cycling travel tips

Really Big Bike Ride

Bicycle Touring Tips, Bike Life And Travel Advice From A Decade On The Road

The distilled wisdom of ten years of bike touring life, cycle touring tips and travel advice from hard-earned miles around the globe.

This article documents my bike touring tips from extensive bicycle travels around the world.

Whether you’re a veteran long-distance cyclist or a bicycle touring beginner , this blog post is here to provide you with invaluable bicycle touring tips, bike travel advice, and bicycle touring inspiration from a decade of bicycle trips.

From getting started as a cycle tourer to choosing the right gear. Overcoming fears and avoiding common mistakes, we’ve got you covered.

In particular, the bicycle touring tips we’ll cover include:

• Beginners Guide To Bicycle Touring
• Bike Set Up for Cycle Touring
• Unsolicited Bike Touring Advice
• Reasons To Go On A Bike Tour
• Who Goes Bicycle Touring
• Is Cycle Touring For You?

Bike Trips We’ve Tried and Loved

• Common Mistakes and Bikepacking Fails

What To Pack On A Bike Tour

• How To Travel With A Bicycle
• How To Budget For A Bike Trip
• Overcoming Fears (Just GO!)
• Inspirational Bicycle Touring Tips (Final Checklist)

But first things first – let’s dive into how to get started as a beginner in cycle touring.

Bicycle Touring Tips And Bike Touring Advice

Getting into cycle touring as a beginner.

Getting into cycle touring as a beginner can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. But fear not, because, with the right mindset and a few key tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a seasoned cycle tourer in no time!

Start by choosing the right bike for your adventure. Look for a sturdy, reliable bicycle that is comfortable to ride for long distances. Consider factors such as frame material, tire size, and gear options based on the terrain you plan to conquer.

I chose the Dawes Galaxy because we got a great deal from Spa Cycles . I chose steel because it’s tough yet flexible and easy to repair anywhere in the world with a basic fabricator. Also for our charity bike ride around Europe, we knew it would be the best type of touring bike.

Get fit on the bike

Next, it’s important to gradually build up your fitness level before tackling longer tours. Start with shorter rides close to home and gradually increase the distance over time.

This will not only help prepare your body but also allow you to test out different equipment and make any necessary adjustments along the way.

I commuted for years before I got near a heavy touring bike . I tested kit and found stuff I liked and got used to long hours in the saddle.

Remember, cycle touring is all about embracing the journey rather than reaching a specific destination. So take it slow, enjoy the scenery around you, and most importantly – have fun!

Our Bicycle Touring Tips For Bike Set Up

When it comes to bike touring, having the right set-up is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Over our decade on the road, we’ve fine-tuned our bike set-up to meet our specific needs.

Our bikes are equipped with sturdy Tubus racks that allow us to carry all of our gear without compromising stability. We also use Ortlieb pannier bags that attach securely to these racks.

Front and rear panniers provide ample storage space for clothing, camping equipment, and other essentials.

Additionally, we have invested in comfortable bicycle touring saddles and double-wrapped bar tape to ensure long hours on the saddle don’t leave us sore or fatigued.

A well-thought-out bike set-up can make all the difference in your cycling adventure. So take the time to find what works best for you and your needs before hitting the open road!

About Cycle Tourers And Unsolicited Bike Touring Advice

Cycle tourers come in all shapes and sizes, from solo adventurers seeking solitude to couples sharing the journey. Some are experienced riders with years of bicycle touring under their belt. While others are newbies looking for a thrilling escape.

What unites them is their love for the open road and the freedom that comes with pedalling through picturesque landscapes.

You’ll meet bicycle tourists from all over the world. Each one with a unique story and reason for embarking on a two-wheeled adventure.

They share a common passion for exploration and a desire to experience life at a slower pace.

Bicycle Touring Tips From Around The World

Whether you’re cycling across continents or exploring your own backyard, being part of this vibrant community will open your eyes to new cultures, forge lifelong friendships, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Every bicycle touring tip you get is from a personal experience. In that context, my unsolicited bicycle touring advice is to make up your own mind.

Treat bike travel tips and cycle touring advice as a kind of recipe. Enjoy the useful, disregard the rest.

Reasons To Go On A Bike Tour?

Cycle touring offers a unique and exhilarating way to explore the world. Bicycle travel enables you to immerse yourself in nature, connect with local cultures, and experience a sense of freedom that is hard to find elsewhere.

One of the reasons why people choose to go on bike tours is for the feeling of adventure.

There’s something incredibly thrilling about embarking on a journey across vast landscapes, relying solely on your physical strength and determination. Plus, being able to cover long distances at your own pace allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

Long-distance Bicycle Touring Is Fun

Another reason why bike touring is so appealing is its simplicity. With just your bicycle and some basic gear, you have everything you need for self-sufficient travel.

The minimalist ideals of bikepacking and bicycle touring make it easy to plan and organize your trip. Enabling you to focus on what really matters – enjoying the ride and connecting with both nature and yourself.

So if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure then consider going on a bike tour. It’s an experience like no other!

Who Goes Cycle Touring?

Cycle touring is not limited to a specific group of people. It attracts adventurers of all ages and backgrounds, from solo travellers seeking self-discovery to couples looking for a unique bonding experience.

Young backpackers, retirees in search of new horizons, and even families with children are among those who embark on bike tours.

The beauty of cycle touring lies in its versatility. It appeals to both experienced cyclists and beginners who want to try something new.

With the right mindset and preparation, anyone can enjoy the freedom that comes with exploring the world on two wheels.

So whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply someone yearning for a slower pace of life, cycle touring welcomes you with open arms.

Is Cycle Touring for You?

Cycle touring is not for everyone, but it can be an incredible adventure for those who are up for the challenge. It requires a certain level of physical fitness and mental resilience. You’ll be spending long hours on the bike, pushing yourself to new limits.

If you enjoy being outdoors, exploring new places at your own pace, and immersing yourself in different cultures, then cycle touring might just be your thing.

Bikepacking and cycle touring offer a unique perspective of the world that you simply can’t get from any other mode of travel.

However, it’s important to consider factors like weather conditions, terrain difficulty, and personal comfort levels before embarking on a bike tour.

So if you’re willing to embrace uncertainty and step out of your comfort zone, then cycle touring could very well be the adventure of a lifetime!

Over the years, we have embarked on countless bike trips that have taken us to breathtaking destinations around the world.

From cycling through the rugged landscapes of the Pamir Mountains to pedalling along picturesque coastal roads in Morocco , each journey has left an indelible mark on our souls.

One particular trip that stands out is our adventure through the stunning countryside of Vietnam . The vibrant colours, bustling markets, and friendly locals made this a truly unforgettable experience.

Another favourite was our tour through Wainwright’s Coast to Coast , where we were captivated by rolling hills, ancient valleys, and mist-covered moors.

Why We Travel By Bike

These bike trips not only enabled us to explore new places but also provided a unique perspective on each destination. They allowed us to immerse ourselves in local culture and interact with people from all walks of life.

There’s nothing quite like feeling the wind against your face as you pedal along remote mountain trails or cycle past iconic landmarks

In short, these bike trips have brought us immense joy and fulfilment. They have taught us valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and embracing new experiences. It’s why we travel by bike !

If there’s one thing we can say for certain it’s this: if you’re looking for a thrilling way to discover the world while staying active and connected with nature – bicycle touring is worth considering!

Common Mistakes Bike Travelers Make

One common mistake that many bike travellers make is overpacking. It’s easy to get carried away and want to bring everything you think you might need. A heavy load can quickly become a burden on long rides.

I had to give away a laptop, a heavy-duty bike lock and 15 pairs of socks on my solo Hippe Trail by Bike trip. Instead, focus on packing the essentials and being prepared for different weather conditions.

Another mistake is not doing enough research about the route and terrain ahead of time. It’s important to have an idea of what kind of roads or trails you’ll be riding on.

A general understanding of any political unrest, armed conflicts, or national uprisings can inform your route planning. This will help you plan accordingly and avoid any unnecessary surprises during your journey.

By avoiding these common bikepacking mistakes , bike travellers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on their tours.

So remember to pack light and do your homework before hitting the road!

What to pack on a bike tour can be a daunting task. This cycle touring and bikepacking kit list can ensure that you have everything you need without carrying unnecessary weight.

First and foremost, it’s important to have the essentials: spare inner tubes, a pump or CO2 inflator, tire levers, and basic tools for any potential repairs along the way.

Additionally, packing lightweight camping gear such as the best tent in the world or bivvy bag, a super lightweight sleeping bag , and cooking equipment is crucial for overnight stays.

Don’t forget to bring weather-appropriate clothing including rain gear and layers for varying temperatures.

Remember to prioritize items based on necessity rather than convenience to keep your load light and manageable throughout your journey.

What To Wear On A Bike Tour?

Cycle touring clothing.

When it comes to what to wear on a bike tour, comfort and functionality are key. Opt for moisture-wicking clothing that will keep you dry during long rides. Lightweight and breathable materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics are ideal for regulating body temperature.

Layering is important, as weather conditions can change throughout the day. Start with a base layer that wicks away sweat, add a mid-layer for insulation, and top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer shell. Don’t forget to protect your extremities – invest in padded cycling shorts, gloves for grip and protection, sunglasses for eye protection from debris or UV rays, and sturdy cycling shoes with cleats for efficient pedalling.

Remember: pack light and practical!

Camping & Cooking Kit List

When embarking on a bike tour, having the right camping and cooking gear is essential. We’ve learned this through years of experience on the road.

Do you really need a stove and cookset?

While for ultra-long bicycle expeditions, a stove and camping cookset make for a useful companion, it may not be essential.

I barely used a stove on my solo multi-month bike trip. In Southeast Asia and India, it’s easy and preferable to eat at the side of the road. Dry foods, salami, nuts, seeds, fruits and jelly sweets are handy to carry as snacks.

However, in Central Asia, I used the stove at least daily to prepare an evening meal. Ingredients were hard to find but given the expansive distances from settlements, it was a bonus to have a hotel meal on the fly.

How To Fly With A Bicycle If You Have To

Ideally, you’ll leave from our front door fully loaded and ready to go. Cycle to a ferry port and you’ll access the next available landmass.

Alternatively, there are various options available. If you have to fly, a bike bag or box for air travel is handy. A cardboard box is best to protect your bike in transit. The see-through bags are liable to damage the bike in my experience. A new box can be found on the return leg.

Make sure all loose parts are removed or tightly secured. Remove the pedals, tuck the drop bars under the frame and remove the front wheel. Store the wheel next to the frame with a cable tie. Leave the bike in the lowest cog on the cassette. This leaves the derailleur compact for travel.

Don’t forget to pack essential tools and spare parts for any potential repairs that may arise during your journey.

Once abroad, it’s possible to put your bike on all kinds of transport. Huge trains in India, speedboats in Europe, and big trucks in Tajikistan.

How To Budget For A Bicycle Tour

When it comes to planning a bicycle tour, budgeting is an essential aspect that can greatly impact your experience. So how do you go about budgeting for a bike tour? Here are a couple of veteran bicycle touring tips to help you get started.

Consider your daily expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation. Research the average costs in the countries or regions you’ll be visiting and factor them into your budget. Don’t forget to account for any visa fees or travel insurance costs as well.

In Asia, I travelled on $10 a day which at the time was about £6. Most of that was spent on food.

Think about one-time expenses like purchasing or renting gear and equipment. Determine what items are necessary for your trip and research their prices beforehand. It’s also worth considering any potential repairs or maintenance that may come up during the tour.

By carefully planning and estimating your expenses ahead of time, you can ensure that you have enough funds to fully enjoy your bicycle tour without breaking the bank.

Remember, every cyclist has different priorities when it comes to spending money on their journey – so find what works best for you!

Overcoming Fears: The Ultimate Bike Touring Advice

When embarking on a bicycle tour, it’s natural to have fears and doubts. Will I be able to handle the physical demands? What if something goes wrong?

But here’s the thing – fear is just an illusion that can hold you back from incredible experiences. Pushing through those fears is where growth happens.

Fear is just an illusion

One of our last thoughts before setting off on each tour is always gratitude for the opportunity to explore new places by bike.

It’s a reminder to savour every moment, even when faced with challenges or setbacks along the way. Embrace the unknown, push past your comfort zone, and trust in your abilities – you’ll come out stronger on the other side!

Inspirational Bicycle Touring Tips Before You Go

Bicycle touring is not just a hobby or a vacation; for some, it’s a way of life. It opens up new possibilities, pushes boundaries, and connects you with the world in ways that other forms of travel simply cannot match.

As we come to the end of this article, I hope that my experiences and bicycle touring tips have sparked your curiosity and ignited your wanderlust.

Here are some final words of bike travel advice to inspire and guide you on your cycle-touring adventures.

Bicycle Touring Tips Checklist

• Embrace the journey: The true beauty of bicycle touring lies in the unexpected moments, chance encounters, and serendipitous detours along the way. Be open to new experiences and embrace them wholeheartedly.
• Take it slow: Remember that cycle touring is not a race against time. It’s an opportunity to savour each moment at your own pace. Enjoy leisurely rides through picturesque landscapes, stop for coffee breaks in quaint villages, and take time to immerse yourself in local cultures.
• Connect with fellow cyclists: The cycling community is vast and supportive around the world. Whether online through cycle touring resources or on the road, reach out to other cyclists. Bike travel advice, camaraderie, or even potential travel companionship is possible.
• Stay flexible: Inevitably things won’t always go according to plan – weather conditions may change abruptly or unforeseen circumstances may arise – but adaptability is key when bicycle touring. Embrace these challenges as part of the adventure!
• Keep learning: There will always be more skills to acquire and knowledge to gain when it comes to bike travel – from basic maintenance skills like fixing a flat tire to navigating unfamiliar territories using maps or GPS devices .
• Take care of yourself: Remember self-care during long days in the saddle – stay hydrated, eat well-balanced meals, and give your body enough rest to prevent burnout and injury. Listen to your body and know when it’s time to take a break.
• Leave no trace: As responsible travellers, it’s important to leave the places we visit as we find them, if not better. Dispose of waste properly and respect local customs and cultures.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from our decade on the road, it’s that bicycle touring is as much about mindset as it is about physical stamina.

Cycle with a smile and the world will feed you noodles, get you drunk on xeo and offer you a bed for the night.

Magick happens on the road. Embrace it with an open heart and you’ll be grand.

How to Travel by Bicycle: a Beginners’ Guide to Start Bike Touring

Last Updated on 11 July 2024 by Cycloscope

How to plan your first bicycle trip on a budget. Find a touring bicycle, gear up, plan your route, and start traveling the world by bicycle.

We are often asked what are the first steps to get started in bicycle touring, and that’s why we wrote this series of bicycle touring guides.

So, how to travel by bike?

Well, there’s a short answer to that: find a bike, pick a destination (or better, just a direction), pack some stuff , and go cycling .

Traveling by bicycle really is for (almost) everybody, no matter your age, physical conditions, weight, training , cycling experience, mechanical skills, or budget. Many bicycle tourists travel with kids and even with their pets.

When we started bicycle touring and bikepacking we were tobacco smokers, alcohol drinkers, out of shape, ignorant about mechanics, and almost broke.

And guess what, we still are almost the same, just less broke, since bike touring surprisingly made us find many working opportunities. There’s only one thing you really need to start bicycle touring, and that is time.

We’re not going to tell you to leave your job unless you really want to start a different life, bike travel may be done in any time frame: you have only a week off during the year. Then plan a bikepacking loop around your backyard.

We met people traveling with less than what we rely on, bike touring is doable with any budget, it just requires a strong sense of adventure and the will to adapt to some discomfort.

Guide: how to find a suitable touring bike for your first bike trip

Unless you plan to cycle really challenging roads and pack a lot of gear, any bike will do. Literally, we saw people touring long distances with granny bikes and even cheap folding ones.

However, the better the bike, the greater the comfort, and the higher the enjoyment. You can check our lists of:

• 18 Great Touring Bikes Under 2,000$
• 21 Best Touring Bicycles Under 1,000$
• 10 Great Woman-Specific Touring Bikes
• Best 2024 Gravel Bikes Under 1500 USD

If you really don’t have a budget to invest in a touring bike, you can use what you have

How to do touring with a road or gravel bike

Do you have a road bike ? Surprise, you can tour with it. The main problem with traveling on race bikes is that they don’t handle the load well, plus the usually narrow tires won’t be good on dirt roads.

What you can do:

• stick to the pavement,
• pack light using a bike-packing setup ,
• or add a bicycle trailer.

Some good bike trailers are Bob Yak, Topeak Journey , and the one of my choice, the  Extrawheel Trailer .

Gravel bikes can also be suitable for touring, there are more and more models out there that cater to the needs of bikepackers. Check out our in-depth article about Gravel Bike Touring – The Why and the 6 Best Gravel Bikes for Touring and Bikepacking .

Check also this > What is Bikepacking? Everything you need to know

Bicycle Touring with an MTB

Old mountain bikes from the nineties are perfect for bike touring, they usually have strong steel frames and can handle a bit of load. Try to avoid suspension forks, and even more full suspension systems: they break easily if they are cheap ones.

Modern hardtail and even full-suspension MTBs can be used for special types of touring. Check our guide about:

> Mountain Bike Touring – The MTB Set-Ups for Bikepacking & Cycle Camping

Travel On a Scrapyard Bike

Don’t you have a bike? Go to second-hand shops, or even to the scrapyard indeed. You’ll probably find a decent frame for a few bucks, or even for free. In the end, that’s how I started .

Don’t forget though, to be sure the bike is safe enough, riding safely should come first on the list of your priorities, an accident can always happen and put an abrupt stop to your tour, and it’s, of course, more likely to happen if your ride isn’t safe.

And by the way, having a cycling insurance policy is always a good idea, no matter what rig you are riding.

Learn How to Turn a Piece of Junk into a Touring Bike

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How to pick a destination for your first bike trip

Where to go mostly depends on the time you have, if you don’t have much of this precious resource, why not start local? Get out of your house and start cycling. If you have a bit more time (I would say at least 2 weeks), you can think of taking a train or a flight and cycle the country of your dreams. Learn here a few useful tips on how to fly with your bike .

Great destinations for bicycle touring first-timers are, for example,  Japan and South Korea , both super safe, camping-friendly, and beautiful, and the great thing is that you can travel to these expensive countries with a very low budget if you travel by bicycle.

Check out our hints on how to budget travel in South Korea  and how to travel in Japan for less than 10$ per day . Another very easy destination is Holland, with its incredible network of cycling paths – that’s where I developed my passion for cycle touring – or the beautiful Serbian part of the Danube River. 

Anyway, don’t be afraid to go cycling also on a more difficult destination, it might be challenging at first but you’ll make it, and the reward will be enormous. Check Kyrgyzstan for example, if you love mountains it won’t disappoint you, you could do a complete tour around the Issyk Kul in less than 10 relaxed days.

