Sea Otter Classic Essentials: Stay Powered for the Ultimate Cycling Event
The Sea Otter Classic is considered the world’s biggest cycling festival, drawing tens of thousands of riders, fans, and families each spring to Monterey, California. Whether you're racing, spectating, or camping for the whole four-day experience, preparation is key. From bikes and hydration gear to sun protection and portable power, knowing what to pack is essential. Here's a checklist of essentials to help you stay powered, comfortable, and ready for everything this monumental event has to offer.
Bikes For the Family
This goes without saying: bring a bike or bikes suitable for the different event(s) you will be competing in. However, you may not have thought to bring the kids' bikes along as well. If the kids have wheels, too, you can take part in the recreation family rides or just encourage the young ones to cruise around the grounds. Who knows, they might compete one day! For young children who may not be ready to ride or are unwilling to walk very far, a wagon is another good option.
Hydration Gear
There’s little shade on the grounds, and even in spring, it can get warm. Plus, you will get extra thirsty from competing, so hydration gear is essential. Pack your reusable water bottles and attach a water bottle holder to your bike for easy access on the go; ensure the kids’ bikes have one too. Alternatively, you can use a hydration backpack or hydration vest.
Sun Protection
Since there isn’t much shade at the event, sun protection is equally essential. Be sure to bring a sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for the whole family. If you're camping nearby, a favorite pastime at this event, you may also want to bring a shade tent.
Clothing
Bring your favorite riding clothing suitable for the weather forecast, whether it's shorts or pants, a long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirt. Having a variety of clothing with you is best, as the weather can vary from one day to the next. Also, don’t forget a raincoat in case it rains, and some additional warm clothing to change into after the races are over and you’re cooling down from your exhilarating ride. Additionally, sturdy but comfortable shoes for the whole family are essential for safe riding and walking.
Portable Power Bank
This is a big, all-day outdoor event, and there will be plenty of photo ops of the event, riders, and your friends and family. So, be sure to bring along some portable power so you can recharge your phone and keep taking more great pics! The EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh) is perfect for any event. It offers Qi2-certified wireless charging but also has wired charging options for extra versatility for devices that are not wireless compatible. The best part is that it’s no bigger than a phone, so you can easily tuck it in a backpack, pocket, bike bag, etc, and you won’t feel any extra weight.
Camping Gear
Riders at the Sea Otter Classic often go camping, and there are plenty of campgrounds nearby. Warning: This is a popular camping event, so reserve your preferred campground early.
Camping gear essentials include tents, sleeping bags, pillows, mats or cots, camping chairs, cooking gear, utensils, camping lights, dish soap and cloths, camping shower (optional but nice!), and your personal items.
Safety Gear
Helmets for the whole family are essential. But don’t forget to carry a first aid kit containing antiseptic ointment, tensor bandages, and triangle bandages in case anyone takes a spill. It's always recommended to have a first aid kit in your backpack at the event, but whenever you travel, be sure to have one in your car as well.
Portable Power Station
Since this event is a multi-day event, in addition to your power bank, you’ll want to bring a portable power station to recharge your power bank and phone. Additionally, if you're camping, you'll likely want a power station to run camping lights at night, play music, and charge your laptop and other devices.
When traveling or camping, portability is key. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus is the perfect travel companion because it’s compact and lightweight enough to pack in a backpack. Yet it’s powerful enough to run multiple devices at once, with various ports including AC, DC, USB-A, and USB-C. It also offers versatile recharging options with AC wall plugs, DC car outlets, USB-C ports, and portable solar panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is It Called Sea Otter Classic?
The Sea Otter Classic was first called the Laguna Seca Challenge in 1991, after the location where it’s held. However, just two years after the event started, it was renamed in honor of the southern sea otter, a native sea-dwelling mammal that lives along the California coastline.
Where is the Sea Otter Classic 2025?
The Sea Otter Classic always takes place at WeatherTech Laguna Seca Raceway at 1021 Monterey Salinas Highway in Salinas, California. Some events are held off-site, but the main festival and most events typically take place at the raceway.
How Many Miles Is the Sea Otter Classic?
The length varies since different races and recreational rides cater to various skill levels and abilities. For instance, the Family Off-Road Tour is a recreational 10.7-mile event, while some popular races include the 60-mile Gravel Race, the 90-mile Carmelo route, and a 26-mile mountain biking route.
Final Thoughts
With thousands of riders and fans converging on Salinas for a weekend of races, rides, and outdoor adventure, the Sea Otter Classic is an unforgettable experience. Be sure to bring the right clothing, hydration gear, and camping supplies, along with reliable safety equipment. Don’t forget to have backup power, as your phone and camera will be working overtime. A compact portable power station like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus is a game-changer for any outdoor enthusiast, especially for campers and multi-device users. Plan ahead, pack smart, and you’ll be ready to enjoy every mile, photo op, and memory along the way!