Packing Light for the Katy Trail: What Riders Really Bring (and How The Mercantile Makes It Easier)

Olga Marquez
3 days ago
2 min read

If you’re planning a multi-day ride on the Katy Trail, you’re not alone in wondering: How much do I really need to pack? Seasoned riders shared what works—and what’s just extra weight.

Here’s what the Katy Trail community recommends—and how The Mercantile helps you enjoy the ride without compromise.

1. Keep It Light

Most riders agree: less is more. One summed it up perfectly: “A set of clothes for post-ride, water, and snacks. The top setup is my favorite.”

At The Mercantile, that’s easy. Each suite has its own washer, dryer, and drying racks, so you don’t have to rinse gear in the shower or hope it dries by morning. You’ll always roll out the next day fresh.

2. Gear That Matters

Cyclists say the only “extras” worth carrying are tools and items that save your trip:

Tire repair kit, tubes, chain links, multi-tool
Durable tires to prevent flats
Anchor battery for devices

When you stay at The Mercantile, you’ve got WiFi, plenty of outlets, and space to spread out your gear—so everything is charged and ready before you hit the trail again.

3. “Credit Card Style” Touring

Many riders travel “credit card style,” carrying just a few essentials and relying on lodging for the rest. Riders noted: “Every B&B we stayed in had laundry facilities.”

We go further—a bike washing station, and every suite at The Mercantile has private laundry, full kitchens, and room to relax. No waiting on shared machines.

4. Food Made Simple

The biggest packing debate? Snacks and meals. At The Mercantile, you’ve got options that keep you fueled without weighing you down:

Trail Snacks Anytime – Our barn is stocked with grab-and-go fuel. Pay with cash or Venmo on the honor system.
Pre-Order Meals – Add food when you book your suite (at least 7 days in advance) and it’ll be waiting when you arrive.

Cook Your Own – Shop at Loutre Market nearby and prepare your meal in your suite’s full kitchen.

No bonking. No scrambling for restaurants. Just fuel, your way.

5. Rest, Recovery & Dinner in Hermann

The number-one comfort item for riders? A hot shower and real bed. At The Mercantile, you get both, just steps from the Katy Trail.

And if you want to venture out after a long ride, Hermann is only two minutes across the bridge. You can:

Ride into town if you’ve got energy left.
Call Debbie’s “Lyft You Up” ride service straight from The Mercantile.
Hop on the Hermann Trolley for winery stops, breweries, or a hearty dinner.

It’s the perfect way to end a trail day—with German food, Missouri wine, and Hermann’s small-town charm.

Ride Light. Rest Well. Repeat.

The Katy Trail community agrees: pack light, focus on the essentials, and enjoy the journey.

At The Mercantile on the Katy Trail, we’ve built our lodging around those same principles—so you can skip the compromises and savor every mile.

Book your suite today, ride free, and let us take care of the rest.