For more inspiration have also a look at the bicycle touring adventures of our friends from My Five Acres .

Plan your route

When we first started our long-haul bicycle trip, we carefully planned all the stages of the first ten months, downloaded the GPX tracks, and used them on our GPS device .

Let me say straight that this was the biggest mistake we ever made . We tried to stick to this schedule and missed a lot, cycled for too long on some days, and stopped early on good days when we could have gone further, ignoring suggestions from local people.

While, in our humble opinion, planning too much is useless and even counterproductive on long-term tours (more than one month), it becomes very important when your time is limited. If you have a return plane from a city on a certain date you must be there then.

So here is some advice on how to plan a bicycle tour:

• Plan short of at least one day for each week: this means if you are planning a 15-day trip, plan it like you’ll be doing it in 13 (including the rest days). This way you’ll have the chance to take advantage of whatever opportunity may arise that you didn’t plan before.
• Don’t plan to cycle more than 70/80 km per day, make it 50 (or even less) if there are major climbs involved: of course, this figure may really change depending on the rider, but since you’re reading this, we assume you are pretty new to bike touring. Although you may be a well-trained weekend cyclist, cycling with a load is a totally different cup of tea. Moreover, you’ll be cycling many days in a row, so take it easy and enjoy some relaxation. Most long-term bicycle travelers cycle on this daily average mileage .
• Stick to secondary roads: it’s no fun to cycle on a busy highway just because it’s the shortest way. Bicycle touring is not about the destination, it is about riding in beautiful locations.

How to Extend a Social Budaya (Social Visit) Visa, Everywhere in Indonesia

If you want the help of a little technology to plan your route check this list of the best apps for offline bicycle touring navigation .

Check some more: Advice about bicycle touring on this semi-serious list of 30 rules

As for the bike, having good gear is, of course, nice but not necessary at all . If you’re on a budget just use what you have, a cheap tent, and the sleeping bag might be a little heavier, but who cares? 

If you can’t afford to buy those cool Ortlieb panniers, you can make a pair of waterproof bags out of plastic buckets .

Here below are all the articles from our series about bicycle touring gear essentials (and not essentials).

• Essential Camping Gear for Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking
• Tools and Spare Parts to Bring on a Bicycle Expedition
• Electronic Equipment to Bring on a Long-Haul Bicycle Expedition
• Bicycle Touring Clothing Essentials

Have also a look at

• The Best Online Stores for Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking

Find Out Your Bike Touring Budget

Bicycle touring is seriously the cheapest way to travel , maybe only walking can be compared. We always traveled with 10$ a day each, sometimes we spent a bit more, sometimes a bit less, this makes for 3600$ per year, not an impossible amount to save!

The crazy thing is that you may end up spending less in more expensive countries, at least that was true for us.

If you can’t afford the sleep in a hotel in Japan you simply won’t do it, while is very hard to resist those beachfront bungalows in the Philippines , they look so cheap at 5 to 10$ per night but this will affect your wallet in the long run.

The same is true for restaurants, some places are so dirt cheap that you’ll end up eating in restaurants every day, and that’s not cheap anymore.

So, what are you waiting for? The big, beautiful, crazy world is out there waiting for you to cycle it! 

Learn More > How Much Does it Cost to Travel the World by Bicycle

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10 top tips to tackle your first bike tour in 2022

Feb 3, 2022 • 6 min read

Taking the long route is always the best way to see a destination; mountain biking through British Columbia © GibsonPictures / Getty

Long-distance cycle tours are a cheap, challenging and entirely unforgettable way to see the world. But are you willing to swap planes and hotel beds for a tent, two wheels and the open road?

Here are 10 top bike tour hacks to get you off the couch and onto the saddle.

Save the date and start planning

Deciding to go really is the hardest part. Setting the date (and having a rough idea of duration) helps concrete your trip, giving you a deadline to work towards. First-timers should head off during the warmer months and – unless you’re keen to channel Sir Ranulph Fiennes – pick an easy route for the first week or two. Training before your tour helps, but it’s not imperative – you’ll get fit on the road.

For tried-and-tested planning, tips check out bike touring blogs and websites such as Travelling Two and Facebook’s Bicycle Touring & Bikepacking group.

On Québec’s Route Verte, not knowing what I was getting myself into was the best part

Buy the right kit

Invest in the essentials: a good free-standing tent, a decent touring bike, waterproof panniers (bike bags) and a cooking stove. Opt for a sturdy, steel-framed touring bike with steel front and rear racks to hold your panniers. Your bags should be hard-wearing as they'll carry everything you need such as the tent, stove, sleeping bag and mat, electronics and clothing.

Every gram and inch counts. Opt for lightweight gear and use dry bags to compress your clothes. Resist the urge to overdo it and blow your budget on gear that might not last; real kit gems, such as baby wipes, mosquito spray and chlorine tablets, often cost virtually nothing.

Plan the right route for you

Wherever you’re planning to cycle, consider ditching main roads as they’re busy and often uninspiring. Countries such as the Netherlands are renowned for their flat and bike-friendly trails, while thrill-seekers tend to make a beeline for the likes of Tajikistan and Patagonia .

Tap into regional resources and infrastructure such as Europe’s Eurovelo bike routes which offer excellent off-road rides. The USA’s Adventure Cycling Association and England’s Sustrans network print terrific maps with alternative routes and amenity lists.

The best cycling tours in India

Avoid unnecessary detours

Once upon a time, a wrinkled, dog-eared, hard-copy map was the ultimate bike tour companion. Now, it’s a reliable GPS or navigation app. Opt for a durable and multi-use GPS product designed with adventurers in mind.

Smartphones are also a fantastic option if you’re likely to have regular access to electricity and the internet. You can download maps that don’t just show you the best roads, but the best off-the-beaten-track routes for cycle touring. The Maps.me app is detailed, easy to use and now shows the route elevation on the bike option in most countries.

Create a budget and start saving

Bike tours can cost very little; if you’re willing to live on rice and porridge and wild-camp at every opportunity, then an incredibly lean budget is achievable.

Visas, hotel stays and restaurant visits add up, but if you’re hoping for a happy medium (a tight food budget and plenty of low-cost or free accommodation with occasional splurges) then you could keep daily costs quite low, depending on the country. However, it's important to factor in travel insurance and emergency money for bike repairs and kit replacements.

These are the world's best cities for cycling

Set your own personal goals

World cyclist Jonathan Kambsgaro-Bennett says the question he gets asked most is how far he pedals in a day. His answer? "It depends on the hills, the wind, the road and about a million other things… Especially the wind."

Setting daily distances can be tough but having a rough idea of what you want (and are able) to achieve will help you plot an itinerary. Many bike tourers average between 60km and 80km per day, depending on conditions, while those just starting out may aim for much less. Besides the weather and quality of the roads, your personal goals should also influence the decisions you make along the way – and will often push you to keep going.

Become a camping pro

Pitching a tent in the wild after a long day in the saddle can be stressful. Fortunately, fatigue often overrides fear – and the more you do it, the easier it gets. Some places welcome wild camping as long as you're out of sight (Scotland, Iran, Japan) while others forbid it which makes things much tougher (Switzerland, Australia and the USA) – it’s worth being aware of the laws wherever you choose to cycle.

While a nice, secluded, flat piece of turf near a river is the goal, anything can make a fine camp spot and the key to overriding those initial fears is to keep off private property, or to simply ask the landowners for permission to camp. Locals are often keen to help – and if you have their blessings, you’ll sleep like a baby. Check out world cyclist Tom Allen’s top tips on how to wild camp .

Become familiar with cyclist resources

If you like Couchsurfing , then Warmshowers – a tight-knit international community of cycling enthusiasts catering to pedal-powered travelers – will be your best friend on tour.

While it’s tough to find hosts in Central Asia, Africa and parts of the Middle East, Warmshowers has a huge network throughout Europe , Iran and the Americas. Many hosts will do more than give you a place to rest your head after a day on the bike, often feeding you dinner and sharing their own tales of adventure.

Why cycling is the future of urban transportation around the world

Learn how to cook on a camp stove

Unless you’re happy with a two-minute noodle diet, spend some time getting to know your stove. Most small camp stoves have just one setting and few bike travelers carry more than two small pots, but with a little creativity you can whip up a delicious meal after a tough day of pedaling.

Pasta, rice and porridge are great value staples. To make your meals more exciting, throw some chili, garlic salt, pepper and curry powder in light, plastic containers. Peanut butter turns even the worst meals into a satay delight and soup mixes make for lightweight yet delicious sauce bases.

Overcome your fears

"What if someone steals your bike? What if you get attacked while camping? What if you get hit by a truck?" These aren’t just the questions people might ask you – they’re the ones you’ll ask yourself repeatedly before setting off.

To deal with those recurring fears, expect the best but prepare for the worst. Commit to reading the fine print and get insurance with a comprehensive cover that will replace your kit if it’s stolen. Keep a personal alarm or bear spray in an accessible place and consider carrying a SPOT tracker; these devices (when turned on) emit your location to allow friends and family to keep an eye on where you are. Stay vigilant and you’ll be fine. The majority of cyclists report overwhelming generosity and kindness from the road.

You might also like: In Iceland’s remote Westfjords region, a new bicycle route takes shape A mountain biker shares how Nordic Europe combines the best of food and biking The 10 best long-distance bike rides around the world

This article was first published Feb 20, 2017 and updated Feb 3, 2022.

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Jun 25, 2020 • 6 min read

Lauren spent 3 months cycling from London to Istanbul. Here are the things she learned about Europe, and herself, on the way.

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Bicycle Touring Guide for Beginners: Everything You Need To Know

The idea of planning and preparing for your first-ever bike tour might seem a little intimidating at first. I completely understand — I was very intimidated when I left for my first-ever tour ( from London to Istanbul ), but I quickly discovered that I needn’t have been worried!

In this bicycle touring guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know in order to plan and prepare for your first cycle tour, including how to choose a bike for touring, what gear you’ll need, how to budget, ideas on where to go, tips for life on the road and more.

I’ll also be responding to worries that novice cycle tourists often have, such as whether you need to be really fit and whether you need to know a lot about bikes in order to tour.

Let’s dive in!

What is bicycle touring?

Simply put, bicycle touring is travelling by bicycle.

It’s a type of adventure travel that combines cycling with backpacking. You’ll cycle for days, weeks, months or even years, with your luggage attached to your bike. In doing so, you are self-sufficient and your journey is self-powered.

Cycle touring vs bikepacking

The phrases “cycle touring” and “bikepacking” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to travelling by bike, but it’s the terrain and type of bike used that sets them apart.

Cycle touring is typically done on-road or along bike paths, using a touring, hybrid, or even a road bike.

Bikepacking refers to off-road adventures along dirt roads and/or in the mountains, on a bike with fatter tyres, such as a mountain or fat bike.

For the purpose of this guide, we will focus on cycle touring , but a lot of the information here will also be useful to those who are interested in bikepacking.

Why should you go on a bicycle tour?

There are few better ways to explore the world than by bicycle.

Most tourists will travel from hotspot to hotspot, but on a bike, you’ll get to uncover things that most people miss. You’ll really connect with your surroundings and notice the fine details of the region you’re travelling through.

In a car, you see so much yet experience so little. There’s no real connection to what’s just outside of your window; you’ll see but a timelapse of the world around you. On foot, you soak up each individual step, but with this comes confinement and small distances covered each day.

That’s where bicycle touring, for me, wins every time. On a bicycle, you’ll cover substantial distances, yet you’ll still be slow enough to really see and experience everything around you. If it’s raining, you’re soaked. If it’s hot, you’re sweating. There’s no AC to turn on, no roof over your head. Dirt, dust and insects will stick to your sweat-clad skin. You must grind up the hills, but then you’ll have the joy of coasting down them.

Not only this but bicycle touring is a cheap way and eco-friendly way to travel!

READ MORE: 10 Reasons Why You Should Try Bicycle Touring

How to choose a bike for touring

Touring bikes are specifically designed for long-distance, weight-bearing cycling. They have a longer wheelbase than regular bikes, providing more stability and comfort while carrying a load, and have several attachment points for racks and bags.

When choosing a touring bike , think about the demands of your ride:

Duration : For short tours — perhaps a week or two — just about any bike will do. If you’re planning a longer trip, there’s a stronger case for using a higher quality bike that won’t fail under strain.

Location : If you are touring in a remote location, where access to bike repair is infrequent, it’s a good idea to invest in a quality bike that is unlikely to break down and leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Terrain : If you’ll be sticking mostly to roads, you can really use any bike, although skinnier tyres will enable you to go faster. If you’re planning on going off-road and riding over dirt paths and mountainous terrain, you’ll want a bike with wide tyres and good suspension.

That being said, you don’t need  a touring bike. A nice bike is just that: nice but not essential. People have toured great distances on bikes that didn’t look up to the job. I cycled across Europe using a second-hand bike from a charity shop, and Thomas Stevens cycled the world on a penny-farthing in the 1800s!

Your budget needn’t hold you back . You really don’t need to splurge on an expensive new bike, unless you want to. As long as your bike has fitment points so you can attach a rack and panniers, decent gears and tyres and a comfortable saddle, there’s no reason why you can’t tour on it. Just keep in mind that long rides over challenging terrain may be a strain on your cheaper, older bike.

If you’re planning on a long tour over challenging terrain and want to invest in something designed for such an expedition, take a look at the following touring bikes:

• Fuji Touring
• Cube Touring Bike
• Trek 520 Disc
• Kona Sutra Adventure Road Bike
• Ridgeback Panorama

What gear and equipment do you need for a bicycle tour?

At its heart, bike touring is all about minimalism and simplicity. The mantra of “it’s better to have it and not need it” is not the way to go. You need to be selective with what you bring as you’re the one who must grind the weight of your luggage up those hills!

Here is what I recommend you bring with you on your bicycle tour:

• Panniers — I love these ones
• Inner tubes
• Tail lights
• 2 cycling shorts
• Non-cycling pants
• Long sleeve layer
• Jumper/fleece
• Waterproof jacket
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 5 pairs of socks

Camping gear

• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat — I love this  Forclaz mat  
• Travel pillow
• Gas cylinder
• Portable stove
• Plates/cutlery
• Matches/lighter

Miscellaneous

• Wallet and money
• Refillable water bottle
• Soap & shampoo
• Toothbrush & paste
• Hairbrush & hair ties
• Travel towel
• Battery packs

(A side note: you don’t need all of this stuff. You can pick and choose what would provide comfort and value to you during your tour.)

READ MORE: A Complete Bike Touring Gear Guide and Kit List

How do I carry all my gear?

Panniers are a type of bag that sit on your bike and store all your stuff. They’ll mount over your wheels, either at the front, back, or both. You’ll need to fit racks onto your bike, and then clip the panniers onto these racks.

Pannier racks

Choosing a pannier rack for your bicycle is about as exciting as watching paint dry, but strong racks are  essential  when preparing for a long-distance bicycle tour. You’ll be clipping your panniers and bike bags onto them so they need to be hard-wearing and capable of carrying your luggage.

Every bike is different and there are many variables to consider when choosing your racks:

• Does your bike have disc brakes or rim brakes? Your rack might need extra clearance if you have disc brakes.
• Does your bike have mounts to attach the back rack to, or will you need to use clips?
• Does the rack give you plenty of heel clearance? Essential if you actually want to be able to pedal when the panniers are attached!

You’ll also want to consider the material your racks are made from:

• Aluminium: very lightweight but less durable.
• Chromoly: heavier than aluminium but durable and strong.
• Steel: heavier than chromoly but very durable and can be welded if they break.
• Titanium: lightweight but expensive.

Make sure to check your wheel size and dimensions to get the one best suited to your bike. If you don’t know much about bikes, I’d advise getting racks fitted at your local bicycle shop.

Panniers and bike bags

Panniers/bike bags are where you’re going to store all your gear, and they’ll clip onto your pannier racks.

Ortlieb  is one of the most popular panniers and bike bag brands as their bags are known for being waterproof and durable. That being said, Ortlieb isn’t the cheapest at £100+. You certainly don’t need to fork out for Ortliebs, unless you want a really great pair that’ll last you a long time, but it’s worth getting good quality, waterproof panniers that will last.

If you’ll be camping on your tour, you’ll likely need front panniers as well as back panniers, as camping and cooking gear can take up a lot of space. If you’ll be staying in hotels or similar on your tour, you may well be able to get away with back panniers only. It all depends on how much gear you’ll be carrying!

I use these  back panniers from BTWIN  and they serve me very well. They’re waterproof, durable and have plenty of space.

I had some cheap front panniers which, quite frankly, sucked, and they broke quickly. This is why I advise investing in some good quality panniers.

Some great options for panniers include:

• Ortlieb 20L Back Roller Classic
• Arkel 22.5L Panniers
• Thule Shield 25L Pannier Pair

READ MORE: The 8 Best Panniers For Touring in 2022

How to pick a destination for your first bike trip

It seems that many people think that travelling by bike needs to be adventurous. Sure, there are particularly intrepid individuals out there who are enthused about navigating the steppes of Central Asia or sweating their way across the Sahara desert, but these are far and few between.

Bicycle touring can be thought of as a “cycling holiday” — you’re doing this to enjoy yourself, after all!

When deciding where to go for a bicycle tour, you’ll want to consider the following:

Time: Most of us can only take a short while out of work at a time, or have commitments that can’t be abandoned for too long. If you don’t have much time, why not start local? Just get out of your house and start cycling — a weekend tour can still be a great adventure! If you have two weeks or longer, you have a lot more choice on where to go.

Season: The weather can have a massive impact on how much you enjoy your tour. Choosing to cycle across Asia during the monsoon season or northern Canada during winter could be miserable.

Style: Does your chosen destination fit your cycling and travel style? Think about what you want to get out of your cycle tour, what sights you want to see and how comfortable you are cycling in remote places.

Experience: When planning a bike tour, you should use your previous riding experience to figure out how much distance and how much incline you’re capable of covering. For example, if you’re not in the best shape, touring the steep inclines of the Pyrenees might not be such a fun experience for you.

Ideas on where to go bicycle touring

Here are some great destination ideas for first-time bike tourers:

Western Europe

Many first-time bike tourers select Europe as their first adventure. It’s a great continent to cycle in: bike paths are decent, amenities are great and distances between cities and towns are much smaller than in other parts of the world. Not only this, but Europe is diverse with beautiful scenery and fascinating cultures, and is home to a great community of cycle tourists.

There’s a huge network of dedicated bicycle routes that span across Europe, known as the EuroVelo routes. These are perfect for first-time cycle tourists, as they make planning easy. Just pick a route and follow it!

I would say that Western Europe is more beginner-friendly than Eastern Europe, as (typically) bike paths are better maintained, infrastructure is more set up for cyclists and campsites are everywhere.

