Different schools of thought say different things about which tools you should and shouldn’t take on a cycling tour. Most are strongly in favour of taking multi tool, others are vehemently against it, arguing it’s better to have just the specific tools that work for your bike. Down to personal preference in the end, your tool kit is something that will evolve over time, but a good starting point would be these items: a set of Allen keys for the bolts on your bike, a pair of small screwdrivers, a pair of metal tyre levers, a small pair of pliers, a chain tool, a monkey wrench spanner and a spoke tightening key. Park Tool is the best brand to supply these.

Price: £2.99-£17.99, available from Chain Reaction Cycles.