Bikepacking hacks: Four useful bikepacking upgrades for less than 50 euros

The following parts belong exactly in this category. They are inconspicuous and cost little, but can save your arse in an emergency.

Voilé straps - fix everything quickly

Two are super versatile Voilé Straps (or comparable TPU straps). They can be used to attach anything anywhere on the bike: a wet jacket on the outside of your luggage, a torn saddlebag strap can be temporarily replaced and so on. A combination of a longer strap for bulky items and a shorter one for smaller items has proved its worth. Their advantage: they also work reliably in the dirt and rain, where Velcro has long since given up.

Mini rucksack

An upgrade that many only miss after the first tour is an ultra-lightweight one, packable mini rucksack for spontaneous and planned shopping. A small, separate bag ensures that you can transport bread, snacks or a hot meal without having to dismantle your entire setup.

Household rubber gloves - little helpers in wet conditions

A simple trick for rainy days: a pair of thin household rubber gloves in your luggage. If a lot of rain is expected, I put on thin cycling gloves and the rubber overgloves on top and I have to say that I was really impressed from the first time I used them. I always have them with me now.

Survival trick from Arctic expeditions: An insulating glove on top. This technique is called a vapour barrier and has saved many a finger. - Jan Timmermann, TOUR editor

Frame protection film - small investment, big benefits

An often underestimated upgrade is the Frame protection film or a cheaper alternative film. Especially when bikepacking, when bags, straps or pieces of luggage rub against the frame, it protects the paintwork and material from scratches and abrasion. Dust and crumbs otherwise get everywhere and work like sandpaper on the paintwork.

Thin, self-adhesive films can be applied almost invisibly to high-stress areas - wherever the bike and bag come into contact. They cost little, weigh practically nothing and noticeably extend the service life of your frame.

Particularly practical: the frame protection film also reduces the risk of damage to the paintwork in the event of minor falls or knocks and ensures that you don't have to polish or paint your bike as often.