I personally cycled EuroVelo 6 one summer and had a fantastic time pedalling along rivers and visiting capital cities. If you’d like to cycle along the Mediterranean coast, taking in Spanish beaches, the canals of Venice, beautiful Croatia and more, have a look into EuroVelo 8.

If you’ve got a week for your cycle tour, Passau to Vienna is a great choice.

If you have 2-3 weeks, I would recommend following the Loire River in France (the Loire a Velo ), or the EuroVelo 15 , which follows the Rhine River through Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.

South Korea

The South Korean government has invested massively in cycling, meaning the country now has thousands of kilometres of dedicated bicycle paths. The most famous of their bike routes is the 4 Rivers Path , a 633 km-long path connecting the major Korean cities of Seoul and Busan. It’s an ideal option for a beginner’s bicycle tour.

If you want to see more of the country, you could even make up your own route, as South Korea has an excellent road network with many secondary roads that usually see little traffic.

Camping culture in South Korea is huge and there are lots of free campsites scattered everywhere, usually in scenic areas, such as by the beach or a lake. South Korea is also one of the safest countries in Asia, making it ideal for solo cyclists who might worry about cycling alone.

Japan is a dream destination for many, but many people are put off from visiting due to the high costs. However, there is a budget way to explore Japan, and this is — you guessed it — by bicycle touring.

Wild camping is legal in Japan, meaning you can pitch your tent for free as your travel around the country. Public baths are everywhere and cheap, meaning you can wash easily on the road, too.

Roads in Japan are generally well-maintained, aside from the occasional pothole. Long cycling paths are not as common as in South Korea, but it’s possible to cycle on minor roads, which are usually very beautiful and not too heavily trafficked.

Like South Korea, Japan is also incredibly safe, making it a great option for solo cyclists.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a very popular destination for cycle tourists; it has a warm climate, there’s so much to see and do, and it’s very budget-friendly . It’s feasible for you to eat out every day and stay in guesthouses, rather than camp and cook your own meals. With this in mind, you could think of Southeast Asia as a luxury destination for touring!

The landscapes are spectacular in this part of the world. You could cycle down the coast of Vietnam, tour through peaceful Laos or pedal along the mighty Mekong River.

How to budget for a bicycle tour

One of the perks of cycle touring is that it’s typically cheaper than your average getaway. Your cooking and camping gear have you covered for food and accommodation, and your bicycle is your transport.

That being said, your daily bicycle touring costs will vary massively depending on your touring style and which part of the world you’re in.

Cycle touring is doable on any budget, but if you’re cycling on a shoestring, it may require a strong sense of adventure and the will to adapt to some discomfort.

If you choose to wild camp, cook your own meals and skip paid attractions, you could potentially tour on a mere $5-10 per day.

On the other hand, you could easily burn through over $100 a day if you choose to eat out and stay in hotels while touring expensive places like West Europe, North America and Australia.

Most tourers’ daily budget falls somewhere in the middle. For example, I prefer to tour by staying at campsites and cooking my own meals. This way, I always have a place to pitch my tent with access to toilet and shower facilities. I also allow myself some luxuries, such as the occasional meal out, fancy coffee from cafes, and some paid attractions. Touring this way, I spent roughly €30 per day while cycling across Europe.

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to camp but is worried about the costs of staying in hotels, consider touring somewhere like Southeast Asia, where accommodation and eating out are super cheap. You could expect to pay roughly $20-30 per day in Southeast Asia by eating delicious street food and staying in budget guesthouses.

As well as your daily touring costs of food, accommodation etc, you’ll want to factor in potential bike repairs and kit replacements. Leave yourself a buffer, in case a hole rips into your tent or your bike needs professional repair.

Finding bike-friendly accommodation

Unless you’re planning a short trip, it’s not practical to plan accommodation in advance. Weather, equipment, your energy levels and other factors can all influence the distance you cover each day. You might also find an unexpectedly nice town and want to spend some time there. With this in mind, it’s best to remain as flexible as possible when it comes to where you lay your head at night.

Campgrounds

Campgrounds offer a safe place to pitch your tent, along with a toilet and shower, and usually WiFi and electrical outlets, too. They’ll even sometimes have laundry facilities, cooking stations and more. Campgrounds can be a great place to stay at a really reasonable price.

In Europe, Australia and New Zealand, you’ll find that campgrounds are everywhere and usually good value for money. In Japan and South Korea, there are many free campgrounds where you can stay.

Watch out for privately-run campsites in the US, as they can charge a lot of money for a small patch of grass. They usually prioritise RVs and may even turn cyclists away!

You won’t really find campgrounds in developing countries, such as in the Middle East or South Asia.

Sometimes you just need a break from camping! Hostels are generally the cheapest way to get a bed for the night, if you don’t mind sharing a room with other people. They’re most commonly found in cities or larger tourist towns — it’s unlikely you’ll find hostels in super rural areas.

In expensive places, such as West Europe or Australia, hostels can be as low as $10, although they’re usually closer to $20. In cheaper places, like Southeast Asia, they can be as low as $4 per night (yes, really)!

If you’re touring in places like Western Europe, the USA or Australia, then nothing will blow your budget faster than staying in hotels. However, if you’re sick or have been riding in bad weather for a few days, a hotel room with an actual bed and a private bathroom can be a real morale booster.

If you do stay in hotels, make sure there is somewhere secure to lock your bike up. Cycle tourists are not usually well catered for at hotels — I had to lock my bike to the fence in a hotel garden in Austria as there was nowhere else to put it.

In continental Europe, you might spot a type of hotel called a pension . Pensions are usually much more budget-friendly than a full-scale hotel and are more like a guesthouse or bed and breakfast. Pensions near bike paths in Germany and Austria often have signs outside to let cyclists know their bikes are welcome: “Radfahrer Wilkommen.”

In less expensive places, such as India or Southeast Asia, it’s affordable to stay in budget hotels every night.

Wild camping

Wild camping is a great way to save money and enjoy nature. It also offers complete flexibility, as you can pitch your tent just about anywhere — a real lifesaver in areas where tourism isn’t common.

You’ll want to find a secluded spot if you choose to wild camp, away from roads and out of sight of people.

Bear in mind that wild camping is prohibited in many countries, although many cyclists do it anyway and don’t get caught. Most people have a relatively relaxed attitude to wild campers, and so may or may not ask you to move on if you’re caught. Just make sure to be discrete: find a secluded spot, wait until dusk to set up camp and be gone by early morning.

If you’re new to wild camping, it’s normal to have some worries at first. I used to be afraid that an unpleasant stranger would come by or the police would show up to ask me to move on. However, as long as you remain hidden and are discrete, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter any problems.

WarmShowers

If you’re not familiar, Warm Showers is a free worldwide hospitality exchange for touring cyclists. It’s a fantastic community — cyclists offer to host other cyclists for a night. You’ll be given a place to sleep and a shower, but it’s likely you’ll also be given food and a beer. Warm Showers states that they have hosts in over 160 countries!

Unconventional options

Churches, police stations, gas stations, farmer’s fields and more are often viable options when looking for somewhere to spend the night. It depends on the country and the laws they have on camping, but in many places, people will be happy to help cyclists and provide somewhere for them to pitch their tent.

People across the world are hospitable and kind — particularly when they see a weary-looking cyclist with lots of gear strapped to their bike!

As an example, myself and two other cyclists pitched our tents next to a gas station in Turkey one night. The security guard gave us coffee and snacks, and a passing farmer even gifted us some watermelon and tomatoes.

Overcoming worries and doubts

If you’ve never been on a cycle tour, you may feel overwhelmed and have doubts about whether you’re capable or not.

Let me tell you: if I can do it, then so can you. With no touring experience, little knowledge of bike mechanics and a not-so-great level of fitness, I cycled from London to Istanbul over the course of 3 months.

I am not particularly brave or strong-willed. I just took it one day at a time.

What if I know NOTHING about bike mechanics?

Don’t worry! I didn’t know much about bike mechanics before committing to my first 3-month cycle tour.

That being said, it would be extremely helpful to know a few basics in case of a breakdown. At a minimum, you should know how to pump your tyres and how to repair a flat tyre.

If you really do know nothing about bike repair, it would be wise to choose a destination where you’re not going to become stuck if your bike breaks down. A popular route like the western part of EuroVelo 6 is dotted with bike repair shops, as well as other bike tourists who would probably be happy to help if you’re in a tough spot.

How do I train for a bicycle tour? Do I need to be really fit?

As the saying goes, “train for the tour or let the tour train you.”

You do not need to be really fit. Training can be done on the road, as long as you’re willing to take things slowly at first. You don’t need to cover massive distances each day if you don’t want to, and no one will judge you if you need to get off your bike and push sometimes.

Ignore the self-important types who think you’re not a proper cyclist just because you only cycled 30km and pushed your bike up that hill.

That being said, having good fitness will make your bike tour much more enjoyable.

Try to cycle 3 or 4 times a week, including one whole day of cycling over varied terrain. This will help to improve your fitness, as well as prepare your body for long days in the saddle.

I’m still not sure if bicycle touring is for me…

If you’re nervous about committing to a big tour, why not have a practice run? You could head out somewhere local one morning, camp that night and then head home the next day. This will give you a feel of what bicycle touring is like.

Alternatively, there are companies such as Spice Roads , Grasshopper Adventures and Bike Adventures that offer fully supported, guided cycle tours. All the logistics will be taken care of for you, so you can enjoy cycling without worrying about getting lost or finding places to stay. This is also a great option if you simply don’t feel comfortable touring on your own due to safety concerns.

What’s the best travel insurance for a bicycle tour?

It’s harder than you would expect to find a decent travel insurance policy that covers bicycle touring. And, unfortunately, most policies that do cover bicycle touring do not cover damage to or theft of your bike.

If you’re a UK resident, Adventures Insurance is probably the best option.

As the name would suggest, they specialise in insurance for more adventurous pursuits — including cycle touring. They cover personal liability and medical expenses while cycle touring, and even allow equipment up to £1,000 to be covered, with a single item limit of £600. However, the maximum duration of your cycle tour must be 3 months.

If you’re not a UK resident or will be touring for longer than 3 months on one continent , I would recommend World Nomads , whom I personally use for most backpacking and general long-term trips.

You can read World Nomads’ policy on cycling-related travel  h e re , but here are the basics:

• Cycle touring is covered but the tour must be on one continent only — no cover is available for intercontinental cycle touring.
• You’ll need to tick  ‘cycling / biking – independent cycle touring’  when buying your policy. This is an optional extra, so be sure to select it.

READ MORE: 5 Best Cycle Touring Insurance Providers

Tips for life on the road

1) Take every opportunity to refill your water bottles.

2) Drink before you are thirsty and eat before you are hungry.

3) Carrying your own toilet roll is  essential.  Trust me.

4) Double-check your camping spot before you head off for the day. Cycling back for something you’ve forgotten is the worst!

5) Especially for longer tours, build in a luxury day every so often. A nice hotel room and a warm bath are so welcome after weeks of camping.

6) Be sure to take rest days and make time for sightseeing.

7) Be conservative with the mileage at first; no amount of training can adequately train you for hours in the saddle day after day.

8) Find the little roads. They’re usually much nicer to cycle on than the more direct but busier roads.

9) Stock cubes can add flavour to almost anything and are great to mix into a perhaps otherwise flavourless camp meal.

10) Be prepared to get dirty! Sweat + sunscreen + cycling is an unpleasant combination. Tiny insects and layers of dust/dirt will stick to your skin.

11) Learn the mistakes drivers make, and assume everyone is going to make them every time.

12) Numbness in any part of your body should be treated as a warning sign that something needs to change in your bike fit or cycling posture. Numbness can lead to serious problems and should be treated seriously.

13) It’s not a race. Who cares if you only cycle 10km a day? As long as you’re enjoying yourself, that’s all that matters. As Jimmy Buffett said, “go fast enough to get there but slow enough to see.”

14) A lot of the challenges are mental. The going can get tough at times, but the pros of touring have always outweighed the cons for me.

15) The most important bike touring tip of all:  have fun!

READ MORE: 40 Random Yet Helpful Bike Touring Tips

I hope this bicycle touring guide for beginners has been useful and has provided a good foundation of knowledge to help you plan and prepare for your first cycle tour.

Please feel free to post any questions you may have in the comments section below; I’ll be more than happy to answer!

Happy cycling, Lauren

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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47 Travel Tips To Plan Your First Bike Tour

Preparing to set off for a bicycle tour is exciting. Whether you are about to embark on a journey of your lifetime or just short trip there is a lot to consider before you set off.

When we were planning our world tour on bicycles we felt overwhelmed with all the information available on the web. To help out first-time bicycle travelers we’ve compiled a list of travel tips inspired from questions asked by our readers, advice given to us by other bike travelers and our own experience.

Some tips might seem like common sense but it is easier to see that from the comfort of your home. It’s just some ideas to get you thinking about life on the road.

Like with anything you set out to do, you learn best by trial and error. However some pointers along the way can help you make the most out of your first bicycle tour.

1. TAKE IT EASY. Don’t try to crank out 100km a day everyday. Too much cycling can wear you down and cause you to burn out.

2. DON’T SPEND TOO MUCH MONEY ON GEAR. It’s easy to get caught up in all the high tech travel gear that is out there. Remember to keep it simple, you will appreciate it when you have more money to spend on ice cream after a hot day of cycling!

3. Learn at least the basics of LANGUAGE OF THE COUNTRY you plan to cycle in. Not only will you be able to order food and ask for directions you will be able to have conversations with locals.

4. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK. Most people want to help, if there’s something you need whether it’s water or directions just ask.

5. DON’T BE AFRAID TO BARGAIN . In some cultures bargaining is the norm. We saved lots of money in Mexico asking for discounts at hotels and markets. Of course don’t fight over a few cents when someone is in more need than you are.

6. SOMETIMES YOU NEED A LIFT. Your bike breaks down, you get sick or maybe you are just fed up with cycling. There’s no shame in asking for a ride or taking a bus every now and then.

7. Put down the GPS and TALK TO PEOPLE. When you are lost cycling down some dirt road leading to who knows where, a GPS will do little to help you.

8. TAKE A BREAK. The daily grind of cycling, camping and eating pasta every night can get old. It’s good to take a break from time to time to recharge your body and mind.

9. BE INVOLVED IN THE BICYCLE TOURING COMMUNITY. The web is filled with great bicycle touring blogs , forums and groups of bicycle tourists for you to take advantage of. It’s a great way to research routes, ask questions, get advice and connect with other bicycle travelers.

10. ASK TO CAMP . Camping saves you an incredible amount of money while on tour. Police and fire stations often host cyclists and allow them to camp on the station grounds. Bring you own tent or camping hammock and you are all good to go.

11. WATCH OUT FOR SPEED BUMPS . We have met several cyclists who have had some major injuries caused by not seeing speed bumps on downhills.

12. It’s okay to SPLURGE EVERY NOW AND THEN. If you’ve had some rough days on the road treating yourself to some good food or a nice room is a quick way to lift your spirits.

13. TAKE LOTS OF PICTURES. Some of the best pictures we have are from when our friend Pablo came to visit. We had already been on the road for a few months and the day to day life of cycle touring had lost its photo interest but not for Pablo. His photos of our nights camping, cooking and cycling always bring back fun memories.

14. PICK UP ABANDONED CLOTHES. Sometimes we come across a t-shirt on the side of the road and we pick it up and use it as a rag to clean the bike.

15. LOOK OUT FOR FRUIT TREES. Fruit trees, especially in tropical countries are great sources for afternoon snacks.

16. GET OFF THE BIKE. Don’t abandon your other interests just because you are on tour. Hiking and other outdoor activities are great ways to spend some time off the saddle.

17. KEEP A JOURNAL. Writing at the end of the day or during your lunch break is great way to use your mind.

18. MAINTAIN YOUR BIKE. Simple maintenance such as cleaning and oiling the chain can go a long way.

19. START AS SOON AS YOU CAN. Make someday today.

20. If you use ORTLIEB PANNIERS carry a repair kit. These patches were life savers when squirrels chewed two massive holes through my front panniers!

21. BE OPEN TO LEARNING. Traveling is a great way to learn new skills such as languages or cooking.

22. Get used to being asked the SAME QUESTIONS OVER AND OVER …and over! Where are you from? Where are you going? Try to keep a smile on your face and remember it might be the first time this person has ever met someone traveling by bicycle.

23. USE HOSPITALITY WEBSITES such as Warmshowers and Couchsurfing .

24. If you are traveling through a country in which the LANGUAGE IS VERY DIFFERENT than your own write a few sentences about yourself and your trip and find someone who can translate them into the local language.

25. If you are traveling as a couple , in some traditional countries it’s best to SAY THAT YOU ARE MARRIED instead of just boyfriend and girlfriend.

26. PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN. I’ve even started wearing a lightweight long sleeve shirt to protect my arms from becoming fried.

27. TRY LOCAL FRUITS AND DISHES.

28. Find PODCASTS on topics that interest you and listen to them while cycling.

29. DON’T GET TOO FRIENDLY WITH STREET DOGS and remember to wash your hands if you touch them.

30. CARRY ENOUGH WATER BOTTLES and refill them often. Running out of water in the middle of nowhere is a terrible feeling.

31. HIDE YOUR PASSPORT AND CASH in your back panniers. Keep a small amount on your handlebar bag for daily expenses.

32. Keep a BAR OF SOAP HANDY so you are able to wash your hands after changing a tire.

33. You DON’T NEED ULTRA CYCLING CLOTHES . I prefer comfortable casual clothes while cycling opposed to cycling clothes. When we get to town I feel like less of a weirdo!

34. BE FLEXIBLE . Weather and road work can force to change plans, roll with it.

35. WHEN YOU MEET OTHER BICYCLE TOURISTS on the road don’t bombard them with a million questions about how many times they change their chain and what type of tires they use.

36. Don’t be afraid to GIVE UP YOUR PLANS and take each day as it comes.

37. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. Eat well, shower and wear sunscreen. We’ve meet some rough looking cyclists out there!

38. EXPLORE. There are some routes that are little to unknown don’t be afraid to leave the main road to explore them.

39. WRITE TO YOUR MOM . While on the road it’s easy to loose track of days. While you are living in the moment your parents and loved ones want to hear from you.

40. Don’t be afraid to CARRY A LITTLE EXTRA WEIGHT for something you enjoy. There are some non essential items that bring me a bit of joy, like when I can take off my sweaty cycling sandals and put on my flip flops at the end of the day.

41. DON’T WORRY WHAT OTHERS THINK. There will be plenty of people out there telling you are crazy for wanting to go travel by bicycle.

42. Don’t worry to much about PRE-TRIP TRAINING. 

43. Remember HARD TIMES ARE NEVER FOREVER. The uphill climb will eventually lead to an amazing down hill.

44. If you are sensitive to light and sounds carry a pair of EAR PLUGS AND AN EYE MASK. Sleeping outside, the sunrise and rooster crows will prevent you from getting those extra hours of much needed sleep.

