Factors in hotter climates:
Some anti malarials can cause sun-sensitivity which is a factor in Viet-Cambodia, not the Nile.
Water provided at 20km intervals, this can be increased depending on local conditions, vehicles carry plenty of supplies to keep your bottles/camelbaks full
Shower water cups will be provided so riders can cool down
Shade at lunch stops
Avoid cycling in heat of the day -- we do
High factor sun cream
Scarf protection for back of the neck in particular
CYCLE THE NILE 21 - 25 JANUARY 2010
SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR PACKING LIST:
Clothing
T-shirts - one per cycle day ( 3 will be supplied)
Padded cycling shorts - 2 pairs if you are concerned!! (wearing 2 pairs together will help against saddle soreness). Baggy overshorts for women essential to respect the local modest dress code; recommended for men.
Cycling shoes - or suitable footwear e.g. trainers
Socks - one pair per day plus spares and extra for evenings
Spare trainers for general walking
Scarf to cover back of neck (to avoid sun burn)
Cap / wide brimmed sun hat to cover head when not wearing helmet
Sunglasses
Light casual wear for most of week i.e. sweatshirt, tracksuit, jeans
Something slightly smarter for the celebration meal
Light waterproof jacket
Long sleeved cycle top / leggings & fleece for cool mornings and evenings
Equipment
Cycling gloves - one pair
Cycle helmet -- essential -- you cannot ride without one
1 water bottle for bike (a carrier is provided on each bike) and/or camelbak.(small rucksack with water bag and pipe to drink as you ride -- recommended for ease and drinking easily while cycling -- important to take on plenty of fluids) The water bottle should have a lid to cover the mouth piece.
Bum bag for carrying small items while cycling e.g. camera, sun cream, tissues etc.
Small 'day' bag/rucksack which can be used for any extra items during the day and will be transported on support vehicle
Saddle or gel seat cover (optional but advisable for comfort) - don't bring the pole or fittings, just the saddle
Plastic toe clips can be useful and will be attached by mechanics, as will saddle etc
Handlebar extensions -- gives hands different position to avoid stiffness -- coloured is good to help find your bike at breaks!
Pedals / SPDs can be fitted by mechanics if you bring your own
1 towel
Ear plugs (sharing with noisy room mates can prevent sleep!)
Carrier bags/bin bags - useful for dirty washing or wet clothing
Camera and film , batteries, memory cards
Copy of passport / insurance policy
Personal and Medical Supplies
Salt replacement is very important - participants need to take rehydration sachets (eg dioralyte or similar own brand from any chemist), these would be mixed in a small amount of water - not added to the main water bottle. These are different to isotonic powders and are more important. Recommend that each cyclist brings a pack of 10 sachets. 2 per day with spares.
Hygiene: wash bag, toothbrush, toothpaste, travel towel, flannel, soap (anti bacterial), deodorant, wet wipes, tissues, shampoo, sanitary products, contact lens solution, razor & cream, shower gel, hairbrush/comb, ladies are advised to take tampons regardless of timing
Sun cream (minimum factor 15) SP20 is a long lasting brand for all day cycling, aftersun and lip salve
Insect repellent
Sufficient quantity of any personal regular medication
Small personal medical kit - including antiseptic ointment, plasters, knee support, bandage, pain killers, sting relief, diareze, dioralyte, immodium and bonjela .
Ciproxin, this is a prescription drug for severe diarrhoea and an essential part of your medical kit. The doctor on the tour will advise you when / how to take it if required.
Sudacrem, Vaseline, Assos chamois cream or similar (apply each day to "sensitive areas" to help prevent saddle soreness)
Anti bacterial handwash / wet wipes for washing hands prior to eating - essential
Isotonic powders - train with these before departure
Toilet paper (for on ride, not boat!!)
Extra energy snacks / bars (banana, oranges, nuts and date rolls are provided each day)
Please pack as lightly as possible in a soft, robust main bag. This list is not exhaustive and is a suggestion of what would be useful.
IT IS ADVISABLE TO PUT HELMET, SADDLE, GLOVES AND ANYTHING ELSE YOU DEEM VITAL IN TO YOUR RUCKSACK TO TAKE ON AS HAND LUGGAGE TO MAKE ABSOLUTELY SURE THEY GET THERE IN CASE OF BAGGAGE MISHAPS. YOU CAN CYCLE WITHOUT EXTRA PANTS, BUT NOT WITHOUT A HELMET!!