What to Pack for a Family Bike Ride

Family bike rides are a great way to get outside, explore, and spend time together, but they can quickly turn chaotic without some planning. Before you hop on your bikes, ensure you’ve packed the essentials, so you're ready for anything the day might throw at you. First and foremost—snacks. And not just a handful—bring more than you think you'll need. Kids seem to get hungry as soon as the wheels start turning, and nothing derails a fun ride faster than a hangry kid. Think easy-to-eat options like granola bars, sliced fruit, crackers, or nuts. And if you want to keep everyone happy, throw in a treat as a reward for when you reach your destination.

Alongside snacks, plenty of water is a must. Biking is thirsty work, especially for little ones, and it’s easy to forget how much you’ll need until you’re halfway through the ride. Ensure each rider has their own water bottle and that they’re easy to sip from while riding or during quick stops. It’s a simple way to keep energy levels up and avoid mid-ride meltdowns.

Next, pack a small first-aid kit. Kids are naturally curious, and a scraped knee or a bump is almost guaranteed when biking. You don’t need anything too extensive—just band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any medication you might need. A fun touch? Bring character-themed band-aids or stickers to help turn that minor scrape into a quick and cheerful fix.

You’ll also want to include wet wipes or tissues. Trust me, they’ll come in handy for sticky fingers after snacks, wiping off dirt from small hands, or dealing with a runny nose. They take up hardly any space and can be a total lifesaver when things get messy (which they often do on family adventures!).

Even if the forecast looks sunny, packing layers is always smart. Weather can be unpredictable, especially if your ride spans over an hour or covers different areas. A light jacket or sweater for each family member ensures no one ends up chilly if the temperature drops or you decide to ride later in the evening. And on warmer days, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. Sunglasses help protect eyes from the bright sun, and sunscreen prevents any uncomfortable burns, especially for those sensitive little faces. Apply before you leave, and reapply during longer breaks—it’s one of those things you’ll be thankful you didn’t forget.

If your ride involves a stop at a park, café, or shop, don’t forget to bring a bike lock. There’s nothing worse than finally sitting down for a snack, only to constantly worry about your bikes' safety. A simple lock gives you peace of mind and lets everyone relax for a bit.

Speaking of breaks, bringing a small toy or book to keep the kids entertained when you stop to rest is a great idea. Breaks are inevitable, especially with younger riders, and having something to keep their attention can turn a quick pause into a fun part of the day. One fun trick is to bring along a short storybook and read a page at each stop. The anticipation of finding out what happens next will help keep them excited to get back on their bikes and pedal to the next “chapter.”

Even though punctures and bike issues are rare, you’ll want to pack a small bike repair kit just in case. A multi-tool, patch kit, and pump can handle most minor issues you might encounter. It’s better to be prepared than stuck on the side of the road wishing you’d brought something to fix that wobbly tyre or loose bolt. If you’re not confident with repairs, no worries—many local bike shops offer basic repair classes that are quick to learn and could save the day.

Finally—and most importantly—bring a lot of patience and flexibility. No matter how prepared you are, family bike rides rarely go exactly as planned. Maybe the kids will want to stop to look at every flower or bug they see, or perhaps a meltdown over a snack happens right when you think you’ve found your groove. The key to a successful ride is to roll with whatever comes your way. The goal isn’t to cover a certain distance or stick to a strict schedule—it’s to enjoy the time together, explore at your own pace, and make memories.

So, if the ride ends up being shorter than expected or you have to take more breaks than you thought, that’s okay. The joy of a family bike ride is in the journey, not the destination. Pack smart, stay flexible, and be ready for anything the road throws your way.

 Happy cycling Zug!