What will you NOT LEAVE HOME WITHOUT?

[Denise223]

posted twice

[mtkitchn]

I always have some money on me.....just in case!
I also keep lip balm with SPF and eye drops (I wear contacts) with me.
Gu gel, two full water bottles, cell phone, and
CAMERA!

[farrellcollie]

I carry extra tube, pump, cell phone, small tool kit, $20, and I have put all my contact information in saddlebag and in helmet placed under a few strips of see through packing tape.

I got my lbs to show me how to fix a flat and at least one bike shop in stl has "women only" classes (one of the bike managers at that shop posts on here too) - the reason I am saying this is because it might relieve your anxiety to take a short class like this or have lbs show you and then practice at home - well before a ride in case it doesn't work (but it will). (the pracitce at home with a perfectly not flat tire was odd for me - but it worked - I took off tire, dflated tube, took it off and then put it back together again a few times in the comfort and safely of my own home - the only problem came from dogs who thought I needed their help)

[run it, ride it]

This is one of the only times it's acceptable to answer with:

Certainly not underwear!

[Dr. Liz]

Helmet, sunglasses and gloves are a no-brainer. The bag on the back carries a spare tube, the tire changing tool, the cylinder of CO2 (whatever it is) to inflate the tire, $20 cash, my debit card (in case I'm really a mess, and need to call a cab), and my cell phone. I also have all the water I can carry (I'd rather have a little more weight than run out of water), and some fig newtons (I'm converted!).

BTW, while I know HOW to change my tire, since I always ride with DH, I don't ever actually do it. Why should I change my tire, when I've got a perfectly good spouse to do it for me?

Oh yeah, and I carry single-package Wet Ones (or whatever the 'moist towelette' is called). Good for cleaning the hands after changing the tire (well, okay, for DH to clean HIS hands when he changes the tire! ), or for other emergencies. For long rides, I also carry some Tylenol, some more serious drugs for DH, and any, erm, girly things I might need.

It sounds like a lot, but it all manages to get packed into a pretty small space.

[margo49]

All what you-all already said plus:
a book for if I get stuck somewhere
swiss army knife (40 years old belonged to my dead Dad)
coin money for hospital vending machines
rosary (not a RC myself but like the beads/prayers and find it calming and focussing.Haven't "needed " it yet but the thing is in an emergency you have only your rote memory and "automatics" to rely on. It is no time to start scrabbling around in your concussed or shocked brain for something meaningful ,politically correct, and theologically sound )