MEC is open to 7 pm tonight so here is a shopping list to get you started:

MEC ATB Deluxe Patch Kit - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

Filzer Filzer Mini 10 Multitool - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

MEC Tire Lever Set - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

Planet Bike Superflash Turbo LED Rear Light - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

MEC Cosmic One Watt LED Light - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

Spare tube, there are two main sizes 26 inch and 700. There are also two valve types schrader and presata.

Get an appropriate pump and know how it works (some can switch between valve types).

MEC Shell Major Seat Bag - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available (two smaller sizes also, or find an easy to remove one (theft prevention) or just throw it all in you back pack.)

Mirrycle Incredibell Micro Cycling Bell - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available

Cactus Creek Reflexite Ankle Band - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available (don`t need with shoe covers)

Cactus Creek Safety Vest II (Unisex) - Mountain Equipment Co-op. Free Shipping Available (mine is 8 years old and getting ready to be replaced)

In my opinion the lights, tools, pump and bell are must haves. The ankle straps are nice if you wear normal pants and they increase visibility. I also like wear a high vis vest.

I like Top Peak brand pumps, but MEC doesn`t sell them.

So for the basics (plus fenders $30 and shoe covers $29) it comes to $131; I didn`t include reflective vest or seat bag. A little higher than a two zone bus pass, and they all last longer and will make up for it. Especially today.