How to pack for a Cycletour - in 1887
Cycling Article Index
- don't forget your 'combinations' and Deer-Stalker...
I have in my posession an 1887 copy of the Badminton Library's 'Cycling' book. This is a substancial volume covering all aspects of cycling at that time and is utterly fascinating - both to see the changes that have taken place and the things that have stayed the same. Here are a few short pieces lifted from this age where the Penny Farthing Bicycle was king, where there were no cars and when 'Gentlemen' rode bikes:-)
The rider who ventures far afield with a limited outfit will have to exercise a little care in his proceedings; as soon as he has quite finished his work for the day he should get out of his damp underclothing and get into his dry Combination as quickly as possible ', over it he may, if necessity requires, safely put his damp shirt—of course supposing it to be flannel—whilst the dry neck wrapper should be put on under the band of the shirt. The dry and clean stock- ings, which should be kept for this purpose and not used for riding in, will prove an immense comfort. They should be long, and the wearer should draw them up as far as they will come over the knee ; thus next the skin all over he will have a dry change. Next morning his convenient little pocket-case will enable him comfortably to conduct his toilet.
The tricyclist, as was pointed out above, is decidedly better off in this matter, and can easily carry more luggage ', at the same time the weight carried is decidedly a factor to be considered in studying the convenience of the rider. Even the strongest and most steadygoing of cyclists will do well to take care not to overweight himself in this direction. The following will be found to be the best and most useful additions to the kit, which may also be carried by a bicyclist with a little extra trouble and care. The Combination garment will still be found of the greatest service, and should, of course, be taken; but a flannel shirt, preferably with a collar, should be added and used solely for the evening wear, whilst the riding shirt is being carefully dried. The pocket dressing-case will also be still used, but a stout sponge-bag should be carried with a rubber band round it, containing sponge, tooth-powder, and brush. A soft cloth hat of the deer-stalker shape, which folds up flat, should be added, and the handkerchiefs) neck wrap) and stockings.
A Small Favour
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