Panniers vs Trailers for Bicycle Touring - Are bicycle trailers or panniers better?

A look at panniers vs trailers for bicycle touring. Having used a bicycle trailer when cycling from Alaska to Argentina for 18,000 kms, and panniers for cycling from England to South Africa, I've had a great deal of experience of both.
Here's a look at then pros and cons of bicycle trailers and panniers, and my own thoughts on which ones are better depending on the type of bike tour.
I'd love to hear from you as well - Which do you prefer to use and why? Read more - www.davestravelpages.com/shoul...
Check out my guide to choosing the best panniers for bike touring here - www.davestravelpages.com/best...
Take a look at trailers and panniers here:
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[@markbrister1104]

Also trailer takes some weight off the bike and spread it onto the trailer wheel therefore slightly reduced risk of punctures/ stress on the bike.

[@galehess6676]

Ease. Trailers offer ease of use. A single opening, not trying to lug 4 bags around or attaching/detaching 4x... drag one bag into tent, easier to wipe 1 bottom off when that rain storm gets you... It is actually lighter... too... add up brackets, panniers and the heavier bike needed to sustain those items... I have a sub 15 road bike I just road over 4 states to pick up a Volt, a 25-30# touring bike plus panniers and racks... 15 +13 is 28... Same and much less wind resistance, especially high center of gravity gusting on panniers which are high. People compalin about weight, but the weight is the same unless you ??why?? decide to pull a trailer with a touring bike. A trailer set up offers easier climbing too, the weight is not too high and rocking the bike if you are climbing 10% for an hour and a half with crosswinds from Jackson, WY to Driggs, ID. On arrival, I just drop the trailer and ride down hill on the dead end to Yellowstone Falls early in the morning, or run to a store after setting up camp, with no panniers to mess with, just 15#'s of racing bike and monster legs from pulling a trailer for weeks... feels like flying. As they say below, never a broken spoke to deal with, as the weight is on the trailer's sturdy wheel. No need to buy an extra bike, you can use a light bike at home and on the road. Compact rings, maybe mountain gearing if you like (I did). A trailer is hands down the better option, except for people used to panniers who are not up for change and who like to squirrel stuff around and spend extra time packing. A bag is open, visible and still allows for excellent organizing. It's simple to clean out too.

[@The-GreenHornet]

I've used both a trailer as well as panniers. However, I have a Catrike Expedition recumbent trike. The thing about panniers, is I can only hang just two on my rear rack, because a recumbent trike can't have front racks for front panniers. So except for a little extra smaller bag that can be bungie strapped on top of my rear rack. My rear panniers is all I can haul; with the exception of banana bags for trikes that hang on the side of the seat. Trailers do offer some benefits, but there are also some disadvantages. Extra tubes and maybe a extra tire as well. The possibility of getting trailer flats. The extra piece of hauling that trailer behind you; extra length for maneuverability, and if you need to go on a airplane or perhaps be loaded up in the back of a pickup truck due to a bad stretch of road. That trailer can become a extra pain. As you have stated, it seems to work well for you. And I agree that its much easier to access your camping gear and stuff than digging through panniers. I'd say, both have their advantages as well as disadvantages. I'd rather go with panniers, and just make sure I'm only bringing exactly what I truly need and not the mistake of taking too much stuff. Which we all have been guilty of. That's the fine science of touring.

[@billweberx]

I couldn't agree more. You don't need to pull more weight with a trailer. My trailer is 7 lbs and the bag is 2 lbs. My bike is a 29 lb touring recumbent (Cruzbike S40). I'm pretty sure most touring bikes with panniers weigh as much or more than that. The ONLY way the trailer can be harder to pull up a hill is if it weighs more (elementary physics). The aerodynamics of my recumbent and trailer is amazing. Most of the time, I can't tell the trailer is attached. I can't imagine chugging along with all those bags on my bike, especially into a headwind. No broken spokes, very few rear flats. Finally, my trailer breaks down and can be stored in a light weight bag that is provided with the trailer for travelling on airlines, buses or trains. It's the Free Parable T2. If you like panniers because they provide compartmentalization into 4 bags, put your stuff in 4 stuff sacks in the trailer bag. When you want to get around town, you can detach the trailer (really fast) and you have a regular bike, no racks, etc. I think that maybe people feel they look abnormal with a trailer while all the other folks are touring with panniers. In the same way, people choose regular diamond frame bikes over recumbents, which are truly superior technologically, but look weird. At 65, I don't mind looking weird anymore. I'll agree with one point, however, it would be harder to throw the trailer and bag over a fence than to throw 4 separate bags. But, really, how often does that happen?

