Transalp MTB packing list: gear for your Alpine crossing by mountain bike
The right packing list is key to a successful Transalp by mountain bike. Too much weight drains your energy; too little gear can quickly become a problem.
Important: You don’t have to carry everything yourself. Tools and spare parts in particular can be shared within the group—the key is that everything is available in an emergency.
Here you’ll find a practical packing list for your Alpine crossing—based on experience from countless Transalp tours.
Bike setup and recommendations
- Full-suspension bike with 130–160 mm travel (ideal for alpine terrain)
- Platform pedals recommended – clipless pedals only for experienced riders
- Hydraulic dropper seatpost (dropper post) for more confidence on descents
- Suitable shoes with good grip (also suitable for walking)
Free Transalp packing list download
Download the complete packing list as a PDF here and get perfectly prepared:
👉 Download the Transalp packing list
What belongs in your bike backpack
In the video, we show you what really belongs in your pack for a Transalp—practical and straight from our tours.
Tip: Pack your backpack as minimal as possible—but as complete as necessary.
Bike and mechanics
- Mountain bike in perfect condition
- Brakes checked
- 2 pairs of brake pads
- Proper tires with sufficient tread: e.g., Maxxis Minion DHF or Schwalbe Magic Mary / Albert series
- At least 1 spare tube + tubeless repair kit
- Tire levers
- Patch kit as backup
- Pump
- Shock pump
- Multi-tool (including all necessary Allen and Torx keys for your bike!)
- Important: Check that special tools like Torx T10 are included as well
- Leatherman with pliers and knife
- Quick link (matching your chain: 11-speed, 12-speed, etc.)
- Derailleur hanger (must fit your frame!)
- Spare shift cable for mechanical shifting
- Spare battery for electronic shifting
- Zip ties and tape (for quick repairs on the go)
Clothing
- Bike shorts
- Performance shirts
- Rain jacket (can also be used as wind protection)
- short rain pants (handy against wetness from below)
- Long-sleeve jersey (for warmth and protection)
- lightweight Primaloft or insulated jacket (for breaks, descents, and cold conditions)
- Gloves
- Socks and underwear
- Change of clothes for the evening
- Toothbrush and toiletries
Tip: Two-kit system: one for riding, one for the evening. That way you’ll always have dry clothes at night.
Tip: Even in summer, it can get cold quickly in the Alps—especially on passes or during long descents.
Backpack and nutrition
- Backpack (approx. 18–30 liters) including rain cover
- Hydration system or bottles
- Energy bars and snacks
- Sunscreen
Safety and emergency
- Helmet
- Glasses
- Knee pads
- First-aid kit (see details below)
- Bivy bag
- Phone
- Emergency numbers
- Map and emergency apps (e.g., Outdooractive, SOS Eu Alp, What3Words, …)
- Headlamp
Show first-aid kit contents
- Waterproof first-aid pack
- Disposable gloves
- Sterile wound dressing
- Bandage dressing
- Steri-Strips or Opsite / film dressing
- Self-adhesive fixation bandage or gauze bandage
- Plasters
- Blister plasters
- Israeli bandage
- Aluminum emergency blanket
- Disinfectant
- Tape
Navigation and planning
- GPS or smartphone with offline maps
- Loaded tracks
- Power bank
- Charging cable
- Optional: paper map as a backup
E-bike specific
- Charger
- Spare battery
- Planning charging points
- Knowing your range
Always carry with you
- Cash
- ID
Optional depending on the tour
- Hut sleeping bag liner
Packing list tips
Pack as light as possible, but as complete as necessary. Every extra gram goes with you over every meter of elevation gain.
Test your gear before the tour and ride your setup at least once under real conditions.
Why a guided Transalp helps
If you’re unsure what you really need, a guided Transalp gives you the benefit of experience and planning. And of course, luggage transfer. ;-)