Gear
There are some basic important things you will need to get started bikerafting, but once the investment is made it pays big dividends.
Bike Gear
Bike: Kind of obvious here. You can generally use any bike that you already own, but here are some considerations. If you will be doing quite a bit of “Lock-n-Paddle/Paddle-n-Unlock” trips you may want an old, low value bike to deter theft. If your trip will be on gravel or single-track you will want a bike to handle the appropriate terrain. If you are planning trips that will require camping gear, you may want a bikepacking specific bike. These usually have many mounting bosses for attaching gear to the bike. Also consider the simplicity of a Single Speed bike for bikerafting.
Helmet: Protect that big brain with a biff bucket.
Bike Repair Kit: Spare tube, mini pump, multi-tool with chain tool, tire levers, patch kit, tire-plugs/sealant/valve core tool (if tubeless), chain quick link, spare derailleur hanger, etc.
Bike Lights: Make yourself visible on the roads with rear and front blinking lights.
Bike Lock: If doing “Lock-n-Paddle/Paddle-n-Unlock” you will need a bike lock.
Straps/Bungees: You will need a way to attach your packraft and paddle shafts to your handlebars. It can also be carried in a large backpack or on a rear rack. The straps/bungees will also work for strapping the bike to the packraft if doing “One-Stop-Adventure” trips.
Bike Shoes: If running clipless pedals.
Gloves: User preference and weather dependent.
Clothes: Dress in layers appropriate for the weather. It’s a good idea to have a spare set of dry clothes for riding after a paddle session.
Backpack: Optional, but can carry your food/water, PFD, paddle, clothes and other gear.
Bike Bags/Handlebar Harness: Optional, don’t think that you need a set of expensive bike bags to go bikerafting. It can easily be accomplished with straps and bungees and a backpack. However, these can make life much nicer to haul packrafts, paddles and other gear. Handlebar harness systems work well for strapping a packraft and paddle shafts. Frame bags can carry food/water/clothes/bike repair kit/etc. Seat bags can carry additional gear.
Bike Racks: Optional, there are front and rear models to chose from. These can help take weight off a backpack and transfer it to the bike.
Paddle Gear
Packraft: One of the biggest investment items on the whole gear list. It may even cost more than your bike. These are now coming in many different models depending on what type of water you are targeting and gear you want to haul. For simple low-class bikepacking adventures an open cockpit packraft can work very well. Just remember, cheap rubber rafts are not the same as reputable packrafts and may leave you stranded or even worse.
Paddle: Typically you will want a collapsable paddle (i.e. 4 piece) for bikerafting.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD): They only work if you wear them. Put a whistle on your PFD.
Wetsuit/Drysuit/Booties: Another big investment item is your drysuit. If you are paddling snowfed whitewater you will need one. For warmer waters, a wetsuit may be ok. The rule of thumb is to dress for a potential swim.
Packraft Repair Kit: These can vary depending on the length and remoteness of the trip. Items to consider: Tyvek® tape, Aquaseal®, sewing kit, Alcohol wipes, Patch kits, Scissors, Lighter, etc. More info
Drybags: Keep your gear dry (clothes, food, electronics, etc.).
Straps/Bungees: Strap your bike/wheels/bags to your boat
Safety Gear: River knife on PFD, Whistle on PFD, throw rope, Locking carabiners, etc.
Whitewater Helmet: Protect that big brain from rocks and logs. Note: Bike helmets are not a substitute for whitewater rated helmets.