[@felixcat9318]

I didn't want to lose the multimodal benefits of a small folding bicycle and the Circe Atlas Bicycle Cargo Trailer exceeds my expectations as it too folds down and packs away small. The Circe Atlas trailer folds down into its own small bag, its light in weight and assembles in a few minutes without tools! The KZbin video of this trailer being assembled from its bag captivated me and I knew that I had found the perfect bicycle cargo trailer. Everyone has their own specific requirements and this trailer is absolutely perfect for mine (the bicycle and trailer fold down and both fit aboard my packraft!).

[@77miksu]

I used to before the panniers, but now I use bob trailer. As you said, each has its benefits. My personal favorite is the trailer. The hills are sometimes tough, good that we do not have big hills here in Finland :)

[@nikoulph]

I’ve cross the alps in Switzerland several times, trailer, and bags... it feels heavy either way, it gets a few weeks to get used to steep uphills. Because I use a trailer I never had a broken spoke, which is a pain in the ass to repair on the road. The more you load your bicycle the higher chances you take to have broken spokes and eventually frame failure. Even some steel frames are so thin to keep the weight down that over loading the bicycle is dangerous. By the way, I use both panniers and trailer (radical design cyclone)

[@DaveBriggs]

I'm with you on the broken spokes. If they happen, it's always on the rear wheel and it's always a pain!

[@billweberx]

Not to mention more pinch flats...

[@ajgoetsch]

Very useful perspectives! Thanks.

[@oneshiftmexico2188]

Good review! I prefer BOB trailer, because I rather pull the weight then carry it, especially going down technical single track, easy to unhook, stash and leave behind, I like having the load closer to the ground and another reason is using a regular performance high end mountain bike, there were many times we unhooked the trailer and explored trails. Also, if need, you can keep loading more stuff on top. :) Cheers!

[@NavJack3078]

Stash? So you like hide it somewhere like in a bush and explore the city or wherever you are?

[@brucewmclaughlin9072]

My panniers weigh about 4.5 pounds and the trailer ( single wheel Bob ) I used to have weighed 12 pounds. Trailer was great as you do not feel it at all till you go up, as in up anything. Properly loaded panniers and weight distributed evenly will enhance your ride. if you can borrow a trailer take it out for a test ride loaded and see for your self how it feels. Load it with potatoes , then do the same with panniers front and back . Test everything and decide what you want.

[@MrSharpshooterimages]

great videos dave im watching all of them keep up the brill work.

[@telemachin]

I changed my bike, now i use a 8kg Lapierre road bike instead of a 16kg hybrid, i can't install a rack on it, i'm using a bob yak trailer and a bikepacking saddle bag ( a little handlebar pouch and one on the top tube.) The good point with the trailer is that you don't have to "dig" into the pannier. And most peoples find the trailer fun looking.

[@ceen3237]

Just a pipe dream, but was thinking it would be cool to tour around Europe to Alpe d'huez, Sa Colabra and other iconic climbs, in these situations you could have a lighter bike decent at climbing with a trailer that could be left at the camp site/hotel.

[@pip1980]

Thanks a lot for the video. I use both, depending on the ride. I am not touring at the moment though, just commuting and grocery shopping, hopefully camping with my family once the kids are old enough. We have the Carryfreedom Y-frame large for large shopping trips (using a 60L plastic crate on there. Could use two of those if necesary), and also a Burley Cub for bringing our daughter to nursery. For certain types of tours I would say the cargo trailer can be better than paniers, for example riding with kids where you have to carry their stuff as well, or just when a lot of gear is necessary. the Y-frame weighs ~8kg so uphill is noticeable, but for a trailer it is ok I think (yet excluding the necessary bags or crates on top). It allows for better organising and access to certain items during the ride, so you dont have to go through the bags. Also bulky items are no longer an issue (we got our small Christmas tree home with the trailer :). I use Vaude paniers everyday since 10 years with no sign of wear, they are great. When using the trailer I usually still keep my valuables and change of cloths for work in the paniers. the paniers then go in the empty trailer on the way there, and on the way back I put them on the bike rack. On a bike tour I would always take paniers even when also taking a trailer. THey dont add much weight, but add flexibility, e.g. when setting up in one place, using the paniers on short trips around the area.