45. INVITE YOUR FRIENDS .  You might be surprised which of your friends would be willing to come join you on the road for a few weeks.

46. DON’T WORRY ABOUT GOING TOO SLOW. It’s not a race. The slower the go the more you will see and experience.

47. HAVE FUN! Don’t take touring too seriously. Enjoy the ride.

BONUS TIPS FROM OUR READERS

• Put drier sheets in your panniers, tent and sleeping bag to keep things a little fresher along the way.  – Kristin and Rusti of Krusti’s Slide Show Blog .

20 Responses

Put dryer sheets in your panniers/tent/sleeping bag to keep things a little fresher along the way!

Great tip, changing into good smelling clothes is such a luxury on the road!

Interesting post! Picking up abandoned clothes makes sense. You can save some penny from buying rags in the market. 🙂 I have been introduced to cycling tour in your blog. So I am learning a lot, thanks. 🙂

Saving money is a plus but even more, t-shirts are great for cleaning the chain, some rags can be too thick. Welcome to the world of bicycle touring Nichelle 🙂 Let us know if you have any questions.

Hey Amanda,

Great tips for anyone starting out on their first tour!

I’d also add to choose the right bike type – preferably hybrid, touring or road. Last thing you’d want is to take a gear-less bmx. That would definitely make #47 an impossibility haha

HEY AMANDA,

Great Tips! Helped me alot as i am planning my first bicycle trip.

Anyways, keep up the good work. I really like the content you put up on your blog.

Glad to hear you found the post useful. Where are you headed to? Enjoy your tour!

i love travelling when it comes with bike riding. best part of it is you can be very close to the nature with bike travelling and few problems you need to deal with but overall it is best travelling plan to go with bike.

Couldn’t agree more Jeff.

Understand that when it comes to accommodation do what you feel most comfortable with. Personally I a bit of comfort (yes it does cost a bit more) and stay mostly stay in B & B’s or small family owned hotels with character. You do not need to camp (although I have) or use the suggestions mentioned on point #23.

If bicycle touring in North America or Europe just carry basic bike repair items you can (and have on several occasions) find a repair shop nearby.

Very true Tom! Everyone should ride their own ride 🙂

Awesome Tips! Helped me a lot as i am arranging my first bike trip.

In any case, keep doing awesome. I truly like the substance you set up on your web journal.

That’s great to hear! Enjoy your first bike trip 🙂

Some god tips there, thanks. Looking forward to doing my first cycle trip at the end if the month…solo, down through Ireland, camping, 3 days only but so looking forward to the challenge of it. Is my mileage expectations too high?? 150k, 120k and a final 105k day?

THANK FOR SHARING. I am going to plan to travel in Argentina and this post is very helpful information for me.

That sure is a comprehensive list – I am off for a cycle trip this weekend. Thanks

Great article, really good balance between cycling and plain ole common sense! I used to do trips like this when I was younger but now find myself only doing day trips. You’ve reminded me that there’s more to life than the day to day!

If the language is a huge problem and you really want to ‘talk’ to people … Many locals are very curious about what on earth you are doing and where you come from. However, geo-knowledge is often poor, so ‘Europe’ (for us instead of the Netherlands) is the best we can do. In Asia and Africa family is the most important thing in the world. So take some pictures with you of your mom, dad, brothers and sisters and grandparents. Use your imagination and hands to explain who’s who. We had great times !

A great list I will use when I start cycle touring in the near future

These amazing tips can lead even the beginner to a perfect safe jurney.

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How to Travel by Bicycle (Bike Touring Guide)

There are so many beautiful reasons to go bicycle touring. It’s simply for everybody- no matter your weight, physical condition, experience or budget, you can travel by bike!

If you’re planning to do your first bike tour but have ZERO experience, stick around cause we’ve listed all the tips you need to get you started with your ride. 

Bike Touring vs. Regular Cycling

At its core, bike touring is about embarking on long-distance journeys on a bicycle. It’s not just about the destination, but the journey itself. Unlike regular cycling, where the primary goal might be exercise, commuting, or a short recreational ride, bike touring is about exploration, adventure, and self-sufficiency.

Imagine this: Instead of cycling around your neighborhood or through a local park and returning home, you’re pedaling through scenic countryside, exploring new towns, and at the end of the day, you’re setting up camp under the stars or checking into a cozy inn. That’s bike touring.

• Adventure : Every day brings new scenery, challenges, and experiences.
• Flexibility : You decide the pace, the route, and where to stop.
• Connection : Engage deeply with the environment and the communities you pass through.
• Physical Demand : Requires stamina, especially on multi-day tours.
• Preparation : Planning routes, packing gear, and ensuring safety can be intensive.
• Unpredictability : Weather, road conditions, and other factors can affect your journey.

The Joy of Bike Touring

There’s a unique sense of freedom in bike touring. The open road, the wind in your hair, and the thrill of what lies around the next bend. Every pedal stroke brings a new perspective, every mile a new story. And at the end of the day, there’s the satisfaction of setting up camp, reflecting on the day’s journey, and anticipating the adventures tomorrow will bring.

Planning Your First Bike Tour

Before starting a biking tour, there are things you have to plan. Are you going on-road, off-road, or both? What bike should you use on the tour? What should you bring? How far can you ride? Where do you stay at night? Every ride is different. The more details you put into your plan, the more successful your ride will be. 

Bikepacking

Generally, bike-packing is more off-road using wide-tired mountain bikes with shocks. It’s a tour on dirt roads in secluded places. It’s also a great option if you want to go back-country hiking while enjoying the thrills of riding your mountain bike.

Touring in mountainous areas can be demanding so backpackers carry light loads during their rides. Although, carrying less means there is less stuff you need to worry about.

Cycle Touring

If you’re in love with the idea of “living life on the road, then cycle touring is for you. It can range from single to multi-day trips while traveling across towns, cities, or even countries. Cycle tours will require bringing all the gear you would need to travel around sufficiently. Backpacking, on the flip side, demands only the most essential stuff to make cycling less physically demanding.

Getting the Right Bike

On-road ride.

Touring bikes are great for on-road rides. Most touring bikes are pretty heavy because they have steel frames that absorb the cushion of the road. 

You can also go on a road bike, although most road bikes aren’t built for long-distance bike touring. A hybrid combo like gravel bikes also does well on the road. These bikes are lightweight and designed to handle a wide range of different terrain and surfaces.

Off-road Ride

Mountain bikes are still best for off-road riding because you’re gonna be able to do hills and trails that you wanna hit without damaging your bike and hurting yourself. 

When choosing a bike for off-road tours, you should optimize your bike setup by considering your load’s weight, riding surfaces, and terrain steepness.

The Importance of an Upright Riding Position

An upright riding position is crucial for long hours on the saddle. It reduces strain on the back, neck, and shoulders, allowing for a more comfortable and sustainable ride. This position also offers a better vantage point to enjoy the surroundings.

Expert Tip : Look for handlebars that allow multiple hand positions. This can help reduce fatigue and numbness on longer rides.

Geometry and Stability

The geometry of a touring bike is tailored for stability, especially when loaded with gear. A longer wheelbase, lower bottom bracket, and relaxed head tube angle all contribute to a bike that handles well, even when weighed down with panniers.

Example : Consider two cyclists – one on a nimble road bike and the other on a loaded touring bike. While the road bike might excel in a city sprint, the touring bike will shine on a multi-day journey through varied terrains, providing a stable and comfortable ride.

Features of a Typical Touring Bike

• Durable Frame : Often made of steel, which is resilient and can be repaired in remote areas.
• Wider Tires : Provides better traction and comfort on different surfaces.
• Mounts for Panniers and Racks : Essential for carrying camping gear, food, and other essentials.
• Reliable Braking System : Disc brakes are common for their reliability in varied weather conditions.
• Gearing : A wide range of gears to handle steep climbs and fast descents.

Expert Tip : When choosing a touring bike, consider the type of terrain you’ll be covering. For rougher trails, a touring bike with wider tires and a more robust frame might be ideal. For paved roads, a lighter touring bike with a more streamlined design could be the best choice.

Packing Essentials 

Preparing your bike tour list is crucial. What you should pack will depend on the length of your ride and where you’ll be. Below, we discussed how you can efficiently pack when traveling on-road or off-road. 

Panniers or Backpacking Bag?

When planning to do a bike tour, you should bring panniers for storing your stuff. These bags are spacious and built to be attached to the sides of your bike’s front and rear sacks. It can also be detached once you reach your destination. We suggest you get a waterproof pannier to protect your stuff from getting wet during rainy trips.

Panniers are best for long cycling tours where you can store all of your food, clothing, gears, and other essentials. When packing for an off-road trip, opt for a bike packing bag (or the best bike messenger bag ) because it would demand lighter load set-ups than a four-pannier cycling tour set-up.

Choosing your Direction

In choosing your destination, consider the weather and the landscape. The weather will also tell you what you need to pack, how far you can ride, and when you should start pedaling. 

Are you craving mountainous terrain, city view, or both? When choosing a scenic spot, remember to consider going on lean seasons if you don’t want to get stuck in traffic. Or you can look for routes with a few motorists to avoid undesirable traffic jams. 

How Much Will Bike Touring Cost?

If you’re touring America and you already have all the necessary gears you need before you hit the road, you’ll pretty much need $35 to $50 per day to cover your food, camping fees, and repairs and gear replacements. But if you’re planning to tour overseas, here’s a quick breakdown by travellingtwo.com of the possible expenses per day:

• Europe: $39.64 
• Morocco: $40.00 
• Syria: $23.89 
• Iran: $17.16 
• Turkey: $53.97 
• Turkmenistan: $15.21 
• Uzbekistan: $19.09 
• Kazakhstan: $18.07
• Kyrgyzstan: $26.58 
• Thailand: $32.33 
• Cambodia: $34.11 
• Laos: $22.00
• Malaysia: $28.59
• Singapore: $20.70 
• Australia: $33.01 
• New Zealand: $34.67 
• Canada: $30.06 

Basics of Bicycle Touring

1. Understand the Different Types of Bike Touring :

• Day Touring : Short trips that last a day. Ideal for beginners to get a feel of bike touring.
• Credit Card Touring : Multi-day trips where you stay in hotels or B&Bs and dine in restaurants. Lighter load since you don’t carry camping gear.
• Fully Loaded Touring : Carrying everything you need, including camping gear and food. Offers the most freedom but requires thorough preparation.

2. Physical Preparation : Start with shorter rides and gradually increase your distance. This not only builds stamina but also helps you get accustomed to spending long hours on the saddle.

3. Learn Basic Bike Maintenance : Knowing how to fix a flat tire, adjust brakes, and maintain your chain can save you from potential troubles on the road.

Steps to Become a Pro at Bicycle Touring

1. Plan but Be Flexible : While it’s essential to have a route and itinerary, be prepared for changes. Weather, road conditions, or unexpected discoveries might alter your plans, and that’s okay!

2. Pack Smart :

• Essentials First : Prioritize tools, spare parts, water, and food.
• Balance Your Load : Distribute weight evenly between front and rear panniers.
• Limit Luxuries : Space is limited, so only pack what you’ll truly need.

3. Engage with the Community : Join local cycling groups, participate in forums, and connect with experienced tourers. Their insights and stories can be invaluable.

4. Document Your Journey : Maintain a journal, take photos, or even start a blog. Documenting helps you reflect on your experiences and share them with others.

5. Safety First : Always wear a helmet, use lights and reflective gear, and be aware of traffic rules and road conditions.

6. Embrace Challenges : Flat tires, unexpected rain, or steep terrains are all part of the journey. Embrace these challenges as they come, and remember, they make the best stories!

7. Continuous Learning : The world of bike touring is vast. From new gear innovations to different touring philosophies, there’s always something new to learn.

Expert Tip : Start with a short, local tour to familiarize yourself with the experience. It’s a low-commitment way to understand what bike touring entails and to identify areas you need to work on.

Common Mistakes in Bike Touring 

1. Using the Wrong Bike: I t’s possible to use any bike for a bike tour, but using the right bike that’s specific to your needs will make a difference in your overall comfort and success during your trip.

2. Fear of Starting: Start right off! Don’t wait for years of planning before starting to go on a bike tour. Waiting until you’re too old and physically incapable will only bring you lots of regrets. 

3. Not Documenting Your Tour : Capture the most scenic view you’ve seen, the best experiences, and the most beautiful people you’ve met during your bike tour. It’s good to look back on the physical and emotional memories during your bike-tour. 

4. Not Knowing How to Do Minor Bike Repairs and Adjustments : Learn a few repair and maintenance skills before going on a bike tour. These basic things will save you time and money! Not only that, but a well-maintained bike can also ensure a smooth and safe ride.

About The Author

Antonnette Baker

Hey there! We’re Antonnette and Mario, a sister-and-brother tandem who love bikes and biking.

We and our team use our extensive knowledge about bicycles to help you have a great riding experience.

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Cycling in the City and Beyond

Complete Guide to Bike Touring

This article will tell you everything you need to know about what bike touring: How to prepare physically and mentally, how to pack, and the best places to tour around.

Introduction

Regular cycling can make for a great day out, but you’re limited to the places you can conceivably travel to within a day, with enough time to return home again.

Bike touring, on the other hand, lets you travel to places further afield. On a bike tour, you travel to a number of checkpoints before you stop and set up camp for the night. This allows you to rest up and refuel for the day of cycling ahead so you can complete the next leg.

This guide will give you a complete overview of bike touring, why it’s become so popular, how you should train for it, what you need to pack to take with you, how to plan your route and tips for touring on a budget. At least you can’t say we haven’t been thorough.

Why Travel by Bike?

Despite it being both physically and mentally challenging, there are a number of reasons why people choose to travel by bike rather than traveling by more traditional means.

Compared to the cost of flights and ferries, traveling by bike is a much cheaper way to get around your chosen touring destination. Aside from the cost of the bike itself, of course.

This is ironically a far cry from the origins of bike touring , once reserved for the rich and aristocratic before they moved on to motor cars. Today, bike touring provides a way for people to travel around beautiful countries while keeping the costs of traveling low.

Bicycles can be a great extension of ourselves. Although they allow you to travel around much faster than you would be able to explore on your own two feet, they’re small enough that you will still be able to access smaller, off-road paths and trails that cars can’t access.

These days, there are also plenty of airlines and travel agencies that will allow you to travel to your intended destination with your bike, which is much cheaper than renting a bike after you have arrived. Plus, people often prefer their own bikes.

Builds Fitness

Traveling by bike requires a lot more physical activity than traveling around by boat or bus, so you’ll be able to build on your fitness levels while enjoying the beautiful local scenery. It’s got to be better than cycling on a treadmill at the gym, right?

There are multiple health benefits of cycling such as improving your mental wellbeing, and a number of fitness-related benefits including building muscle, improving stamina, and aiding weight loss. It’s certainly challenging, but traveling by bike can also be hugely rewarding.

Explore New Cultures and Landscapes

As you travel from place to place you’ll pick up more of the culture around you and you’ll be able to truly appreciate the landscapes you’re exploring.

Traveling by bike allows you to stop and smell the roses – literally – while you’re on the road, as you can stop to meet or chat with the locals. This is harder to do if you’re traveling with a large group and have to adhere to someone else’s travel schedule.

Cycle Touring or Bikepacking?

Cycle touring is when you travel the world with the entirety of your luggage mounted to your bike, either using bicycles specifically designed for this with their own rack and fender mounts, or by converting a regular hybrid bike so you can use it as a touring bike.

This is ideal for when you’re planning a longer trip that requires more luggage, as you can attach more to the front of the bike. There’s room for things like additional cooking equipment, a camera, extra clothes, a laptop or electronic devices, and your tent setup.

Bikepacking, on the other hand, is a more recently adopted version of cycle touring which involves traveling much lighter and traveling much lighter without cumbersome luggage racks, and often venturing off-road for large portions of the journey.

One of the great things about bikepacking is how the “lean setup” allows for either road or gravel bikes provided that they have a 28mm tire clearance as a minimum. They’re also incredibly lightweight and will allow you to fly around the country on your bike in no time.

City Traveling

Some of the best cycling tours to add to your bucket list include the Cultural Trail in the Midwest city of Indianapolis and bike tours in Vietnam and Cambodia where you can enjoy the culture and cuisine of local restaurants along the way.

However, you have to be more careful when touring city areas due to the busier roads and crowds of people. Make sure to store your bike somewhere safe and preferably padlocked indoors when you’re not riding it during the day to avoid anyone stealing it.

Mountain Exploring

Bikepacking offers “the ultimate freedom” according to Lee Craigie , a former Great Britain XC mountain biker and a founding member of the Adventure Syndicate, a group that encourages riders to explore new adventures and push themselves to the absolute limit.

Choose the right mountain bike for bikepacking and all that’s left to do is pack your bags and choose your destination. Mountain exploring is what bikepacking essentially is at its core, so it’s the perfect option for this type of bike touring holiday. Check out the Glacier National Park bike tour and the Carolinas bike tour to climb the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Am I in Good Enough Shape?

One aspect of bike touring that many people find daunting is that it can be physically as well as mentally challenging, so how do you know if you’re in good enough shape?

How Far Can You Ride in a Day?

The distance you’re able to travel by bike in one day is largely determined by your overall fitness level as well as a number of other factors. This includes your personal targets, the type of touring you’re doing, and the terrain you’re cycling on.

You’ll need to train for a bike touring trip in order to ensure your fitness levels are enough to carry you through days of cycling with little rest in between.

As a general rule, adults who have a standard level of fitness can travel at a pace of 65 miles per day on average when traveling over paved roads and carrying less than 20 pounds of gear, and this still leaves time for you to stop and explore or rest your legs for a while!

How Much Gear to Take?

The more weight you’re traveling with, the more physically challenging it will be and the longer it will take you to reach each stop. That’s why it’s always better to try and pack light.

Only take what you need and try to avoid picking up too many souvenirs along the way, or your legs will be the ones paying for it! Later in the article, we’ll go into more details about the essential travel items that you should take with you to help you avoid overpacking.

Based on the example we gave above, if your gear weighed somewhere between 20 and 45 pounds, you should lower your expectations to a pace of around 55 miles per day, although this can increase or decrease depending on the type of terrain you’re traveling on.

Training for a Bike Tour

Bike tours may be an incredible experience, but part of what makes it so rewarding is how challenging it can be at the same time. It does mean, however, that you’ll need to train for it.

Build a Training Plan

Bike touring is enough of a challenge that you can’t go into it with your eyes closed. It’s best to build and follow a training plan in order to make sure you’re physically fit enough to handle the requirements of cycling for miles every day with minimal rest time in between.

Be realistic with your goals and what you hope to achieve on your trip, and gradually work towards this, leaving yourself with enough time to recover before the beginning of your trip.

Base Training Miles

If you’re going to be away for days or even weeks where you’ll be cycling consistently, you’ll want to put in some miles on your bike before you go.

