I can't eat solid food during rides on hot days without feeling sick. I drink Gatorade (alternating with bottles of plain water because I can only take so much of it), and I like Gu and Gu Roctane gels and Gu Chomps. Also Jelly Belly Sports Beans are great. On really hot days, I don't love the taste of PowerBar gels but they have tons of sodium. I think the vanilla flavor is the best choice.

When it's not too hot, I'm able to eat some food. Before afternoon rides I often eat Pop-Tarts for lunch because they digest fast and don't feel heavy once I start riding, and lately I've been trying them for snacks during rides. They're okay but probably best for shorter rides. I've also bought lots of Craisins lately (they were on sale, buy 2 get 3 free) so will be trying them for ride snacks. I think I have some raisins in the pantry so maybe I'll mix them together.

For chamois cream -- I like Hoo Ha Ride Glide. It works well and is available in small packets for mid-ride touch-ups.

As you're learning, an important aspect of preparing for long "event" rides is to experiment with different things during training rides -- food before and during the ride, clothing and equipment -- so you have your best chance of enjoying the big event instead of dealing with unexpected discomfort from trying something for the first time. Earlier today I did a 48-mile charity ride which is one of my favorite rides of the year, and the folks at Power Bar were nice enough to contribute free products for the rest stops and post-ride picnic. They have a new product call "Performance Energy Blends" which is made with fruit puree. I took a free sample and will try it during a shorter ride, to minimize the impact if it doesn't agree with my stomach. I did have a real banana during the rest stop today and was fine with it, although during some summer rides I can't even look at a banana or other solid food.