We recommend cycling shorts. The padding will make your ride more comfortable. But they're certainly not essential. Two pairs are plenty; you can rinse them out and in most cases, they synthetic fabrics will dry overnight. (In humid weather, shorts with thick padding may take a little longer.) Likewise, cycling jerseys are designed to improving your biking experience, and they'll do so. Most of them are also made from quick-drying synthetics, so one or two will get you through the week. You'll be fine with t-shirts instead; however. To reduce your luggage, shirts that are 50/50 cotton/polyester, while not trendy, will dry faster if you're sweaty, and if you rinse them out overnight. You can buy special cycling shoes with a stiffer sole, which are slightly more energy-efficient than walking shoes. For the distances we go, we feel these don't generally justify the extra luggage weight. Finally, a helmet is required; sunglasses are highly recommended as protection against both sun and insects (preferably wrap-around style); and padded cycling gloves will make your days more comfortable.