Far and away the most popular choice, panniers attached to a pannier rack and make carrying a large volume of kit easy.

Panniers affect the feel if your bike – adding the weight to the rear which makes climbing out of the saddle feel a little odd initially. However, this will pass once you get used to it, just give yourself a few miles to become accustomed. It is wise to try to make sure the weight in each pannier is fairly equal if you can.

Altura make the Arran panniers which are a popular option, and come in at just over £30 each. For extra cash, you can get waterproof options, but the Arran panniers are hard wearing, with plenty of extra pockets so you can organise your gear if you like to keep it neat. ToPeak make a sturdy Super Tourist DX Rear Rack which is made from lightweight aluminium and is strong enough for the average load.

If your bike does not have mounts for a pannier rack, or you don’t fancy the weight on the rear wheel, there are other options. For example, Alpkit make the Stingray frame bag –  which is custom sized to fit in the triangle of your frame, allowing you to make use of this space and minimising effect on bike handling.

Experts in Bike Packing and Adventure Cycling, Alpkit also sell Koala seat packs that attach to your seat post and saddle rails and will take 13litres of kit.

You can opt for a simple backpack – but this can become uncomfortable, with all the weight sitting on your back, which can be arduous for your poor shoulders, and can make you pretty hot and sweaty, so it’s best avoided unless you are travelling very light.