The Awful Truth
 Legs of steel. Mind of mud. Incredible but true. Some people actually travel with this much stuff. This is absolutely too much stuff! A number of times, at the summit of a steep climb I've found a bike loaded like these two are. The one on the left was at the top of the Oberalp Pass. The one below was at the top of the climb to the fortress city of Les Baux. I look around for the rider, expecting to see someone with legs like tree trunks. I never see them. Maybe they're recuperating in the shade. Maybe they're in an ambulance. Where ever they are I have to admire them for their ability to get all that stuff up the hill but I wonder if they every start to mentally discard stuff halfway up. Engender the ability in yourself to throw things away. Just because you brought it doesn't  mean you have to keep carrying it if you're not using it. There are lots of things you only need one of. Do a wash every day and save space and weight and always start the day in clean clothes. Learn to use a wastebasket. Finish your book and then throw it away and buy another one. No point in carrying maps or portions of maps where you're not going. No point in carrying half empty bottles of lotion or shampoo. Containers can weigh as much as their contents and take up the same amount of space whether they're empty or full. I met a couple of Brits once who were carrying a box of breakfast cereal and half full container of milk in their front paniers. Look out for the bumps! I saw a couple in a Swiss camp once actually unfold a small table and chairs from their bikes and open a bottle of champagne after their tent was up. Classy but cumbersome. Less is more.
If you discover you're missing something and you absolutely have to have it - there are stores.  
On the left, some loaded bikes along the Rhine. Notice all the weight is on the rear. This can make for unexpected wheelies. Also notice the backpacks on the bench, more stuff than anyone really needs. On the right, another cycle tourist's idea of bringing along absolutely everything you might possibly need, and more. And this for a tour in the USA! Below, my Bike Friday Airglide, at a pause along the Rhine, rolling well and lightly. Despite the funny look with the little, more efficient wheels, a terrific touring machine. Travel light, travel far. Click the pic to learn more.
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