What do you carry and how do you carry it?

[CorsairMac]

on long rides I wear a Camelbak and I carry everything in it. I don't really care what people think - I live alone and have no one to sag for me so if I don't carry it and need it - I'm out of luck. Also, with our heat here in NM, my 100 oz camelback can be pretty light by the time I get home. I also carry my extra water bottles (full) there in case I "can't" get to a convenience store for some reason during the ride. everything=spare tube, spare co2 cartridges, cell phone, food, extra electrolyte packs, tea bags, tire levers, leatherman, garage door opener, 2 full extra water bottles, empty baggies (for trash), bandaids.

[Aint Doody]

Don't overlook what maillotpois said about that insurance card--a photocopy works well. I also carry a photocopy of my drivers license, too.

I have removed my handlebar bag, and my bicycle handles much, much better. I think sometimes I was carrying way more than I needed.

[Trekhawk]

I have a large seatbag that I carry my spare tube or two ( depending on ride length) tools, co2 x 2 ,co2 pump, small patch kit, small first aid kit, money and keys.

I have a bento box which I use for food and phone (and maps if I need them ).

I wear my ID around my neck and anything else goes in my jersey pockets.

I also have a pump on my frame.

My husband often laughs at me for the amount of gear I take but it makes me feel confident that I can cope with most situations.

I was glad for my small first aid package when I was stung by a bee on my first organized ride - wiped down the sting with stingoes and away went the pain and so did I to finish the ride happy.