Need to have - tools

​So here’s a list of what tools you really do need. Like not the nice to have the actual need to have. 
 
First things first, as a general concept, the longer the tool is, the better – as they say…  – no but for real, the bigger the tool is, the easier it will be to use (more power!). Okay, I don’t know if that sounded better, but you get the point…

​I’m writing this to you, who might not own a tool, but started cycling and doesn’t know where to start. All the screws on your bike will be either be Torx or Allen keys in a few different sizes. Allen keys can also be called Hex, referring to the 6 sides. As I’m an ambassador for the Tool (and bike-packing) brand Topeak, all my recommendations will be from this brand. 

So, while we are still on the topic of big tools, let’s start there.  . I would recommend that you get some big allen keys in size 6 and 8. Why? Because these two sizes will often be used for you pedals and crank. Maybe you will never try to take out your crank – but to take off the pedals is quite useful (and they get stuck so easily). Could be these, strong and a good handle: 
www.topeak.com/global/en/product/555-DUOHEX-TOOL-6---8---10-MM

The Torx, which is looking more like a star, can be used at your handlebar, the stem, brakes and also often the seatpost. It differs from bike to bike, so check yours. But you need a Torx set whatsoever, it’s a must. A set will have different sizes, could be this:  www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1810-TORX-WRENCH-SET-DX

Alongside the Torx set, you could also purchase an Allen key set, which can also replace the big single ones (6,8,10). An idea could be to start with the key set from 1,5 to 10, and see if you need bigger handles, for a couple of sizes. I personally like to have the extra ones. A set could be: ​www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1811-DUOHEX-WRENCH-SET-DX

Next up: A multi-tool. A multi-tool is a tool which has multiple functions, as the name kind of reveals. This is a must, because it’s something you will also bring with you when you ride. It could be stored in a saddlebag together with a spare tube and tire levers. I like this one: www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1627-BURRITO-PACK-slim. It’s kind of cute in the burrito style. For a mulit-tool the Tubi 18 is a good option. 
www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1343-TUBI-18 , quite doable. But there is so many good choices, just make sure that one of the tools can take off your wheel! Uh, reminds me you also need pumps. ​
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A to-go pump for your rides you can have in your pocket, or fix on your bike together with one of your bottle cages. I like this one:
 www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1446-GRAVEL-2STAGE
and there is also mount included, so your pockets can be empty. With a pump and your saddle bag with all the stuff – you will be unstoppable ;-) 
But for your home, you need a floor pump. The small pump can do, buuuuut a proper big pump will change your life, haha. A floor pump is so good, I got this one; ​
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www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1562-JOEBLOW-MOUNTAIN-EX

​Now, when we are in the tire area, two bigger tire levers are nice to have, if you don’t have so much finger strength and you like your nails, two big ones can be quite powerful to have at home, for tire changes and so on (https://www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1620-SHUTTLE-LEVER-PRO)  

This I’m not sure the name of, but it’s useful. Actually, there are two, maybe even three types. It’s kind of sizers, but not. https://www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1807-6%22-DIAGONAL-CUTTING-PLIERS + https://www.topeak.com/global/en/product/1806-6%22-LONG-NOSE-PLIERS
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​These are the tools I use the most. You can always get more, of course, but these I feel are essential. You can make your own little toolbox or get a premade one. 
 
Hope this was helpful!
 
All the best 
Malene