what to pack for ms150?

[archibella]

Hi everybody-

Well... assuming that Rita doesn't kill the fun next weekend, I'm doing my first bike to the beach Oct. 1st and 2nd. I've read the ride website's recommendations for what to bring (like toiletries, sleeping bag, clothes, etc), but I was wondering if you guys have any unusual favorite items, or things-not-to-bring that you've discovered through experience and are willing to pass along?

Thanks!

Also-- hailing from San Antonio, our thoughts are with everyone in Rita's path. Be safe--

[Technotart]

Small tube or stick of sunscreen so you can reapply, a wet thin washrag in a small ziplock baggy to wipe the salt and sweat off with - you can rinse it at the rest stops with cold water and put it on your neck in between stops since it sure looks like it will be hot!

CHAMOIS BUTTER!!!!!!!!! LOTS OF IT!!!!!!!

DEFINATELY a camelback! and an extra pair of gloves so your sweaty ones can dry while you wear the other ones.

I also wish I had taken a small camera along.

What I didnt need: the rain gear. You're gonna get wet with or without it if it rains so you might as well leave it behind

[archibella]

Thanks Technotart I really appreciate the advice!

I've been debating on the method of water packing... Whether to bring 2 bottles, or the camelbak. The camelbak has storage and more water capacity, but it will also be an extra load in the heat. Since there are rest stops ever 10-12 miles, I know I can refill bottles... but then I can't carry as many goodies, lol.

If you're riding too, good luck!! I'll be praying for a "cold front"

[profàvélo]

I agree, the Camelback sounds hot compared to water bottles. Just did the MS 150 in SC, and I don't think there was ever more than 10 miles between stops. The SAG is incredible, both the food/supplies and the people working the stops.

I second the camera idea. Suggestion: disposable, under-water camera, so you can stick it in your pocket and not worry about the sweat getting inside it (which happened to me on a different ride). They are usually small and light, too.

Pack as lightly as possible, and in a wheeled bag, because you may have to lug your stuff further than you'd like.

We had to bring our own energy bars because we had no bar sponsor. (We did, however, have a beer sponsor--at the overnight site, not on the route!--which I would take any day over an energy-bar sponsor. )

Have a great time!