Try to increase the length of time you’re cycling for on every ride in preparation for your tour. You’ll want to have a decent base mileage that you’re able to achieve daily and you can use this to estimate your daily travel distance or a flexible schedule for your trip.

Build Strength

Before you can set off on a bike tour, you’ll need to make sure you’re physically strong enough to carry all your gear while you cycle over long distances for many days.

Building strength before your trip will mean your muscles are more prepared for what’s in store and will be able to repair themselves faster as you push yourself. This means you’ll feel less sore, which will make the journey much more enjoyable for you.

Build Endurance

Although you’re likely to improve your endurance as you go (this is one of the benefits of bike touring!) you’ll enjoy your trip more if you’ve already built some endurance beforehand.

Cycling holidays usually involve successive long days of intense traveling. Although it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to practice such distance before you go, adding some extra miles onto your weekend rides is advisable.

Practice Riding with Weight

Riding a long distance is one thing, but riding that same distance with a full backpack or a bike mount piled high with luggage is something else entirely. Trust us when we say you don’t want to find out what a difference this makes for the first time on day one of your trip.

As such, we’d recommend practicing riding with weight a few times to help build up your strength and endurance so you’ll be ready to take on consecutive days of riding your bike.

Finding a Bike

They say a bad sportsman blames his equipment, but finding the right bike can make or break a bike touring trip. It’s important to choose one that isn’t going to make the aches and pains you’ll probably be feeling after a few days even worse, so comfort is key.

There are bikes specifically designed for bike touring but you can use pretty much any type of bike when you’re first starting out before forking out for a brand new expensive bike. Certain types of bikes can even be customized to suit your individual needs.

The one exception is road racing bikes as they focus on quick handling rather than comfort and durability, which is the second most important factor to consider when choosing a bike.

Look out for low gears on your touring bike as you’ll need these when you’re traveling over trickier terrain or if you reach a point of your journey where you’ll be traveling mostly uphill.

Rack Mounts

The ability to mount racks is another important feature to look out for on a touring bike as this will make it much easier to carry your gear with you while you travel.

There’s some debate over whether you should opt for V-brakes or disc brakes for touring, but ultimately it will depend on your personal preference. We’d recommend choosing disc brakes over V-brakes, as the latter is likely to wear away at your wheel rims over time.

Touring bikes typically have a shorter reach which makes it easier to navigate while you’re riding and helps to keep your body upright in the correct position. This will make your ride easier and help mitigate the aches and pains associated with cycling all day.

Wheels and Tires

You’ll need to factor in the type of road you’ll be traveling on most often. Wider tires are better in most cases where you’ll be riding on uneven terrain, whereas city riders will be better off with a standard 700c size tire .

Planning Your Route

This definitely isn’t the type of holiday that should be left to being organized at the last minute, so learn how to plan your route properly before you go.

Popular Destinations

The Great American Rail-Trail is one of the most popular routes for bike touring and there are some incredible cycle tour vacations suitable for beginner bike tourers.

Planning Ahead

Not only will this save you money, but you’ll have a better idea of how long different routes will take you. You will be able to better plan the next few days so you can make the most of your experience without wasting time getting lost, or money on things you don’t need.

Camping or Hotels?

Bike touring purists would argue that you need to camp each night in order to have a full and true experience, but we don’t see anything wrong with treating yourself to a hotel stay one night after a particularly long day of riding. In fact, this can be a great way to round off a trip!

Planning your route means you can avoid areas known for being unsafe for cyclists and you can keep to quieter roads where there are fewer cars.

Getting to Your Destination

Before you can take off pedaling across the country, you’ll need to make your way to your starting point. If this isn’t local to you, you’ll have to factor in the travel to your destination, which can sometimes be a little complicated when you’re traveling with a bike in tow.

If you’re traveling by car with a bike there are plenty of bike mount racks available that allow you to attach your bike to either the back of the trunk or on top of the vehicle.

You can try to fit the bicycle on the back seats if your chairs go down or if it’s easy to temporarily remove the wheels for traveling. There are also foldable bikes that are highly convenient if you’re going to be transporting them in your car frequently.

Transporting a bike on a plane involves packaging it up in a bike box or bike bag before you travel. It typically costs around $10 to $12 to have your local bike shop package it up safely for you, which is often much easier than trying to do it yourself.

Don’t forget to think about how you’re traveling to the airport as well, as you’ll need to make sure your bike box or bag can fit on the backseat of your car or taxi.

If you’re hoping to hop on a bus or a train with your bike, you may be at the mercy of the driver and whether or not there is any room for your bicycle to comfortably fit. In some cases, you may be required to purchase a second ticket if your bike takes up too much space.

You might also want to research or make inquiries at your local station to check if you can travel with a bike on board, or if they have a separate storage compartment for bikes.

What to Pack?

Ryan Gardill points out that “ If you have a tent and a sleeping bag and a bike, you’re really set ”, but what else do you need to think about when you’re packing for a bike touring trip?

Tools and Parts

To ensure you can take care of any maintenance issues or bike repairs on your journey, you’ll need to make sure you’ve packed a few tools and parts.

• Bike pump: Whatever terrain you’re traveling on, your tires are going to need refilling at some point. Pack a lightweight pump and check your tires before you set off.
• Multi-tools: These can be incredibly useful for a multitude of repairs.
• Adjustable wrench: This is another handy tool to have in the event of a repair job.
• Repair kit: If things go wrong, repair kits usually contain everything you would need to take care of a minor issue with your bike so you can get back on the road.

Choosing the right clothing is extremely important for comfort, so make sure you pack these essentials.

• Cycle touring shoes: Seeing as your feet will be pedaling you across the country, you’ll want to invest in a comfortable pair of cycling shoes . These are designed to provide a good grip on the pedals but are breathable enough to prevent your feet from overheating and uncomfortable blisters from forming.
• Cycling shorts: Aim for a material that is breathable and comfortable and try to pack more pairs than you think you’ll need.
• Sports shorts: Again, it’s advisable to pack a few pairs.
• Cycling socks: Don’t just use any socks as it’s really important to avoid blisters, and it can be a good idea to double up on cycling socks for extra protection.
• Thermal skins: If you’re going to be traveling during the colder months you’ll need something to keep you warm on your journey.
• Cycling jerseys: Cycling can be dangerous if it’s not easy for other people and especially drivers to spot you so choose bright, colorful cycling jerseys.
• Loose base layers: Layers are easy to add or remove based on your body temperature so you can stay comfortable.
• Jacket: Choose one that’s waterproof and well-insulated to protect you from the rain and keep you warm during the colder weather.
• Gloves: Depending on the climate of wherever you’re touring, gloves can help you keep a better grip on the handlebars in the cold and prevent numbness or wind chill.
• Warm hat: Heat escapes from the head, so a warm hat can help combat the cold.
• Underwear: Always pack more than you think you’ll need and try to choose underwear that won’t cause chafing.
• A scarf or neck gaiter: Not only will this help keep your neck warm in cold weather, but it’ll also protect you from sunburn and windburn in warm weather.

It’s important to be clever with your storage options, as every bit of space on your bike counts.

• Pannier racks: Although not the most exciting part of your bike to pick out, you should pay attention to your pannier rack for your bike as this is how you will transport your luggage and other equipment.
• Pannier bags: It’s often a good idea to opt for waterproof pannier bags to prevent your equipment from getting wet if it rains.
• Small frame bag: You can use this to store anything you might need while you’re riding.
• Handlebar bag: This can hold anything you might want to keep close to hand while you’re riding and should be waterproof.
• Frame bottle cages: Hydration is highly important when you’re traveling long distances, so keep one or preferably two to the frame of your bike.
• Bungee cords: It’s better to have too many bungee cords than too few.
• Zip ties: Similarly, zip ties are always handy to have, so remember to pack them.

Accessories

Some accessories that can be useful to bring along for the ride include:

• Sunglasses: You’d be surprised by how many people forget about sunglasses, but it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare as this can impede your vision which is a safety hazard when you’re riding. They also protect against an even bigger hazard: bugs.
• Phone: As if anyone in the modern world could forget their phone… right? Just don’t forget to also pack your charger and perhaps a portable battery pack.
• Phone mount/holder: Having a phone mount or something to hold it while your hands are busy will make it much easier to snap photos or answer phone calls.
• Water bottles: You’ll need to take care to stay hydrated so make sure you take a good hydration pack or a few spare bottles to keep filled.
• Bike lock: Your bike is the only form of transport you’ll have, so remember to lock it up when not in use to prevent your wheels from being stolen.
• Headlamp: When you’re cycling past nightfall or into the evening a headlamp or head torch can be used with your bike lights to illuminate the road ahead.
• Sound system: Some people enjoy listening to music while they travel, so a sound system will produce better quality sound.
• Laptop: This one is technically optional, but what isn’t optional is the case you’ll need to carry it in for protection.

Camping and Cooking Gear

It’s not just about remembering all your biking gear. Don’t forget that you’ll be camping overnight to break up your days of riding.

• Tent: First and foremost, find a lightweight tent that’s easy to pitch and take down.
• Bedding: Camping mats are comfier than the hard ground beneath them and can be conveniently rolled up and carried while you’re riding.
• Hammock: Another lightweight piece of comfort you can pack is a hammock, either for sleeping in or for relaxing after touring all day.
• Microfiber towel: If you’re drying off sweat or if you’ve been swimming, a microfiber towel is great to use as it dries ultra-quickly and can be repacked.
• String lights: These are a convenient way to illuminate your campsite area.
• Cutlery: You won’t get far with dinner without them! Include a knife, fork, and spoon, as well as any preparation utensils you’ll need, like a chopping board.
• Dishtowel: Unfortunately, the washing up still needs to be done on tour.
• Gas and stove: There are plenty of portable gas stove options available but make sure everything is in working order before you leave.
• Cups, plates, and bowls: Similarly to cutlery, you’ll be in a pickle if you forget these.
• Pots and pans: Aim for ones that are lightweight yet durable enough not to break on the road.
• Tupperware: This is a great way to save leftovers. Why not have last night’s dinner as a snack during tomorrow’s ride?

Medical Supplies

Lastly, it’s important to be prepared for all situations, even the ones you hope won’t happen.

• Hand sanitizer: Because there won’t necessarily always be somewhere to wash your hands.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste: In trying to remember some of the less obvious things to pack, don’t forget about basic hygiene.
• First aid kit: This will typically contain bandages and alcohol wipes for emergencies.
• Sunscreen: You’ll be spending most of your time outdoors exposed to the sun’s UV rays, so aim for sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or above.
• Bug spray: Mosquitos. Need we say more?

Top Tips for Touring on a Budget

Bike touring is already a pretty affordable way to travel, but here are some tips for touring on a budget.

Travel With a Friend

A problem shared is a problem halved, and so are the costs when you travel with a friend. You’ll have someone to contribute to food costs and park fees, as well as widening your pool of potential friends’ houses to crash at along the way.

Use Apps to Find Food and Lodging

There are some apps like Warm Showers that you can use to help you find food and sometimes even accommodation for free along your route, offered by friendly fellow bike enthusiasts who make up a sort of Couchsurfing community.

Avoid Campsites

Campsite fees are one of the biggest costs of touring, so why not skip them and pitch your tent in one of the many free parks that you are legally allowed to stay in. Just make sure to do your research beforehand to check the rules.

Stay Open to Opportunities to Make Friends

Strangers show incredible acts of kindness every day, so keep an open mind when you meet people out on the road as you never know what type of generosity you might inspire. When the people you meet hear of your long journey ahead, they may offer food or advice.

Plan Where to Go and What to See in Advance

Having a plan of action means you’ll be able to budget according to the various locations you’ll be traveling to and the things you’ll want to do along the way, which makes you less likely to accidentally overspend.

Also, don’t forget to check your insurance policy before you go.

Talk to Locals

These are the best people to speak to about local deals and restaurants in the area that offer the best value for money. If you’re lucky enough to strike up a friendship with any of the people you meet, they may even tell you to pass on their name for a special discount.

If you’re thinking about taking a trip somewhere and touring on your bike, this article should have provided you with enough information to start planning to turn this dream into a reality!

We hope you’ve found it helpful, and if there are any questions, concerns, or tips for other riders out there, please feel free to reply in the comments section.

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A Beginner’s Guide To Bike Touring: 9 Tips To Start Cycling

Cycle touring is an eco-friendly & adventurous form of travel. here's how..

Updated by Francesca Brooking

Edited & Fact Checked By Amber McDaniel

Updated April 23, 2024

Have you ever wanted to hit the open road…but on two wheels instead of four? 

Bike touring is a low-impact form of travel offering both freedom and adventure in equal measure. 

Doing your first cycling tour can seem like a daunting prospect as there’s arguably more planning involved than setting off in a van or backpacking. You need to think about equipment and training alongside the route you plan to take. 

To help you get started, we’re braking out some easy tips to set you off on the right pedal and have an epic cycling adventure of a lifetime.

Exploring Cycle Touring & Our Top Tips To Travel By Bike

What is bike touring.

• Have The Right Bike
• Get The Right Gear
• Think About What You Pack
• Tune Your Bike
• Be Repair Ready
• Always Be Insured
• Plan Your Route
• Be Fit Enough For Your Route
• Enjoy The Adventure

Bicycling touring is a combination of backpacking and cycling. 

It’s a form of travel where you cycle continuously for days, weeks, or even months at a time through a country or region, carrying all your gear in panniers and other bags strapped to the bike. 

It’s sometimes used interchangeably with ‘bikepacking’, although some purists argue that bikepacking is reserved for mountain bike touring and minimalist camping only. 

Think: backcountry hiking but on a bike instead of on foot. 

Whichever term you use, cycling is an eco-friendly form of travel. Bikes don’t burn fossil fuels so you have a much smaller carbon footprint than if you were driving or using public transport. 

It encourages you to slow down and get to know a place rather than speeding through it. You also learn to adopt a more minimalist lifestyle as you’re only carrying the essentials you need. 

For those reasons, cycle touring holidays are a growing trend as travelers crave adventures beyond the ordinary that combine freedom with the great outdoors. 

9 Easy Tips To Get Started With Cycle Touring

1. have the right bike.

It may be one of the most obvious bike touring tips but you must have the right bike for your tour as it will be your main mode of transport. 

Make sure it’s the right size for you so it’s comfortable to ride. Check if it can handle panniers (you’ll likely need to mount a rear bike rack on which to hang them) and will be suitable for the type of terrain you’re planning to ride on. 

There are many different styles like road, gravel, and mountain bike touring. Choosing the right one for your adventure will maximise its performance and minimize damage. 

You could also opt for an e-bike with electric assisted pedal power to make your tour a little less strenuous, but you will need to be mindful of their charging needs. 

Whichever bike you go for, check that it has a comfortable seat at the right height and working safety equipment like a bell and lights. 

It’s also critical to ensure your bike has the right frame size for your body. Like clothing, they typically come in frame sizes XS–XL. Riding an improperly sized bike can make for a very uncomfortable and inefficient ride. 

If you’ve familiarized yourself with bike fitting basics but are still unsure of how to size your bike, any local cycle shop can help you out.

2. Get The Right Gear

Be prepared for your pedal-powered adventure by choosing the right gear for you and your bike. 

Opt for panniers and a frame bag instead of a backpack to take pressure off your back. Make sure they’re waterproof and fastened on securely, as you don’t want one to fall off and get left behind. 

Topo Designs makes bike bags out of recycled materials. They’re colorful and fun with plenty of versatility. 

While you don’t need to go full unitard, cycle touring clothing —such as fingerless gloves, sun sleeves, padded leggings and shorts, windproof jackets, and jerseys with easy-grab lumbar water bottle holsters—is also a must.

Ornot sells certified climate-neutral bike equipment made from recycled or natural fibers. 

You’ll also need to make sure you have the proper shoes. Road bikes are often equipped with specialized pedals that you actually clip your shoes into so they don’t easily slip off, whereas gravel and mountain bikers use flat-soled shoes and clipless pedals that make it easy to disengage in the event of a crash.

Traveling by bike is not without risks, so always wear a helmet to protect yourself on the road or trail as it could save your life.

3. Think About What You Pack

Remember, you will be carrying everything on your bike so you should think carefully about what to bring. 

Aim for minimalism to reduce the amount of excess weight you have to shift. After all, it will be you peddling up that hill!

Start by choosing where you plan to sleep. If you book accommodation along your route, you will be able to travel lighter but you won’t have as much flexibility to stop for the night if you get tired. 

Camping is more affordable, but requires bringing a tent, stove, cooking equipment, sleeping bags, mats, and food. It’s a lot more weight to carry but you have more freedom to stop and rest (depending on camping/pitching laws). 

A lightweight, easy-to-pitch cycle touring tent you can strap on the back without fuss will be key. 

If you camp, you may need to sacrifice the amount of clothes you bring which is doable by making occasional stops at a laundromat or bringing some detergent to hand wash as needed.

While it’s handy to have some cupboard staples, you don’t need to bring the entire kitchen with you as you can stop at supermarkets along the way. 

Some lightweight and more densely nutritious food you might want with you include energy bars, oatmeal, dried fruit, trail mix, tea, instant coffee, and chocolate.

4. Tune Your Bike Before Beginning

It’s always good practice to tune your bike, especially before going on tour. 

You can do it yourself if you’re familiar with bike mechanics or take it to a professional to be extra sure it’s done properly.

Tuning helps you maintain your bike’s performance and spot any factors that might hinder its safety like rust, dirt or worn-out parts. 

It’s also an easy way to prolong the lifespan of your bike which would otherwise be costly to replace. A well-tuned budget touring bike can feel more satisfying to ride than a brand-new expensive one. 

Get started with basic DIY tuning by giving your bike a good hose down with a water spray. Take care to avoid bearings or suspension seals as you don’t want water getting in anywhere it shouldn’t. 

Next, add some degreaser or simple washing-up detergent to the drivechain and scrub off dirt with a stifle-bristled brush. 

If you feel comfortable, you could take the wheels off and clean the derailleur and chainring with an old towel to remove any grime or grease. 

Always allow your bike to dry thoroughly outside before putting it away as this prevents it from rusting. 

5. Be Repair Ready

Even if you get your touring bicycle professionally tuned, it’s still important to know basic repair skills on the road. It could be the difference between a successful trip and getting stranded. 

Bring a basic bicycle repair kit with you which includes spare tire tubes, a hand pump, allen keys, a torque wrench, a pedal spanner, a chain breaker tool and pliers. 

Practice using your tools so you’re familiar with doing emergency repairs such as changing a flat tire, resetting a popped-off chain, or adjusting gears and brakes. 

6. Always Be Insured

Anything can happen and one of the best ways to protect yourself against theft, loss, damage, injury and cancellations is with cycle touring travel insurance.

Make sure you read your policy carefully so you know exactly what it covers. Chances are you (hopefully) might not need it but you don’t want an unpleasant surprise if you do, especially since most plans are quite affordable.

