I'm using less and less cream these days. Am trying Bag Balm right now, because it's cheaper, for rides up to 50-60 miles. Just a touch on a trouble spot. If it need lots I use Chamois Butt'r, just because that was what I was given when I first started riding.

During hot weather I use Polar Bottles. As indicated above, they keep things cold. One that is filled and frozen still has ice in it after 50 miles. Camelbak during cooler weather, because they were given to me. I've never had any problems with leaks, even with "event" bottles, unless I froze and unfroze them a lot (except for the Polar bottles).

My cages are CF to match my bike . . . just a little OCP.