[@DaveBriggs]

I had a set of the older Vaude panniers, and thought they were excellent! Certainly riding with kids a trailer would be a great asset. Not only can you take their stuff, but it would help slow the main rider down to the slower rider's pace!

[@Hootyhoo-jq9vq]

Nice information. 4 panniers and ultimate6 medium for me. I am not opposed to a trailer, but have done well enough with racks and panniers.

[@buffplums]

Brilliant video chap thanks

[@victorrice4549]

this is really good advice, thanks!

[@fanom1]

I have used both. As a photographer I like the trailer as I can carry more stuff. I find a fully loaded touring bike with front and rear panniers can make the bike a bit unstable....

[@Jeep-Addicts]

Great information friend safe travels.

[@leoburns9674]

Just ‘re-purchased’ a BON Ibex trailer for my 29 hardtail. Riding the GAP trail and after going hyper light with frame/seat/roll bags... BOB is a welcomed return. One bag, tracks well and I can (and do) carry the kitchen sink... Life is short, carry what makes life enjoyable - if your camping... trailer. Ps... cars give you greater spacing when passing. 😊

[@brianbassett4379]

I load four panniers, bar-bag, and fully loaded suspension trailer. So that I am alive at the end of the day, or climb, I use a 750w BaFang center drive. I like creature comforts.

[@rcsharkman]

amen

[@hippyswift]

very good info my friend keep up your adventures and stay safe buddy ;)

[@woodsidechase3399]

Good information. Thanks 👍

[@TheNickFlynn]

Thanks for that ... made a lot of sense and helped me out.

[@ArchimedesWoo]

I agree that Ortlieb make very durable panniers. I still have a complete set of their _Classic_ model in lovely dark green from the 90's. They are looking a little cracked and battered these days, but still do the job. My favourites however are my trusty Carradice Super C's which have lasted equally as long, despite suffering far greater abuse over far greater distances. The Super C's are made from tough waxed canvas making them both waterproof and breathable, something I have found advantageous when touring in hot humid countries like Thailand and Laos. They are slightly lighter and roomier than the Ortliebs, and do not suffer from the outer plastic coating cracking, which eventually seems to happen to the Ortliebs. Being waxed canvas, one can simply clean and then re-wax the Super C's as often as one may wish. I agree with you totally regarding your trailer experiences. One thing I'd like to add is that they can be a right pain if one needs to use a lift at an airport or train station, or when getting on and off trains/buses. It's so much easier just to wheel the bike complete with panniers into and out of such situations. I really enjoyed following your recent travels from Greece to the UK, and wish you the very best of luck in all your future endeavours. Keep pedaling! ;-)

[@DaveBriggs]

I will have to get hold of some Carradice panniers and test them out!

[@randyreboberton6263]

Thank you Dave...good info balance

[@DaveBriggs]

Glad it was helpful!

[@BosisofSweden]

Pannier vs trailer; I have a standard bike, not a touring bike, and it doesn't carry the weight well if I only use panniers. Trailer also gives me another option which is to put all the bulk in the trailer and use panniers as well but have the smaller stuff there, like rain gear, food, electronics, clothing, dog food (yes, I carry a tiny dog as well) and tools. I would not use front panniers with my trailer but I have a large dog basket in the front, mounted on the frame of the bike, not on the steering wheel. Weight wise I think you get something like this: The lightest trailer I know of is the Topeak at app. 5 kg + bag maybe 7 kg including everything. Panniers can be almost a kg each and then two racks so yes, you probably save some weight with panniers but is it noticeable unless you are really, really experienced? I don't think I would notice except for maybe uphill.

[@longrider42]

I used a Burley Nomad trailer on RAGBRAI 2012, it made things much easier when I needed to carry extra things like water. I should mention I ride a Sun Sport AX two wheel Recumbent bike. And although I can carry two sets of panniers, I still find it handy to pull a trailer, and remember just because you have the room does not mean you have to fill it up.

[@DaveBriggs]

Yep I imagine that if there's not enough room on the recumbent, then a trailer would be the only viable alternative. What was it like on steep inclines though?

[@longrider42]

Slow but I have a low gear of 26 front chain ring and a 37 large cog on the cassette. So low and slow, but I get where I'm going.

