as much into my bags as I can my 60-liter backpack, so I had to nix a few items. I made the mistake of leaving the sleeping pad behind, which was a horrible mistake. I basically didn't get any sleep at all. So since then, I've upgraded my isobutane stove and tent to smaller versions, so I'll have room for the pad next time.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and the beginning of a new chapter of adventures. I'll be doing it again soon.