What to take on a long ride?

[Owlie]

Surgtech, I wouldn't put Gatorade in a bladder. That's really hard to clean.

Thank you so much for this thread, I've been wondering also! I usually ride a trail that goes right through my town, so there are gas stations and restaurants all along that I could stop at, but I hate to eat gas station/fast food, especially when I'm exercising.

I'm wondering where you all buy these items you're talking about. I've seen gels and things at the LBSs and stuff, but I haven't come across a lot of the brands you all mention, especially for the electrolyte tablets and things, which I rarely seem to find around here. Do you order online, or buy locally?

Depends where you live and how big your LBS is. I don't like electrolyte drinks unless it's really hot, so I really don't pay attention. I mostly use diluted Gatorade (I'm a poor student)
Clif bars come from the grocery store, and I get shot blocks from the LBS.

[Norse]

Real foods that contain good stuff AND that my body will tolerate: 1/2 of a crunchy, natural peanut butter sandwich (I add sliced banana if I have); dried figs and apricots; assortment of nuts, always including almonds. Otherwise, I use all the stuff mentioned by others - GU, other gels, Cliff, Lara and other such bars, simple fruit and nut bars (co-ops carry), shot blocks (if it's hot) ... just depends on the length and the weather. Sat I am planning about a 45 mile ride, mostly trail, but the weather is supposed to be hot and humid. So, no pb sandwich (gets too runny in the heat), instead a fruit and nut protein bar a packet of gel, couple of shot blocks and my normal bottle of water (I'll be able to refill) and bottle of partially diluted gatorade - full strength is too sweet for me. If all goes accordingly, I likely won't eat one of either the gel or shot blocks.

Forgot to mention - on long, hot days, nothing is better than Pearson's Salted Nut Rolls!

[PeggyB]

Insurance card and driver's license (or copies). Should always carry:

Flat kit (2 tubes, tire levers, pump or CO2)
Food (nothing new on a long ride; I like Mojo bars, PB and J and bananas)
Gatorade (2 bottles worth) and gatorade powder in your favorite flavor as you will need more)
Bike shorts with gel chamois (but again, don't wear a new pair; what if they rub?)