• Working front and rear lights. Preferably with a dynamo sitting on the tyre, to avoid batteries. In principle we will not need to resort to cycling at night; dynamo's are definitely the cheaper and more reliable option we prefer.
• Reflectors at the front and at the back, optionally amber pedal reflectors.
• A good bell. We also advise a horn, which is often more effective to make car-drivers aware of your presence.
• Make sure that your brakes (and -cables) are solid.
• A helmet (though not compulsory it is recommended).

• As to the gears we advise a minimum selection range of 3 x 5.
• Although in principle we are not in favour of high-tech you might find it worthwhile considering kevlar-coated outer tyres which considerably reduce the risk of punctures. One or two sets of kevlar tyres might still work out ecologically more sound than 3 or 4 other sets that can not be used anymore.
• Water is essential; see if you can get hold of some frame-mounted water bottles. It may also be worth considering a Katadyn water-filter. They're not cheap and take some space, but will prove a worthwhile investment.

• Bicycle and tyre repair kit (for the latter best try to get something more than the average little box with glue and 5 patches).
• 2 tyres (outer tyres as well as inner tubes).
• Spare chain and cassette.
• Sufficient brake blocks.
• Spare set of brake and gear cables.
• Spare spokes, spoke adjuster.

Now... before you start panicking and thinking: oh dear, this is all going to cost me a fortune... Think again. First of all you really don't need a new bike to do this journey. A good second-hand bike may do the job just as well. We suggest to maybe have a word with your local bicyle repair shop or cycling club. Also: in every major town nowadays there are ecological groups; they might be able to help as well. Many things can be bought considerably cheaper as well on the internet, via ebay, or you could even try your local freecycle group: http://www.freecycle.org