[@adamnovak1878]

Wery well said. As a tandem users we like trailer. Is much faster to unpack. One bag and done. But uphill, man this is torture :)

[@brianbassett4379]

And Torture is a Bad thing! Ad on a 750w BaFang motor with a Rohloff Speed-hub. Then you can ever put panniers on with the trailer and travel in comfort.

[@galehess6676]

It is easy and for a single a racing bike and trailer is ideal, 15# bike and 13# trailer is same weight as a touring bike's extra over built heft.

[@sailingaeolus]

Many thanks for posting. I live in the USA desert southwest and carrying water (like gallons) on a few of the fat bike trips I want to take is something. I mean it may be three or four days of pedaling the back roads of Death Valley before restocking. I've never had 30 lbs of water on panniers. Any comment or thoughts? Better for a trailer?

[@DaveBriggs]

I'd say a trailer would suit you better in this circumstance. Check out Green Travel Bicycle Touring - he's got a few videos of cycling with a fat bike + trailer: kzbin.info/door/ixDe2nzRXRb1LZca59K7Gg

[@sailingaeolus]

@@DaveBriggs Many thanks. Yeah, I've seen all his videos. Interesting how he started out on a mountain bike with a trailer and ended up on a fat bike with panniers and bags. Another youtube fellow ("foresty forest") came through the desert southwest and rode Death Valley. Awesome videos but I have no idea how he carried enough water. I know the country he covered and its a long way between watering holes.

[@MissingTrails]

I've taken one bicycle tour on a Specialized Crosstrail (a hybrid, certainly not a touring bike) with rear panniers only, staying in cheap hotels. I have been considering using a trailer to enable my bicycle to carry as much as a proper touring bike could, allowing me to carry enough food and water and gear to camp and cross longer distances between major towns--essential to touring in my new home state of Wyoming. Any thoughts, kind uploader and/or fellow viewers?

[@denverspin]

The BoB Yak is a great trailer for what you’ve described

[@garydaniel8096]

MR. CLEAN!

[@davidcollishaw2771]

When I go paintballing for the weekend I end up with loaded front and rear panniers AND a trailer. extreme touring. my biggest issue was 67 punctures in one tyre when I got some hawthorn stuck in it. I've got a topeak journey and a radical designs which are light and easy to attach, I can't knock them as it makes packing less of a chore and having had the shimmy of death with front panniers it can be safer with a light trailer. on and off trains can be easier than having to unload the bike and carry it in and out onto a crowded platform. My legs for some reason have decided they don't want to play anymore at the same level so I'm experimenting with a mid drive system to get them working again and a trailer enables me to carry a solar panel and charger for the battery taking me off grid. the trailer takes my camp set up. as ever kissing gates are an arse no matter what you do and also when the national cycle route decides to take you over railway bridges.

[@bighorncountry]

I use a Burley Nomad trailer and really like it. A trailer allows almost ANY bike to be used as a touring rig with no modification. I've struggled to fit racks and bags on non-touring specific bikes and disc-brakes make things worse.. I use a Specialized Tricross and generally take overnight bike camping trips. Thanks for the video!

[@Auxinelectro]

bighorncountry you had any problems with water ingress into the trailer? or bearing problems?

[@bighorncountry]

G dizzle I haven't taken it in the rain.

[@Auxinelectro]

Thanks mate seen some reviews where a guy had problems im possibly looking at a Bob ibex but also have panniers so maybe just use them. Think I'm just a sucker for buying new gear ;-)

[@bighorncountry]

G dizzle. I just took an overnight trip using 4 panniers instead of my Burley. I really missed my Burley.. Most people seem to like the BOB trailer, but I had one and found it somewhat awkward. Love the Burley.

[@Auxinelectro]

bighorncountry thanks mate that's food for thought appreciate your speedy replies it's a lot of money and great to have real world people giving opinions thanks mate

[@marksadventures3889]

Just up my alley; right, panniers - for years and years i used panniers and they became my bug bare. I like a nice cycle ride, no rush get from camp site to camp site, have what I want and for that reason _ I'm going with the trailer for a while and maybe even both for the long haul. Working in logistics and packing I'm a pro at packing my stuff. I hate packet food at the best of times so want to cook proper food. I'm taking my Aladdin single camp burner, light weight pans and will buy fresh food from local farmer's markets. I keep clothes down to a minimum and will be getting a solar panel thingy to charge my electrics, phone, lights, etc. I hope soon to be getting started with an electrical assisted recumbent trike for which i can have a tent trailer- fully loaded. Happy days. I commute to many of my jobs by mountain bike up here in the Pennines sometimes over 30 miles. Next month I'm 57.

