Cargo Biking Essentials

What to Carry on Your Cargo Bike:
Tips and Essentials from Xtracycle

by Jamie Tibbetts


Cargo bikes are built for carrying everything you need, big or small, and take you where you’re headed. When outfitted with some helpful accessories, your carrying capacity rivals many cars! Whether you’re picking up the kids from school or heading out for a grocery run, here’s how to ditch the car keys and get the most out of your cargo bike.

Up Front Storage

Up Front Storage


The PorterPack front rack bag is a go-to for daily essentials. It’s perfect for tossing in whatever you need easy access to while riding, or anything you need to lay flat (think takeout). From snacks to water bottles and reusable shopping bags, it keeps everything organized and within reach.

Essential Tools & Gear

Essential Tools & Gear

Carrying a basic toolkit is always a great idea, and you can easily fit everything you need in your front bag, or another pocket on your bike. A basic multitool, spare tubes, tire irons, and a mini first-aid kit are your essentials.


A stowable bike pump and some tow straps complete your kit. Being prepared for the unexpected is key when you’re out and about. 

Gadgets & Goodies

Gadgets & Goodies

A handlebar phone mount and a battery pack are great for staying connected on the go. A mountable Bluetooth speaker for some riding tunes can add great vibes when you’re on the move, or for when you arrive at your destination.


You’ll get a lot of use out of a light, stashable blanket (or even a packable folding chair) for those impromptu park hangs and picnics with the kids.

Kid-Friendly Packables

Kid-Friendly Packables

For little passengers it's smart to keep some basic spare clothes on your bike along with a wet bag in case of any fun surprises. Keep a cache of diaper essentials for the younger ones.


It's easy to work up an appetite when you're having fun, so it’s a great idea to keep some snacks and water on the bike. Tangerines, apple sauce squeezies and trail mix all keep well and pack small.

Flexibile Cargo Capacity

Flexibile Cargo Capacity

Xtracycles are designed to handle up to 470 lbs, so you never have to worry about loading it up. Included foot rails make it easy to secure bulky items with cargo straps (Costco run, anyone?) or tow additional bikes when needed. The rear bags are spacious enough to carry groceries, backpacks, and jackets and newfound treasures


If you’re riding solo or even with a passenger, the Hooptie doubles as a great cargo-hold that easily fits larger items and bags. Or fit it with a tote bin and use it like the bed of a truck.

At Xtracycle, we pride ourselves in creating bikes that are easy to ride and incredibly capable. On an Xtracycle you should feel ready for anything – whether it’s a daily commute or a weekend adventure.


If you have any riding tips or personal hacks you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you! Tag us on your social posts @xtracycle or click below to share your stories and experiences.

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