Some of the best cycle touring insurance providers to look at are: 

• World Nomads 
• Big Cat Travel Insurance 
• SportsCoverDirect
• Velosurance 

The right provider for you depends on your circumstances. If it’s relevant to you, check their policies on pre-existing conditions, age limits and countries they cover. 

7. Plan Your Route

Plan your route before setting off rather than relying entirely on a GPS. You’ll be prepared for the terrain and you’ll be less likely to come up against unexpected surprises like road closures or big hills. 

It’s important not to rush through the tour. Give yourself time to vary it up to give your body a rest and see the places you’re visiting. 

Planning out your route beforehand allows you to set yourself a realistic mileage each day.

If you’re a beginner, don’t bite off more than you can chew. Start small with a short route and build up from there. This might be an afternoon or full day on flat terrain, a weekend with overnight bicycle camping or a practice run with all your equipment. 

Choose a well-cycled touring route rather than going off-track for your first trip or two. You’re more likely to come across other cyclists who can help if you encounter a problem. 

If you are venturing into more remote areas, it’s critical to carry a GPS, especially one with satellite communication capabilities in case of an emergency, like a Garmin inReach® .

8. Be Fit Enough For Your Route

Cycling long distances daily is physically demanding. 

Your body will ache, your legs will feel like jelly, and you might feel stiff in places you didn’t think possible. This is normal. 

You can mitigate the physical endurance by setting a route with a realistic amount of mileage and training beforehand to build stamina.

Set a goal to ride a certain amount of miles or hours a week with at least one weekly long ride. Take yourself to the gym to build muscle and core strength. You may also need to add lunges and squats into your fitness routine to strengthen your knees and calves. 

Do plenty of stretches to aid muscle recovery during breaks and after each day. Bring equipment to help you stay on track like compression socks and a foam roller to loosen tight muscles. 

Remember, the key is to pace yourself. It’s not a race—unless you’re competing in the Tour de France!

9. Enjoy The Adventure

Bike touring is filled with adventure and the exhilarating freedom of the open road so let yourself ride with it. See where the road takes you. 

Unlike a car, plane or public transport, bike touring gives you a unique opportunity to slow down and savour the place you’re traveling through. 

You’re the first to notice the changes in terrain and weather when you travel by bike . You see landscapes and connect with communities you might never see in a vehicle. 

Cycling also benefits your mental health. You have time to live in the moment rather than worry about the past or the future and you’ll make new friends from all over the world along the way. 

Be flexible and open; it’s all part of the experience.

Closing Thoughts On Beginner-Friendly Bicycle Touring Tips

With the wind in your hair and the open road stretched out ahead of you, biking is an exhilarating form of travel. 

It allows you to slow down and see the world at your own pace—with the added bonus of a lower environmental impact than motorized transport.

All you need to do now is choose where you want to go. Some of the easiest adventures can be found in Europe thanks to the continent’s heavy bike infrastructure.

Soon, you could be cruising and eating your way around Northern Italy, cycle touring in Spain along the coast, or wining and dining on the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route . 

Don’t forget to share this guide with an adventure-loving friend and start planning your bike trip of a lifetime. 

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Bike Touring 101

Experienced riders know the simplicity of bike travel is one of its great joys, but to the curious newcomer, this new world of possibility can appear bewildering. Let us demystify adventure cycling.

Who travels by bike?

Bicycle travel appeals to a broad spectrum of people and there are many ways to do it. It can be done individually, with friends, or with a commercial tour operator. People of all ages, backgrounds, and regions of the world choose the bicycle as their favorite means of travel.

Adults in their seventies and children in their teens (and younger!) have ridden all the way across America. Bicycle travel is attractive for many reasons: it’s an exciting challenge that allows us to explore new landscapes and cultures, build physical fitness, and experience the joy of breathing fresh air and meeting new people every day.

Am I in good enough shape?

The good news is that you don’t need to be a super-athlete to enjoy cycling. However, you’ll want to spend some time training on a bike before your trip. The best thing to do is to be realistic about what you can do and create achievable goals. Then, work your strength up to riding the same daily distances you plant to cover while carrying the same gear you plan to travel with.

How to Train for Your Tour

You’re physically ready if you can do back-to-back day rides that are as long or longer than you are planning for your tour, and feel like you could ride again on the third day. One of the pleasures of bike travel is that you’ll be riding into progressively better and better shape as you go. 

How far can I ride in a day?

This varies depending on your overall fitness, your personal goals, the style of touring you choose, and the terrain. Here are some tips to plan by.

With a bit of bicycle-specific training, an average physically fit adult carrying less than 20 pounds of additional gear on their bike can expect to travel at an average pace of 65 miles per day on paved roads and still have time to stop and smell plenty of roses. With a load of gear totaling 20-45 pounds, the average pace to plan for should be lowered to 55 miles per day. If the terrain is particularly flat or mountainous, the average will increase or decrease accordingly. For mountain-bike travel, these distances can be cut in half, or more, depending on the ruggedness of the terrain.

Experienced bicycle travelers can ride farther, but for most people, planning to exceed these averages has a tendency to increase the physical challenge and decrease enjoyment. We recommend that you plan for at least one rest day out of ten, and carry no more than 45 pounds of gear, and a lot less if you can. Always plan time in your day, and days off in your trip, for unexpected challenges and good opportunities.

What kind of bike should I use?

Many types of bicycles can be used for touring. Although some bikes are specifically designed for touring, most quality bicycles can be customized for touring use, with the exception of road racing bikes, as they emphasize weight savings and quick handling over durability and comfort. (Folks do it, but we don’t recommend it for reliability reasons.)

Important characteristics of an appropriate bike are durability, a comfortable riding position, and low gears for climbing hills. The ability to mount racks , fenders , and wide tires (32 mm or greater) is also a plus.

What to Look for in a Touring Bike

Experienced bicycle travelers have their preferences, but there is no single style of bicycle that is an overwhelming favorite. Ultimately, your choice is based on personal preference and the style of touring you want to do (paved roads vs. dirt roads and trails, amount of gear to carry, etc.). 

How do I decide where to ride?

Besides the obvious—scenery, history, and any other personal interests you have—look for low-traffic routes and/or roads with good shoulders. Keep in mind that many of the places you’d like to see by bicycle, such as national parks, can be choked with traffic and undesirable for cycling.

Mountain bikers usually look for routes with little or no motorized traffic and as little pavement as possible. The biggest question they need to answer is usually: Can all of the route be ridden with a loaded bike or trailer?

Where and When to Go on Your Bicycle Tour

Many resources for finding bicycle-specific routes that emphasize safe roads and rideable trails can be found right here:

• Adventure Cycling’s  Bicycle Route Network and touring maps
• State resources, including tourism agencies, state bicycle/pedestrian offices, advocacy groups, and local bike clubs.
• Local and regional cycling maps and guidebooks listed under their respective states and countries.

How do I carry my stuff?

The most common methods of carrying gear are panniers and trailers. Panniers are luggage that attaches to your bicycle on racks that sit over or next to the wheels. Ortlieb and Arkel are two top-quality brands. Quality racks are available to fit nearly every bicycle.

Trailers come in many varieties, usually with one or two wheels. Most are easy to attach and fit on almost any bicycle. The BOB Yak/Ibex and Burley Nomad are both excellent choices.

Panniers excel on paved-road riding and single-wheel trailers are at their best on rough, unpaved terrain, but both can work well for nearly all types of touring. Personal preference is the ultimate arbiter.

Where do I stay at night?

First decide if you want to camp (inexpensive, independent, closer to nature) or stay in hotels (comfortable, less gear to carry).

Top 10 Bicycle Camping Tips

Tourism agencies, chambers of commerce, convention and visitor’s associations, and many internet resources list information about motels, campgrounds, B&Bs, and other lodgings. Many maps and guides, including Adventure Cycling Bicycle Route Network maps, list local options.

Is it safe to travel around America alone?

Yes. Bicycle riders are typically perceived to be very non-threatening and are often treated warmly by strangers, especially during emergencies. The chances of something bad happening to you during a bicycle tour are likely to be no different than they are in your everyday life at home.

How much does bike touring cost?

The cheapest way to go is to camp and cook your own meals.

Assuming you have all the necessary gear before you leave, and you are touring in America, a budget of $35-$50 a day should be enough to pay for camping fees and groceries and still stash a bit away for unforeseen expenses like repairs or gear replacement. Going dirtbag-style, it’s possible to travel on $10/day or less.

7 Tips for Bicycle Touring on a Budget

For those with luxury in mind, well, the sky (and your bank account) is the limit. The beauty of bicycle touring is that it can be as comfortable or as adventurous as you want it to be.

This story has been updated and was originally published on December 22, 2015 .

Related Reading

Planning a group bike tour, the gear you need to get started bike touring, adventure cycling with a twig stove.

How to plan a cycling holiday

There’s lots to think about when planning a cycling holiday, especially if it’s your first cycling trip abroad and/or you want to make it awesome!

Below you’ll find our best tips on how to plan a bike trip – from deciding where to go and whether to book a tour, to picking accommodation and deciding what to take. We have years of experience preparing for bike trips and now we want to share our knowledge and expertise with you…

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, just drop us a line . We’d love to hear from you.

How to start

There are lots of factors to consider when bike trip planning – this can make it difficult to know where to start! It’s the same as when trying to plan a holiday that doesn’t involve cycling – and then adding even more things to think about!

We usually begin with the question of where to go and narrow it down from there. This article is structured in that way:

Part 1 covers where to go, with the idea that you create a long list of places you’d like to cycle in and then narrow the list down by using the remaining factors, such as who’s going on the trip, what kind of holiday you want and when you’re looking to go.

Part 2 moves on to other issues you’ll need to consider when planning your bike holidays, including insurance, whether to hire your bike or take your own and what to pack.

We hope you enjoy the planning process!

Part 1: Planning a cycling holiday (where, when and how)

1. where to go.

It’s time to create your long-list of places you’d like to ride in!

Cycling holiday inspiration

If you’re looking for inspiration, head over to our 70+ destination guides here . They’re broken down by country and each regional guide gives detailed information on what it’s like from a cyclist’s perspective, including where to ride and GPX files. They’re packed with our best cycling in Europe tips (and advice on further afield destinations too).

The inspiration section of our website is also there to help and these articles are also very popular and potentially useful to you when creating your long-list of destinations:

• 15 of the world’s best cycling routes
• Best cycling destinations in the world
• Best cycling destinations in Europe
• Best cycling routes in Europe
• 7 top cycling holiday destinations in France
• Planning a cycling holiday in Belgium
• 9 top cycling holiday destinations in Spain
• Cycling in Italy: what you need to know
• Cycling in the Alps: what you need to know
• Cycling in the Pyrenees: what you need to know
• Best cycling routes in Switzerland
• 13 top cycling holiday destinations in the UK
• Cycling in Scotland: what you need to know
• Best cycling routes in the UK
• Best family cycling routes in the UK
• Best gravel bike adventures in Europe

Here are some factors to consider when picking your bucket list of cycling trip destinations:

Popular or off-the-beaten-track destination?

The mountains of Italy, France and Spain draw thousands of cyclists each year. Made famous by the Grand Tours, climbs like Alpe d’Huez, Mont Ventoux, the Stelvio and Angliru are always popular. Summers are short at these kinds of altitudes and this means the roads are busy with tourists – both the regular kind in cars and motorhomes but also the lycra clad kind… Hotels and accommodation make the most of the demand and prices in July and August are at their height.

If you want more ideas, our pick of the best cycling climbs in Europe (and this pick of the hardest climbs ) might help.

If you’d prefer to go somewhere less known, other parts of Europe offer fantastic possibilities for some of the best cycling holidays abroad. For instance, you could opt for less mainstream places like cycling in Switzerland’s St Moritz/Engadin Valley , Spain’s Terres de l’Ebre , Croatia , Poland or the Algarve . Or you could even go just outside of Europe – for example Iceland’s Westfjords region . This might lead to your cycling trip requiring more planning as there will likely be less support available locally, but for more experienced cyclists this might be a price worth paying.

Even if you’re basing yourself in a city, consider whether you might be able to squeeze in some riding! (Check our pick of the best cities for cyclists and we have guides to cycling from cities as diverse as Brussels , Melbourne , San Francisco and Edinburgh .)

Easy cycling holidays, challenging adventures or something in-between?

How fit are you?! Are you looking for famous climbs and steep mountain passes – or are you less bothered about ticking off the famous cols and are happy in the hills?

Challenging

For hardcore cycling fame and glory, the French and Italian Alps are obvious destinations and you could also consider the Italian Dolomites, French Pyrenees and Spanish mountain ranges such as the Sierra Nevada and northern Spain.

If you’re less about bucket list climbs and bragging rights, the foothills of the famous mountain ranges might suit you better than the mountain valleys themselves. These kinds of area often offer the option to cycle into the mountains or enjoy easier days in flatter areas on quiet roads. Base yourself somewhere like Port de Pollenca in Mallorca, Girona in Spain or Paphos in Cyprus and you’ve got the best of all worlds.

Classic easy cycling holidays in Europe tend to be focused around the river cycle paths and veloroutes of Europe – for example the Danube, the Loire and the Burgundy Canal, but we’d also encourage you to consider bases like Girona as mentioned above.

There are guides to all of these places (and many more besides) here .

How many days/weeks have you got?

It’s an obvious point, but bear in mind how long it’s going to take you to get to the destination you like the look of. (For those in the UK), a long-haul destination like Chile , Borneo , Japan, Colorado, Uruguay, Singapore or the Caribbean , is quite a different matter to somewhere closer to home like Yorkshire or the Alps !

Factor in things like the time you have to arrive before a flight/ferry and transfer times at both ends to make sure you’re getting a realistic idea of the overall time it’s going to take you.

There’s no point booking a long weekend cycling trip somewhere that’s going to take you two days to travel to/from…

This article shares our pick of the best long weekends in Europe for couples to visit.

To fly or not to fly?

Flights and transfers (plus baggage charges/bike hire…) have an annoying way of eating into your cycling holiday budget. There’s also the environmental cost of flying, especially for short journeys – read this for more on eco-friendly cycling holidays . It can be a lot easier to just stick everything in/on the car and drive, rather than having to pay careful attention to airline policies on weight allowances and number of suitcases. If you want to take your e-bike, driving might also make things easier – read this for more on flying with/shipping e-bikes .

So, when weighing up flying or ferry/drive holidays, remember that many destinations in mainland Europe are a feasible drive away (from the UK). Our pick of the best cycling destinations in Europe that you can drive to from the UK might come in handy. You might also want to know about hiring a bike van.

However, if you’ve only got a short time to travel or want to get somewhere a bit more far-flung ( Seychelles , San Francisco,   Dubai or Maldonado in Uruguay , anyone?!), flying might well be the only way to go. If you feel bad about your carbon footprint, you could always consider carbon off-setting – it’s becoming a more popular part of planning a bike trip for those who care about the environment.

How much driving are you willing to do?

If you’re doing a DIY trip, make sure you’ve planned your routes before you book (each of our free destination guides have lots of route suggestions). If there are particular climbs or routes you want to do, check out whether you’re going to be able to take them all in from the accommodation you’re staying in or whether you’ll need to drive to the start of a climb/loop route. Is that something you’re willing to do?

For example in the southern Alps, the famous climbs are much more spaced out than in the central Alps. This means you may only have a couple of loop rides from one base without repeating parts of what you’ve already done. The same goes for the classic destinations in the Dolomites like Corvara. To get to new areas you’ll need to get in the car or change base.

When we explored the Yorkshire Dales, we had our family in tow. We left the kids with grandparents at Centre Parcs Whinfell Forest, but this meant we had to drive into the Dales each day to start our rides. Not ideal.

If you’re in the UK and considering UK cycling holiday destinations, you’ve got hardcore regions for cycling such as Cornwall, the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District or easier cycling holiday destinations such as the Isle of Wight.

This is one of the most overlooked things when it comes to how to plan a cycling holiday. So make sure you’re definitely comfortable with how much time you’ll be spending behind the wheel.

Travel restrictions

While COVID-19 doesn’t really factor into planning your cycling trips abroad anymore (phew!), that doesn’t mean you don’t have to consider other potential travel restrictions for your road cycling holiday.

Always remember to check FCO advice (or the travel advice of your particular country for those outside the UK) and new requirements due to Brexit.

Travel insurance and passport validity/travel documentation is important too (more on that below ).

This will have a big influence on your decision.

2. Who’s going?

Family cycling holidays.

If it is a family bike trip, will you all be riding, just the adults or just you?

Family bike tours can be fantastic, but if everyone’s cycling, you’ll need to think carefully about the number of miles you’re riding each day, the terrain and places to stop en route. Depending on the age of the children, you will need to consider whether they’re up to riding their own bike and whether you’re happy on roads or would prefer bike paths.

From personal experience, family bike trips with toddlers and young children are particularly age dependent. A cycling holiday with a sedate 2 year old who is happy to sit in a seat on the back of a bike is quite a different matter to a cycling holiday with a stubborn 4 year old who won’t go on the back of your bike but also can’t cycle more than a few kilometres.

If it’s just the grown-ups that are cycling, what will you do with the kids when you’re on your bikes? You’ll want accommodation with a great kids’ club or be willing to hire a nanny/babysitter.

If you’re the only cyclist, make sure your other half is on board with how much riding you want to do and when! It won’t hurt to pick somewhere where there are lots of potential kid-friendly excursions too.

Read our tips for planning a family cycling trip for more details and inspiration for good destinations. Our UK family cycling holiday and Europe family cycling holiday articles might also be useful.

Cycling holidays for beginners

If this is a cycling trip for beginner cyclists, you’ll probably have an easy cycling holiday in mind and will want to focus your research on Europe’s flatter terrain and easy routes.

You may also want to think about getting some extra support from a cycling holiday company. They can offer support in the case of mechanical breakdowns or if you or one of the riders in your group runs out of energy to ride any further. There’s more information on the options available below .

These tips for beginner cyclists might also be useful.

Solo cycling holidays

If you’re an experienced cyclist and happy in your own company, you might be happy travelling and riding by yourself. This article contains tips for solo cycling . We also have several multi day routes ridden by solo cyclists, take a look at this Calgary to Vancouver in Canada, or this guide to Poland’s Masurian Lakes .

Otherwise, you might want to get in touch with a reputable cycling holiday company and see what mixed group departures they have available. Some companies specialise in cycling holidays for solo travellers – do a bit of research and you’ll find lots of options. This article gives the lowdown on women’s bike tours .

Alternatively, you could consider just getting a few days guiding in your destination. This way you could do some riding alone and some with a local guide. There’s always the option to contact a local cycling club before you leave – many will be happy for you to tag along with one of their rides.

Group cycling holidays

If you’re part of a group of cyclists looking for a cycling holiday, your requirements are likely to be different again. For example, if your group is on the large size, you might need quite a hotel that can offer lots of single rooms. But if it’s a case of you and a friend are planning a cycling holiday, finding suitable twin accommodation is a lot easier.