[@DaveBriggs]

Would love to hear more about the electric assist trike when you get it up and running - sounds like a great project!

[@tconnolly9820]

Fair dues to you man. I'm just a little younger than you and I have never been more than 30 miles in a round trip. I have gotten into cycling more in the last few years for exercise and recreation. Not to prove my fitness or to defy age. No lycra at all ever. I have a pretty basic about town type bike and would ride 6 km to get a small family grocery shop using 2 x 20 litre pannier bags which would hold about 30 filled to the brim and one or two extra large or heavy items on the carrier between them. Just last week I got a Trixie large pet trailer but I intended to use it for grocery shopping. It's fully enclosed and weather proof. Pack your large reusable shopping bags at the checkout as you would if you had the car with you. Just sit the bags already packed inside the trailer and zip it up. Throw any other loose miscellaneous items in anywhere, large or small. Nothing needs to be secured. Nothing will fall out. I had approximately 45kgs in it on the first run. I wanted to give the trailer, the bike and myself a proper first trial run. The same full weeks plus shopping I would normally have in the boot of the car. It was only a little harder than cycling home with less than half that on the carrier and bags. I was very happy with the experience. Because I didn't want to go too fast for safety I kept to a mid range gear. Actually because it is basically a fairly large canvas covered tent on wheels that I'm pulling behind me, on the way into town facing into a strong headwind is where I really noticed the difference. Aerodynamic it sure ain't! But I'm never going to go touring with this. It's intended only for practical "local" use. Living 6km from my nearest shops and supermarket's, I just wanted to prove that it's easily possible to shop for a family and do most things that you would normally need a car for. And get a little exercise and burn a little less carbon too. If the weather's really crap I'll still take the car. I'm not a bloody zealot! Possibly the wrong forum for this reply but I thought I'd share a different perspective on bike trailers.

[@christopherb3798]

I will be going on a 500 mile trip this spring in central Illinois. Half the trip is on a bike trail that is pavment, gravel, an dirt in some parts. The rest of the trip is going to be on side country roads. I have been debating between panniers an a trailer for a little while. I am worried if I use pannier I will be putting stress on my rear tire, but also worried if I bring a trailer the hills although not a ton will be brutal. Is there a unspoken weight limit for rear panniers so I don't stress my rear tire? I'm looking forward to my first solo trip an would really hate to spend it fixing spokes the entire trip. thanks

[@DaveBriggs]

Hi - That sounds like an awesome trip! I hope you have a good time out on the road :) In terms of your direct concerns, you are correct that panniers will put more strain on the rear wheel than a trailer would. Even balancing it out with front panniers, your combined weight of yourself and the panniers inevitably puts more strain on the rear wheel. If you are touring with a standard road bike (lightweight, not many spokes) a trailer would be better. HOWEVER, if you have even a half decent touring bike with a strong back wheel (36 spokes would be great!), then it shouldn't be an issue at all. The vast majority of cycle tourists go with panniers rather than trailers after all!. In terms of tyre wear - 500 miles is not so much to worry about. Rotating back and front tyres every month on a long distance cycle tour is a good routine to get into. In terms of weight - There is no real unspoken rule. It's really going to come down to the quality of the wheels. Conclusion - It all comes down to 'depends' as so much does, as no one solution fits all! My take, is if you have a road bike you want to take touring, then perhaps go for the trailer. If you have a touring bike, or a bike with a strong back wheel then stick to panniers - Just make sure the rack is strong as well! Extra note - A cassette removal tool is something a lot of people overlook when packing gear to take with them. This is essential to remove the rear cassette if spokes on the back wheel are broken!

[@christopherb3798]

Thanks for the quick reply. I currently own a road bike but have been debating getting hybrid. I really enjoy my road bike cause I feel I can cover large amount of ground quickly while comfortable. I currently don't have the funds for a nice touring bike just yet. Thank you very much for the advice. I will make sure I know which bike I will be taking before I decide fully what gear I need. Thanks, Christopher B

[@DaveBriggs]

No problem - my pleasure! From as you describe it, I would say that a trailer would be the best option without a change of bike. Happy tailwinds for your journey!

