It may sound ridiculous to think that you’re ever going to forget an important item of kit but it’s easier than you think.

Distractions as you rush out of the door at the crack of dawn can easily have your head in one place and your beloved kit bag in another (normally in the garage tucked out of sight).

Take the time to prepare everything that you need the night before. Lay out your kit and pack it in your kit bag in advance, ticking each item off of your list as you go.

Only when it’s ticked off should you sleep well. Don’t make the mistake of thinking ‘I’ll grab my undervest from the airing cupboard before I leave’.

Chances are you’ll only remember when it’s too late. Put everything that you need to take with you close to the front door so there’s absolutely no missing it, and that includes your bike – that’s one thing you really can’t afford to forget!

Likewise with food, stick a note on the fridge reminding you to take your water bottles, bars, gels and essentials.