Also, one of the major questions you’ll need to consider is the fitness of the cyclists within your group. Are you all at a similar fitness level?

What are your objectives? Is this a hardcore training camp or a relaxed holiday in the sun? Perhaps you are a team of colleagues looking to take on a corporate cycling challenge ?

What speed will you ride at? Will you ride all day every day?

Ideally there’ll be at least a few of you of similar abilities so that you can ride together. You could also consider an e-bike tour – the option for hiring electric bikes for those that are less fit; electric bike hire is becoming increasingly popular and available, especially in mountainous areas.

This article on how to plan a group cycling holiday has lots more information.

Women’s cycling holidays

Some women might prefer to go on a cycling holiday that’s just for women. If that sounds like you, read our article about what makes a women’s bike tour different and questions to ask before you book.

3. What kind of cycling holiday are you planning?

Supported/self-supported cycling tours/diy cycling holiday.

Who will do all the planning and booking for your trip? Are you the bike trip planner, or are you using a cycling holiday company?

Getting a company involved will probably make it more expensive and you may lose some flexibility in the itinerary, but it should also take the hassle out of all the trip planning. On a guided trip, they’ll probably provide a support car and most meals. This is a particularly attractive option if you’re looking at a point to point trip or planning a trip on behalf of a group. It’s also a good option if you’re looking for other cyclists to ride with or just want the comfort of there being a support vehicle on hand.

In fact, often with a guided cycling holiday, you just need to turn up at the airport with your bike (unless you hire one) and they take care of you for the entire trip. From airport transfers to guided routes and mechanical assistance, there are plenty of levels of personalisation that the best cycling holiday companies offer. And if you really have a lot of cash to splash, completely bespoke holidays are an option too. They often include things in addition to cycling, like local attractions and things to do off the bike.

There’s more information about supported cycling holidays here:  

• What is a guided cycling holiday (and is it right for you)?
• 13 things to check before booking a bike tour
• The best luxury bike tours 
• Planning a budget cycling trip

Once you’ve decided you want a company to help you organise your tour, these guides to choosing the best cycling holidays in France, Spain and Italy should assist:

Cycling holidays in France

• Cycling hotels in France
• How to pick a cycling holiday in France
• An unbiased comparison of the different cycling holiday operators in France
• Overview of the best Provence bike tours
• Pick of the best Alpine bike tours
• In-depth review of cycling tours in Nice (+bike rental)
• Long distance cycling routes in France

Cycling holidays in Spain

• Cycling hotels in Spain
• How to pick a cycling holiday in Spain
• Comparison of the different cycling holiday operators in Spain
• Overview of the best Mallorca bike tours
• Long distance cycling routes in Spain

Cycling holidays in Italy

• Our pick of the best Italy cycling tours

And finally, if you are interested in which cycling tour operators we have worked with in the past, read this.

Point to point or one base

A point to point trip will allow you to feel like you’re on a real cycling adventure, covering lots of ground, taking in beautiful landscapes and passing through plenty of towns and villages.

Classic examples include:

• London to Paris
• Land’s End to John O’Groats
• NC500 in Scotland
• Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland
• Raid Pyrenees
• Routes des Grandes Alpes
• Portugal’s N2 road
• Camino de Santiago in Spain
• Via Francigena in Italy

There are also more bespoke tours such as Seville to Valencia in Andalucia, Spain . As well as events in the USA like cycling across America . There are also the long distance veloroutes that run throughout Europe.

Organising a point to point trip obviously requires much more effort than a single base type trip. When considering how to plan a holiday that begins and ends in different places, travel can be a little more tricky. Plus you’ve got to find somewhere to stay each night. If you’re camping and carrying all your gear it might be relatively straightforward, but if you’re relying on B&Bs/hotels and need someone to transport your gear, there will be much more to do in the way of logistics.

Which option is best for you will heavily depend on who you’re with, whether you’ve got someone to help arrange everything and whether you want a traditional holiday with a bit of cycling or a full on cycling odyssey. These types of holidays are great for getting plenty of miles in and really seeing different parts of a country. Whether it’s the UK or abroad, you’ll come away with a much broader perspective than if you’d stayed in one central base.

Cycling event

You might want to base your holiday around a specific cycling event or challenge. The event itself may only take up a day or two, but perhaps you can tack on a few days and turn it into a holiday?

Our granfondo guide and pick of the best UK , European and Worldwide cycling challenges should give you some inspiration!

Our guides to these incredible events might also help: Dragon Ride , Marmotte , Maratona , Mallorca 312 , Granfondo Stelvio Santini ,  Saimaa Cycle Tour , Col de la Loze sportive , Peaks Challenge Falls Creek , and Taiwan KOM.

If you’re looking for an easier starting point, this article on the best cycling challenges and events for beginners will be a useful read.

At the other end of the spectrum, perhaps you want to take on an Everest cycle challenge ?

Or you might be looking to just watch the pros in action: how about a Tour de France trip , Spring Classics trip or trip to watch the Tour of the Algarve ?

As these events become increasingly popular, more tour companies offer their services to provide a one-stop trip. It takes the hassle out of you needing to organise accommodation at what will be one of the busiest times of the year for the local hospitality industry, and can guarantee you entry into events which may sell out quite quickly otherwise.

Type of cycling

What kind of terrain do you want to ride? Easy, flat bike paths? Roads? Off-road? Or a mix of all the above?

Make sure your destination supports the kind of riding you’re looking for.

The “types of cycling” section of our site has more details. The e-bike touring and gravel touring sections might be particularly useful.

Training camp

If you’re the kind of person that’s driven by objectives, perhaps you want to use your cycling holiday as more of a focused training camp to build your fitness for a particular goal for the season. These are great for getting away from reality for a week or two and living how the professionals live – with no distractions away from cycling!

There are quite a few specific considerations when booking a training camp, so check out our guide to cycle training camps before you go any further. This interview about cycling camps in Spain (inc Girona) may also be useful – it includes a list of seven questions to ask before booking your cycling training camp accommodation.

Full-on relaxation

On the other hand, perhaps you’re after a break, free from the pressures of hardcore gradients, finish times and training goals. You want to ride for the sake of riding, to meet people, experience the culture, natural beauty and sights, rather than clock up the kilometres.

In this case, you’ll probably want to keep things simple and be based from one place, making sure to check the riding from that base is beautiful without being overly strenuous. Also have a good think about what activities the destination offers when you’re off the bike – whether that’s restaurants, beach based activities or historical monuments, chateaux and vineyards to visit when you’re off the bike.

4. When to go?

Factors to consider.

There are lots of factors to consider around the subject of the best time to go on your cycling holiday:

• When is the likely best weather in the destination?
• If you’re going somewhere mountainous, will the roads be open?
• Are you limited by school holidays? If not, you might want to avoid them!
• Are there any events at the destination that you either want to go to – or avoid!
• Are there any cheaper times of year to travel?
• Are you keen to stay in a particular hotel/town or eat somewhere particular? Bear in mind that many places close out of season, so check before you book!
• Do you want to go away during a popular holiday season? Take a look at these Christmas and New Year cycling holiday ideas.

Our destination guides contain an indicator of the best time of year to travel from a weather perspective, but the decision on what’s best for you will obviously be a very personal one. This article on best destinations in winter and cycling in Limassol Cyprus in winter may be useful.

Often watching or taking part in a cycling event can be an excellent reason to visit. We’ve got tons of inspiration for events to take part in. Check the events section above .

5. What kind of accommodation?

Bear in mind the kind of accommodation that’s available at the destination.Our pick of  Europe’s best cycling hotels could be a good place to start.

If you like 5 star luxury, you’re unlikely to find it in a small village on the side of a mountain in the French Pyrenees, the Alps or sun and sea destinations like Cyprus and Gran Canaria. But there are definitely some interesting options in places like Mallorca , Girona , Nice and further afield in the Seychelles . Even Tenerife has some excellent resorts that are great for a luxury cycling holiday. You’ll find our pick of the best hotels in those destinations if you click through to the destination guides.

Mid-range/budget

Alternatively, if your budget is more restricted, there are some great options by the sea in Spain: Calpe is well-known for its excellent rates out of season, as is the Costa Almeria and Costa Daurada . (As before, you’ll find our pick of the best hotels in those destinations if you click through to the destination guides.) Camping, motor-homing and local B&Bs can also be good budget-friendly options.

Family-friendly

We mentioned family-friendly cycling trips above – if you’re looking for places with good kids clubs that might allow you to sneak out for a few hours’ riding, check out the Club Med resorts in France. Also Club Le Manga in Spain has excellent kids sports facilities (this is the 5 star hotel , these are the 4 star apartments ). For more ideas take a look at this article best bike friendly hotels for families .

Part 2: Planning everything else for your cycling trip

6. cycling holiday travel insurance.

It’s not exciting, but insurance is an important part of holiday planning. It’s worth thinking about travel insurance and making sure you have it from the day you book; that way you’ll have the peace of mind of cancellation cover from day one.

It’s important to ensure your insurance covers the cycling you’re actually going to be doing on holiday.

Think about insurance not only for you if you get hurt, but also damage/loss to your bike and to other people caused by you. There’s also all the potential cancellation/delay situations you will need to think about too. Bear in mind that while you might have cover for some things in policies you already have, classic travel insurance often doesn’t cover all kinds of cycling at all altitudes – and cycling events are often outside the scope of normal cover too.

We’ve written this article on cycling travel insurance to give you some pointers.

Other (boring but important) things to check

We mentioned FCO advice and Brexit related issues above – but you should also check your passport is valid and the expiration date is at least six months after your final day of travel.

The effects of Brexit have also impacted the EHIC card, which granted you healthcare in the European Union. Instead, if your EHIC card has expired you must apply for a GHIC card. You can find out more on the NHS website, here .

Finally, also ensure you have the appropriate travel documentation (any necessary visas etc).

7. Whether to hire a bike?

The age-old question of whether to take your own bike or hire one there.

On one hand you’ve got the horror stories about airlines losing/breaking bikes when travellers have been flying with a bike, you’ve got the hassle of packing and unpacking it and getting a transfer vehicle big enough to fit the box. Plus the temptation to test ride a new bike on your trip.

On the other side of the argument, perhaps you want to ride your beautiful bike somewhere new and awesome, you’re wedded to your particular set-up (and power meter ) and the hire options aren’t great where you’re going…

There’s more to help you decide where to hire or whether flying with your bike is the best option for you in this article . If you decide to hire, it also covers what to check before marching out of the bike hire shop.

If you decide you want to take your own bike, this article will take you through the process.

8. What to take?

Top tip: allow enough time to pack, especially if this is your first trip. Also, don’t assume there’ll be shops where you’re going that will stock everything you need; the more remote you are and the more specific the thing is that’s broken or been forgotten, the less likely you’ll find it when you’re there!

Packing for a cycling trip does require a bit of thought – fortunately we’ve done this many, many times and we’ve written down our list of what to take to help you out. You can find our ultimate cycling packing list here , info on what to wear when it’s cold , together with reviews of some of our favourite kit.

If you’ve decided to take your bike, allow time to service it before you leave. There is nothing worse than arriving on holiday to find you’ve got to deal with bike mechanical problems… Also think about gearing – make sure you’ve got enough gears if you’re heading somewhere mountainous!

9. Do you need to train?

Have a careful think about your training well before you head off on holiday. After all, you want to enjoy yourself when you’re away!

So if you normally just do a few miles at the weekend, it’s worth doing a bit of training before you go away. Riding every day for a week, for hours and hours each day is very different to short Sunday morning rides at home.

Make sure your training matches the kind of terrain you’ll be riding. If you’re heading to the mountains, you may have to do repeated efforts up shorter local climbs to help you get ready.

Perhaps you need to consider some turbo training if the weather or terrain at home aren’t suited to you needs?

If you’re planning to ride every day on holiday, it’s a good idea to at least try out riding back to back days at home. That way you’ll know how your body will respond.

Make sure you train wearing the kit you’ll be wearing on holiday. That way you know it will work and be comfortable. Likewise, if you’re going to have panniers on board, make sure you’ve trained with your bike loaded up so you know your stuff fits in them, how to pack them, how the bike handles with weight and that they are fit for purpose!

For more information, check out our tips for preparing for long distance cycling and our specific training tips too.

10. What routes will you ride when you get there?

If you’ve opted for an organised trip, this is much less relevant. But, if you’re going DIY, it’s really important to think about what bike routes you’ll do before you arrive. Trying to sort bike rides and GPX routes out on a dodgy wifi connection in the hotel is not what you want to be doing on evening one of your trip…

We’ve got hundreds of tried and tested epic cycling routes in our destination guides; you can find all the cycling destination guides here , just click through to find our routes and GPX files.

If we haven’t (yet) covered your destination, make sure you read our in-depth article on cycling route planning . It contains all our best tips from years of practise.

We’d also just mention that Strava heatmap is a great resource for finding the most commonly used roads in the area you’re planning on riding in. It’s a really handy tool as a cycling trip planner. It’s updated using (anonymised) data from other riders, so you can see where people tend to go. If you’re looking for tips on how to plan a cycling route yourself, we’d also suggest looking on Google Streetview to make sure you don’t accidentally route down a track or private road – believe us, even the best routing apps in the world can fail on this one!

Finally, for each route you pick, you should also consider where you’ll stop for breaks and lunch (these cafes in London , Mallorca and Girona might be good to know about). You should also make a plan B in case you or someone in your group isn’t up to to the ride or has a mechanical.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re planning your first cycling holiday or you’ve completed a lot of cycle holidays abroad, whether you’re looking for an easy cycling holiday or a super challenging one, we hope these cycling holiday tips have helped you.

Feel free to explore the buttons below, which link to additional content on the points covered above.

Have a fantastic cycling trip and don’t forget to drop us an email or message on social media to tell us how you got on!

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Kate is a passionate cyclist who has explored the world by bike, including Europe, central America and South East Asia. Kate is a key member of the Epic Road Rides team; when she’s not busy commissioning articles for Epic Road Rides, you’ll find her busy writing and editing articles herself.

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So You Want to Plan a Cycling Vacation?

There are more cyclists on the road than ever before. here’s what you need to know before you roll..

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The Biking Boom

As we cycled through a year of pandemic living, one silver lining emerged: the freedom two wheels provided..

Sure, we might’ve been stuck in a world without travel, but a bike could offer fresh air, social distancing, and much-needed endorphins to ward off the pandemic blues (some of them, anyway). Suddenly, it seemed, everyone was buying a bike. Bike sales increased 200 percent in just the first few months of the pandemic, with “anything under $600 . . . just flying out,” Outside reported in January 2021. (Even more than a year after the first shelter-in-place orders were initiated, bikes, and bike parts, are still in short supply.) As we begin to emerge from our collective cocoons, interest in taking those bikes on longer journeys is also spiking—outfitters we interviewed are reporting record increases in cycling trips (and hiking trips, natch), especially U.S.- based routes.

This boom comes on the heels of more than three decades of investment in rails-to-trails throughout the United States, which means there are more possibilities than ever for multiday trips, whether you want to tackle a short overnight or a months-long, cross-country trail. Wondering where to start? You don’t have to be a spandex-clad, Tour de France type to enjoy the freedom of the open road. Here, everything to know about planning a cycling trip, whether you want to plan your own or turn over the reins, whether you’re a first-timer who wants to crash in cushy hotels or an experienced bike-packer looking for a new challenge.

How to Prep

Photo by David Marcu/Unsplash

First step? Just get out there.

It’s easy to fall into a rabbit hole of route planning and gear buying when it comes to bike touring. One thing all the experts agree on? Don’t overthink it.

You want to be adequately prepared—see below—and have a general sense of what you might encounter along the way, but “just taking that first multiday trip or even really long one-day ride will open up so much opportunity,” says Ted King , a retired pro cyclist. “It is a fun adventure just waiting to happen and you’re going to learn so quickly. Just start doing it.”

How do I decide on the trip and route that are right for me?

First, decide if you want to plan your own trip or if you’d like to join a guided trip. (If you’re interested in the latter, check out our guide to the best cycling outfitters .) If you want to go your own way, consider your fitness and experience levels, as well as the season and amount of time you want to devote to the trip.

Never done a multiday ride before? Start super small. Book a hotel or an Airbnb in a destination 10 to 20 miles away, pack a small bag, and cycle to your overnight .

Interested in camping—and therefore carrying the necessary gear (also known also bike-packing)? Or would you prefer to pack a little lighter and stay in hotels, inns, and Airbnbs along the way? If you’re not a camper, or don’t want to deal with carrying so much gear, choose a route that passes through more civilization. The Eastern Seaboard is a great place for this—especially Maine and Vermont—given the density, you can’t throw a bike shoe without hitting a cute little town with all the amenities you need. Socially inclined cyclists can also check out Warmshowers , a community of touring cyclists who act as hosts to other touring cyclists.

Rest days are crucial when bike-touring.

Photo by Sunrise Hunter/Shutterstock

How many miles a day should I ride?

Daily mileage depends on many factors, including your fitness and experience levels, the terrain (are there mad hills, or is it relatively flat?), and how much weight you’re carrying. If you’re new to bike touring, even if you’re a fairly experienced cyclist, consider trips that average no more than 30 to 40 miles per day so as to preserve your most critical resource: your body.

And don’t forget to take rest days! This is vacation, after all. In addition to giving your body—especially your legs—a break, rest days offer time to explore your destination, rather than just pedal past it. Park yourself in a campsite or hotel for a day or two and explore the city or town or take shorter daily rides.

“Distance is not as important as the journey,” says Analise Cleopatra, a filmmaker and relatively new mountain biker who made a documentary of her first bike-packing trip in 2019. “You don’t need to compete—just make sure you’re with people who are on the same wavelength and, you know, explore!”

How do I get my bike there?

Getting wheels where they need to go boils down to three options.

RENTING A BIKE This works well for first-timers, those who aren’t picky about their bikes, and/or those who choose a route in a cycling center such as Colorado or Northern California where there are high-end bike shops with decent rentals. It’s easier, too (no need to break down, ship, and rebuild your bike) though it can be more expensive. Rates vary, but a road bike rental can run you anywhere from $300 to $600 (or more) for a week in popular cycling states like California, Colorado, and Vermont.

SHIPPING YOUR BIKE This is the most popular option, currently, among cyclists we interviewed. BikeFlights has become the go-to company for all bikes, including e-bikes. Rates vary widely based on box size, weight, distance, and shipping speed, but if you shipped your bike from San Francisco to New York City, for example, in one of BikeFlights’ medium boxes, which fit most road and gravel bikes, you’d likely pay $83, excluding protection. (The company recommends buying protection to cover the market value of your bike.) You can also ship through Overnight Bikes , ShipBikes , as well as directly through FedEx and UPS, though you will likely pay more booking directly through the latter two.