[@DaveBriggs]

No problem - my pleasure! From as you describe it, I would say that a trailer would be the best option without a change of bike. Happy tailwinds for your journey!

[@bobloblawb2593]

Just my opinion here but if you are looking at the price of a trailer you might be better off getting a rear wheel that is built for touring vs what you have now. I made my own panniers with Vytex fabric from www.amfab.ca/contact-american-fabricators/ and they work very well. may not be as pretty as store bought but they do exactly what I want . 67 liter capacity and aerodynamic.

[@ronsmith5572]

Iv'e never had any problems going up hill with my Ibex trailer.Even going up long steep inclines and i have had it loaded with 50 + lbs of camping gear in it . Once you start moving the load momentum will start pushing you up the hill . I know that for a fact .

[@skfoxjrxzz5051]

Can the rack break if you put too much things in the pannier?

[@DaveBriggs]

Yes it can, especially weaker ones. A heavy duty one like a Tubus is a good idea. Steel is best as it can be welded if it breaks. Normally, if they are going to break, it will be at the lowest connection points with the frame.

[@skfoxjrxzz5051]

Dave Briggs thanks for the reply!

[@brianbassett4379]

My bike (Panamericana) carries 20 lbs. on each corner, 10+ in the bar-bag, and pulls a trailer with over 90 lbs. All the weight is fully suspended. Do lots of research on your racks.

[@eliseoborrerobass]

I have not done a long bike tour, but I do use the "Travoy" trailer to get groceries etc. I combine it with a back pack for lighter stuff and it works really well. The problem that I see with the panniers is that you need a strong bike to carry the weight. I've had a lot of broken spokes when I originally got my road bike just because I am 185lbs. I solved the problem by having my wheels rebuilt with better spokes; however, with the trailer, that does not happen, but If you are going to do a lot of off road traveling, then just get a good touring bike with the panniers. Also I have not gotten any flats since I installed the kevlar strip on my tires (including the trailer).

[@DaveBriggs]

Yep, road bikes aren't really ideal for touring, but a trailer takes away some of the broken spoke problems. I'm around the same weight, so prefer a heavy duty touring bike most of the time!

[@brianbassett4379]

If you want a pack horse you have to pick him out special. Start with 26" wheels, and a build in rear rack, no bolt-ons.

[@bobloblawb2593]

3:27 sometimes it is really nice not to know what you are going to climb.

[@DaveBriggs]

Very true!

[@Arbeedubya]

In the case of someone who's going to be taking things leisurely and is going to be far more concerned with having as many of the conveniences of home as is practical--for example, a two or three burner stove and a small ice chest--than with how fast ground can be covered, why not both panniers and a trailer? I wouldn't want to be so weighed down I couldn't make 20 miles in a day on flat ground, but I would want my tour to be an enjoyable experience, not a test of my stamina and endurance.

[@galehess6676]

And again I say to you, "why not both..." enjoy the xperience, AND get an endurance work out (no need to test the limits, just get a good workout). But, LOL Holy Smokes. That is next level touring, like an RV. You are my hero. I thought my aluminum-poled 3 man tent, collapsible cooler bag and gallon of water were a bit much... apparently I have a ways to go, but I do have the suspension version B.O.B., and it does take some of the rattle off the rear on off-road canal tow paths that were just washed out by flooding on the C&O out of D.C., and on to Pittsburgh in 2011.

[@rcsharkman]

ride electric dont even know all that stuff is there

[@The-GreenHornet]

