Take a Dip with Xtracycle

Something that took me some time to learn as a cargo bike Dad was having a versatile set of inexpensive items that always live on the bike – that way I won’t ever forget them. They can be used in a number of everyday activities, and even extraordinary trips to the beach.

These include packing an inexpensive trucker-style baseball cap (clipped to the hooptie railing), sunscreen (my kids are partial to any spray variety), a bike lock (I keep two on my rig for extra peace of mind), non-perishable snacks (dried mango, anyone?), a clip-on Bluetooth speaker (I like the 174 Hudson Speaker, which mounts nicely to the handlebars or the Hooptie), and a small battery pack and cable to charge my phone and the speaker. 

On a cargo bike, space is a little more limited than a car or minivan, so it's helpful to have items that won’t take up more space than needed. I’ve been pretty into the Rumpl quick-dry towels lately, which are light, and fold up very easily. Colorful Mexican serapes are also a nice touch! Picnic blanket, anyone?

Similarly, it’s nice to have some extra layers in case the temperature drops in the evening (as it does around here in the Bay Area). Some thin options that also work well as sun coverage might be a Wuru sun hoodie, or something similar. (Your kiddo may also want a change of clothes for that post-splashing sesh!)

The Xtracycle has so much space that you’re obviously also going to want to pack up some drinks. Maybe pick up a small soft-sided cooler and a reusable ice pack for a few drinks. (In my household we’re partial to La Croix and Hop Water!) This fits perfectly in the Xtracycle’s PorterPack for easy access.

Maybe toss in a bottle opener/corkscrew combo to keep in there, just in case you have time for some adult beverages, if that's your vibe? Don't forget some insulated cups/wine glasses if you want to really up your game.

One huge advantage of an Xtracycle is those extra long cargo bags on the side, which can easily hold an upright beach umbrella. (You may want some NRS tie-downs to keep it secure against the hooptie railing!) Shade is super important, especially if you’re going to be out on the beach for multiple hours. Some varieties of beach tents or umbrellas (like the Sun Ninja) even pack up into a very bikeable and packable bag.

It’s always nice to have a few items to throw around at the water’s edge. In our house, we’re fans of squish balls that can bounce on water, along with a frisbee or two. My kiddos also love the “Surfer Dudes,” little toys that are easy-to-use surfer figurines that will always be brought back by a wave. I’m a fan of using a giant blue IKEA bag, which fit nicely in the BoomBox bags to hold all of this stuff!

Or just go big and bring all the floaties! There's always room on the Xtracycle ;-)