That sounds all good typing that, BUT what so many people make the mistake is wanting to be COMFORTABLE on their tour. That two weeks or more of day after day after day of riding brings out the reality of.... MAN!..This is too HEAVY! The whole point of touring is to get away from the creature comforts of home, and ruff it a little. The most important things that any tourist needs is PLENTY OF WATER and proper FOOD as fuel. Which so many inexperienced tourers make this mistake. And the second thing that is needed is.... proper clothing that is LIGHTWEIGHT! Thin wicking type clothing that can be washed in a sink if needed and dries quickly. As well as lightweight WARM clothing and... lightweight rain gear. Those are the most important things when touring for a considerable amount of time; Water, proper food to fuel your body, lightweight clothing for hot and cold weather conditions. After this, it's all subjective as to what type of other necessities you want. Cooking/ or simple non cooked food meals. How many changes of clothing?; 2 pair?, 3 pair? How much do you want to do laundry; and carry a bunch of dirty smelly clothes until you can clean them? Then comes all the needless nick-nack items that many think they need. So much can be left at home, or if really necessary, can be bought on the road at a later date. I've been on two smaller tours of 1000 miles combined here in the united states. And I feel that that was enough miles to know that less is really the way to go. But I'm not talking about a weight weanie; Only carrying a toothbrush and an extra pair of underwear...LOL. 3 pairs of lightweight wicking type clothing: shirts, socks, underwear and bicycle pants/shorts, and a pair of lightweight off bike pants. They sell these types of pants at camping stores; they aren't cheap, but worth it. The legs zip off to become shorts. Bicycle shoes...NOPE! no two pairs of shoes for me. Too much weight and space. I have just one comfortable pair of shoes for on/off my recumbent trike. Your tour will be so much more comfortable and enjoyable if you get the right mindset to ruff it a little, not a lot, but don't bring the kitchen sink on your tour.

[@DavidCulshawmer-r]

I've never used a trailer but I have seen the odd person using them and they struggle like buggery up the hills where I live , panniers for me on my 1st tour next year :)

[@galehess6676]

Not a chance. 15# racing bike with 13# trailer is right at the average 25-30# touring bike weight. Gearing??

[@scotticus80]

If I am not taking my packraft and all of my whitewater gear, I need neither. Sometimes I don't even need either with my packrafting gear.

[@N3wt199]

I am going on my first trip next year! I am going to use a trailer.. I have used trailers for transporting my kids for years... I see the pros and cons for both products..

[@DaveBriggs]

good luck on your first tour! I'm sure if you are already used to towing a trailer, it is going to suit you just fine :)

[@SirBobbyDuncan]

Trailer all day. Especially while resupplying at a grocery store, or scoping out a town. Lock up your bike, walk around with the trailer.

[@velotill]

did my big tours (Germany>Caucasus 2x, Morocco>Madrid etc.) on a 28' with Ortliebs everywhere. Now I own a steel 26' and am thinking putting in a Bafang G310 into the front wheel, one large battery on the rear rack, two spare ones and all the other stuff onto the trailer (thinking burley coho xc) maybe with two additional frontrollers on the extra rack. All this to a) reduce weight and strain put on the bike itself (me being a heavy set guy nowadays) b) increase my daily mileage to be able to do transeuropean trips like Berlin>Madrid in three weeks rather than two months and c) have the option to attach a rig holding flexible PV panels to the trailer to be even more independent. Watching Sun Trip Solar bike race and Jack Butlers set-up has really inspired me kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJi8oJSqr8t9oqs

[@PL-tn9bm]

Hi Dave, I did a test ride with the Burley Coho XC trailer with about 20 lbs on a paved road. My bike swayed a lot, and eventually I crashed because of the force that the trailer exhibits on the rear wheel. I explain more on my review and highlight another person's review that was taken down by Burley that explains the issue. I have since started training with racks and panniers with slightly more weight, and I have found the panniers to be much more stable. I am a small woman, and I believe that because women have far less upper body mass and strength, the trailer option is quite dangerous because you have to be able to countersteer the trailer wag that the Burley Coho XC induces. Here is where you can find my review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6Wke55ra7yKbck.

[@richardwaring8613]

Sounds like you suffered from 'shimmy'. I had a two wheel trailer which had a hitch under the saddle. Unless the trailer was lightly loaded and nose heavy an oscillation was set up which became worse at normal speeds. I adapted it to have a low axle hitch and the shimmy disappeared. If you have the shimmy on a low hitch then making sure the tyres are the correct pressure and the loading of the trailer is nose heavy may help. Shimmy is frightening when your steering is hijacked by the forces generated by the trailer and can be very dangerous if it happens at speed. I am about to try a single wheel trailer and I think that shimmy is not going to be a problem.

[@clovergrass9439]

A trailer would put less stress and wear and tear on a bicycle...just an idea...

[@TALIAMO65]

On a fully, a Trailer is the best solution.

[@DaveBriggs]

If it works for you - great! I'd never go back to a trailer again if you paid me though!

[@benjaminvillasenor9064]

I need my cooler. Say Hi trailer