The main challenge? You need to plan for this as it can take up to six days to ship a bike cross-country, though BikeFlights recommends building in extra time in the COVID era. Plus, you need to have somewhere to ship it. The pros recommend shipping your wheels to a bike shop in your destination (make sure you call to let them know in advance) and paying them to build your bike for you. Expect to pay at least $50 for this service. You can also take your wheels to a local bike shop and have them disassemble and pack it—BikeFlights can pick up directly from the shop.

FLYING WITH YOUR BIKE Alaska and Delta are among the most bike-friendly airlines. Alaska waives the oversize baggage fee and allows bikes to be checked as standard baggage . Delta also counts bikes as standard baggage . Southwest and United, however, charge higher fees: Southwest charges a bike fee of $75 each way , while JetBlue charges $100 each way, and United charges a flat bike fee of $150 each way for domestic flights. Keep in mind that e-bikes, which are powered by lithium batteries, are prohibited on all airlines.

Photo by Coen van de Broek/Unsplash

How should I train?

It depends on the length and nature of your trip. If you’re doing a short trip (less than three days) through terrain that’s not hugely demanding, there’s no need to map out an arduous training plan, pretrip. In fact, if you’re cycling regularly—at least two or three days a week—and can ride for an hour or more, you’re ready for a low-mileage overnight trip. In addition to building endurance, the most important thing to do is “condition” your butt to prevent saddle sore.

If you’re ramping up for a multiweek or multimonth trip that doesn’t take place on extreme terrain—and have been riding your bike regularly—you can use your trip to train, says Dan Meyer, deputy editor for Adventure Cyclist magazine. For example, ride 10 to 20 miles the first day and see how you feel. Ride 30 miles the next day and 35 to 40 the following day. “That requires some planning ahead of time to make sure that you have facilities and campsites and hotels that are at those distances along the way, ” Meyer says, “but it helps you get in shape more, instead of trying to go 80 miles on the first day and wearing yourself out.” (If you’re tackling an intense trail or just want more structure, Adventure Cycling has put together a 12-week training program .)

The more critical part of preparation is to understand how your bike handles when you’re carrying gear.

“A lot of people get to the start of their big route—this bike trip they’ve been dreaming of doing for years and they start pedaling and they’re like, ‘Holy crap, I’ve never ridden my bike with all this weight on it before,’ ” Meyer says.

He recommends practicing packing your bike , to make sure you’re packing efficiently, that the weight is balanced, and you can get to essential things (maps, food, water, etc.) quickly. Once you’ve done that, “take it out for a quick little 5- to 10-mile ride and just get used to how it handles, because it will handle quite a bit differently,” he says.

Essential Gear

Photo by Skylines/Shutterstock

Bike camping gear

Big Agnes Tiger Wall Bikepacking Tent The Big Agnes Tiger Wall tent is designed for bike-packing. Weighing in at just under three pounds, it’s super lightweight yet still provides protection and warmth when you’re out in the elements. The tent also includes tent poles that are shorter (12 inches) than normal, which makes them easier to attach to your handlebars, frame, or elsewhere on your bike. The stuff sack includes straps that are technically designed to attach to your handlebar bag, though using the recommended setup can be a little cramped on narrower, designed-for-women handlebars—most women should be able to move the poles to their frame.

It also includes loops to hang wet clothes on the outer rainfly, a generous vestibule area, and lots of pockets so you don’t have to sleep on top of your bike bags. Lastly, Big Agnes uses an ecofriendly dye process to reduce the amount of water that goes into making these tents.

>>>Buy now: $450 (two people), backcountry.com ; $499 (three people), backcountry.com

Snow Peak LiteMax Stove You have to pack light while bike-packing, which is why the compact, 1.9 ounce, Snow Peak LiteMax Stove is one of the best options for your bike-camping kitchen kit. It’s tiny but mighty and will last for years. Pair with an MSR Alpine StowAway pot (the stove fits inside even the smallest pot), a good knife, fuel, and a spork to complete your kit.

>>>Buy now: $60, amazon.com

Cotopaxi’s Bataan is an affordable fanny pack option.

Photo courtesy of Cotopaxi

Bags and carrying

Outer Shell bags The bike-obsessed team behind Outer Shell makes a variety of high-quality bike bags—handmade in San Francisco—for all types of cycling adventures, whether you’re roughing it on a backcountry gravel ride or trying to cart a bottle of pinot noir back to your hotel room after a day of riding in Napa. Almost all of its bags are designed to expand for optimal versatility and are either waterproof or water resistant.

For shorter rides, or for those who are embarking on a supported ride and don’t need to carry a lot, the Stem Caddy ($60) is a great choice. It can comfortably fit your phone, wallet, and all your essentials, or an entire bottle of wine. For longer rides or if you just want more space, Outer Shell’s seatpacks ($145–$150) can fit just about everything you’d need for an overnight. They’re also a nice alternative to panniers, since they won’t create an imbalance and can fit on any bike, no bike rack required.

>>>Buy now: Stem caddy, ($60 outershell.com ); Seatpacks ($145-$150, outershell.com )

Fanny/hip bag Skip the backpack (it’ll make you sweat like crazy) and, instead, use a fanny/hip bag while you ride (all the cool kids are doing it). Outer Shell has an excellent waterproof and expandable one, but I also like the compact Axis bag by Mission Workshop ($130, missionworkshop.com ), which was made with cyclists in mind. Cotopaxi’s Bataan ($30, cotopaxi.com ) is another, more affordable option, packed with organizational features and made from fabric remnants.

>>>Buy now: Cotopaxi Battan, ($30 cotopaxi.com ); Axis bag ($130, missionworkshop.com )

Photo courtesy of Velocio

Bike shorts by Velocio Padded bike shorts are essential on any long bike ride, but bike bibs—which are essentially padded, bike short “overalls” that don’t cut into your waist the way regular shorts would—are extra comfortable. There are tons of great brands in the world of cycling clothing, but Velocio is an AFAR favorite. Not only does it excel at making high-quality bike clothes with simple-yet-stylish designs, but its bike bibs also come with one crucial, lady-friendly feature: Its patent- pending FlyFree design means their bike bibs are stretchy enough to pull down for a pee-break, without having to remove your jersey, helmet, glasses . . . basically getting naked.

>>>Buy now: Signature Bike Short, $229, velocio.cc

Other great brands to check out for bike shorts, jerseys, and jackets include Machines for Freedom (ladies only), Castelli , and Rapha .

A bike computer is an essential part of a bike-touring.

A bike computer is an essential part of a bike-touring kit.

Photo by fotoliza/Shutterstock

Tools and other bike essentials

Paceline Products Chamois Butt’r Her’ There’s no way around it: If you’re spending several long days in the saddle, you need to take care of your butt. A good bike seat and shorts are the foundation of butt-on-bike-comfort, but consider packing some chamois cream, which soothes chaffed or irritated skin, as well. We like Butt’r Her’, a non-greasy formula made from natural ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter and designed and pH-balanced with female cyclists in mind.

>>>Buy now: $18, rei.com

Wahoo Elemnt Bolt bike computer One word: reliable. The Wahoo Elemnt Bolt is GPS-powered and can display maps for directions along with helpful data like the gradient of the road and weather and wind conditions. It has all the features to connect to your heart monitor and power meter, and it can sync with tracking apps like Strava so you can monitor your performance as well.

>>>Buy now: $230, backcountry.com

Bike tools (and skills) You’ll want to carry some basic tools and know how to change a tire and how to adjust your brakes. Park Tool makes a great hex wrench set and offers detailed videos on everything from how to change a tire to how to adjust your shifting.

>>>Buy now: Park hex wrench set, $24, backcountry.com

Bike pump When it comes to portable bike pumps, cyclists were once limited to CO2 or hand pumps. A CO2 pump is small, fast, and compact, but single use. (It uses a cartridge attached to the head of a small nozzle to quickly inflate a tire.) Though reliable and reusable, hand pumps can be a 15-minute arm workout as your friends wait impatiently for you, and they’re not as compact. But what about a hand pump that can also use a CO2 cartridge, offering both speed and reliability? Well, it’s 2021 and that now exists with a few brands.

>>>Buy now: Silca Tattico Mini Pump ($65, competitivecyclist.com ); PDW Ninja pump ($35, ridepdw.com )

Bike lights Although you may not be doing much riding after dark, lights can help you see and be seen—whether it’s on a foggy morning or helping drivers spot you as you move in and out of shadows. For lights, you want 500+ lumens for front and 50–100 lumens in the rear. Different blink patterns are a plus as well to help drivers see you.

>>>Buy now: Vis 360 Pro Helmet light by Light & Motion ($130, lightandmotion.com , rei.com ); Vis 1000 Trooper handlebar light by Light & Motion ($90, lightandmotion.com , amazon.com )

Snacks! A lot of new cyclists forget: You have to eat to avoid “bonking,” (the sudden loss of energy that can occur following a long ride). Pack an RX bar or two, or even a plain ol’ banana, to keep your energy up for several hours on the road.

Products we write about are independently vetted and recommended by our editors. AFAR may earn a commission if you buy through our links, which helps support our independent publication.

U.S. Routes

Great Divide photo by Jacinta Creten/Adventure Cycling Association

There are thousands upon thousands of bike trails in the United States with more, it seems, being added each year.

One big route in the works: The Great American Rail-Trail , which when completed, will stretch 3,700 miles from coast to coast. This list is by no means extensive—but it is a place to begin. For a look at more U.S. long-distance routes, check out the interactive map from Adventure Cycling Association, the 45-year-old organization responsible for some of the country’s greatest routes.

The Olympic Discovery Trail , Washington 130 miles

Washington’s Olympic Peninsula is the stuff of legends: Just west of Seattle, the stretch of land (home to Olympic National Park) offers quaint seaside towns, ethereal rain forest, waterfalls, and at the far western edge, the wild Pacific Ocean. On the 130-mile Olympic Discovery Trail—half of which is a dedicated multiuse path—cyclists can see, smell, and hear it all. The route begins in Port Townsend at the northeastern tip of the peninsula and ends at the coastal town of La Push. Camp or stay in lodges and hotels along the way.

Natchez Trace Parkway , Mississippi and Tennessee 444 miles

This National Park Service–designated trail stretches from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi, roughly tracing a 10,000-year-old route originally used by Native Americans (the path once connected the Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Natchez tribes). Travelers will pass through forests and farmland, witnessing creeks and numerous historical markers along the way. While cyclists do share the road with cars, speeds are low and traffic is relatively light. The route is great for cyclists looking for relatively flat terrain and cozy inns, but there are also more than a dozen campgrounds along the route, for those who prefer the freedom of a tent.

The Underground Railroad , Alabama to Ontario, Canada 1,997 miles

Beginning in Mobile, Alabama, and ending in Owen Sound, Ontario, the Underground Railroad follows the eponymous route used by freedom seekers from the late 18th century until the Civil War. Cyclists can tackle sections of the route or the entire length . The route traces rivers, winds through sleepy towns, and passes by numerous historical markers and sites that honor Black Americans’ struggles for freedom.

The Great Divide , Canada to New Mexico 2,696 miles

Don’t be alarmed by the sheer mileage of this route, which traces the Continental Divide and takes place primarily on dirt or gravel roads and trails—a playground for mountain bikers. Most cyclists tackle sections of the Great Divide, with the 700-mile Montana section among the most popular. Expect solitude, wildlife, and epic runs through pristine forest. Although the trail does pass through small towns, it’s best for those who are interested in camping for at least part of the route.

The East Coast Greenway , Maine to Florida 3,000 miles

Once the entire 3,000-mile route is completed, you’ll be able to hike or bike on protected paths through 15 states and 450 cities and towns, which is the entire point: to connect the nation’s “most populated corridor.” Launched by the nonprofit East Coast Greenway Alliance in 1991, the corridor is 35 percent complete , with 1,000 miles of protected paths between Maine and Florida. The remainder of the trail is on-road (so yes, you could complete the entire route now ). Some campgrounds are available, but the route is best for those who want to crash in hotels, motels, or in homes via Warmshowers.

The Southern Tier , California to Florida 3,022 miles

Tour the entirety of the southern section of the United States—passing through such states as Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida—or just tackle a section of the fascinating route. The Southern Tier begins in San Diego, winding through desert and the Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area, and ends in the 400-year-old town of St. Augustine, Florida. Ideal for those who prefer motels and hotels to camping.

Guided Trips

Photos courtesy of Backroads and Lamar Sellers/Shutterstock

For those who want the thrill of the open road without the headache of planning their own trip—and hauling their own gear—here are some of AFAR’s favorite cycling outfitters.

Many of these companies now offer e-bikes, making cycling tours more accessible

BACKROADS Berkeley-based Backroads has been leading fantastic small-group hiking, cycling, and other adventure-oriented tours since 1979. Cycling trips take place on custom-built titanium bikes, lodging ranges from small luxury ships (imagine cycling beside and sailing down the Danube ) to five-star hotels, and the food is as finely crafted as the routes. This year, watch for new U.S.-based trips like a five-day cycling tour of the Hudson River Valley, as well as weekend or long weekend getaways in Aspen’s glacial valleys and Texas Hill Country .

ADVENTURE CYCLING ASSOCIATION Long known for its stellar long-distance routes, the nonprofit Adventure Cycling Association , which began in 1976, is responsible for mapping out some of the country’s quintessential bike routes, including the 4,218-mile TransAmerica Trail . During the pandemic, the organization launched its Short Trips Initiative , a series of shorter guided trips in eight metropolitan areas, including Boston, San Francisco, Seattle, and Atlanta. Adventure Cycling expects to release route maps for self-guided versions of the tours in summer 2021.

VBT BICYCLING VACATIONS A two-time AFAR Travelers’ Awards winner , Vermont-based VBT Bicycling Vacations has crafted cycling trips for more than 50 years that include accommodations, luggage transfer, and most meals. It also offers self-guided trips. Pick from one of many New England–based tours or VBT’s national park tours, including a six-day Grand Teton and Yellowstone route .

WOMANTOURS Run by women and geared toward women, WomanTours has been leading cycling trips since 1995. Accommodations focus on smaller inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and in national parks, cabins and lodges. New U.S. routes include an eight-day tour of Alaska’s Inside Passage and a six-day tour of Oregon’s Roses, Rivers, and Rail Trails. Also new for 2021: a 25-day ride along section three (Kansas to Kentucky) of the cross-county TransAmerica route.

DUVINE With its focus on luxury and tapping into the local flavor of a destination, DuVine takes travelers into the heart of a place. The company’s trips range from those geared to avid cyclists looking for a new adventure to family-friendly to rides tailored to all ages. And, like many other outfitters, it offers several new domestic adventures, including a five-day art- and food-focused cycling tour of Santa Fe and Taos .

REI ADVENTURES Another AFAR Travelers’ Awards winner , REI Adventures recently discontinued its international trips to focus on building U.S.-based itineraries. No surprise, then, that the company will offer a bevy of national park trips with varied activities: rafting, kayaking, hiking, and yes, cycling. Cyclists, check out the new Joshua Tree weekend trip or a seven-day tour of Moab, Arches, and Grand Junction .

Notes From the Road

A little inspiration to hit the road, from those who have been there..

We spoke to variety of cyclists—from a relative newbie to people who make their living on two wheels—to share the wonders of exploring the world via your own power.

Photos by Alisa Geiser

Analise Cleopatra on the thrill of her first-ever bike-packing trip

“I’ve never done anything like that—I’d never even camped before that trip [along the Three Sisters, Three Rivers route in Oregon]. Just being out in the woods and open . . . you’re definitely at the mercy of the elements. But being there with Dej’uanae [Toliver], who I had known for a while, and Brooklyn [Bell, a pro mountain biker] who I had just met, definitely made a difference. I was anxious about ‘completing’ the ride, which is not something that I felt like I needed to do, but it felt like to some people the value of the ride was how far you could go. Later, I realized I’m not this person, I just want to bike and see these waterfalls and paint pictures and get to know these girls , you know? There’s so much elitism in the sport, but I think there’s definitely space for people who just want to explore and yes, challenge and push our bodies, but the point is not the pain.

“The terrain was very, very diverse the first couple of days. In the beginning, where we started near Caldera [Springs], it was very redwood-y with mulchy ground, but once we went past Suttle Lodge , it got really arid and there were a lot of dead trees. And then it got really lush around Big Lake. . . . Then it got very, very sandy. Once we got through the desert-like part, once we got to the Mackenzie River Trail it was so beautiful, just riverside the whole time. There were so many waterfalls. We [followed the Mackenzie River Trail] until we got to Oakridge and then there was a lot of climbing. That felt more hardcore: The last couple of days it was very rainy so it was pretty wet and muddy, which was fine—it was just a little cold and a little scary going downhill.

“[I have so much] gratitude for the opportunity to enter this world, because people don’t knowwhat they are missing out on. Hopefully the film inspires people who, like me, never would have gone camping by themselves. Find a buddy to go with and enter this world because it’s incredibly nourishing and healing just to be able to go out in nature to learn what your body is capable of and see the stars in their full capacity.”

Analise Cleopatra is a Florida-based filmmaker who made a documentary, Pedal Through, of her first-ever bike-packing trip in 2019 to inspire other newcomers to pick up a bike. Her next trip? The backroads of Georgia.

Photo by Mike Dicken/Adventure Cycling Association

Adventure Cycling Association’s Dan Meyer on the wildness of the Great Divide

“I’ve been dying to ride the entire Great Divide route for a while now, and I still hope to do it soon. A couple of years ago, I rode a [Montana] section of the Great Divide from Whitefish to Missoula. I did it by myself—it was a quick three-day thing. My now-wife and I had done a weekend loop north of Whitefish, and then she had to get back to work. She left me in Whitefish and I just rode myself back to Missoula. It was everything I was hoping for. It was gorgeous, it was quiet, there was nobody around. It’s just such beautiful terrain up there.

“You ride through a lot of dense forest on these rocky dirt roads—motorized vehicles are allowed but you don’t really see them for the most part. It’s just you spinning along, catching glimpses of wildlife. You get that nice, piney, fresh mountain air, you see a lot of alpine lakes and snow-covered peaks. I was going southbound and I did run into a few people riding northbound, but it was less than a handful. It’s the route for people who want to experience solitude in nature. There are other routes you can do where you’ll get to meet a lot of new people and have a lot of social interaction, but the Great Divide route, for the most part, is not going to be like that. It does pass through small towns and you’ll get to meet people in grocery stores and markets and campgrounds, but when you’re out on the road, it’s probably going to be just you, which I really enjoyed.”

Utah-based Dan Meyer, an avid mountain biker, is deputy editor of Adventure Cyclist magazine , published nine times a year as part of the nonprofit Adventure Cycling Association.

Photos by Rolf_52/Shutterstock and courtesy of Pete Stetina

Pro cyclist Pete Stetina on the beauty of Sonoma County’s endless backroads

“Sonoma County has a pretty storied cycling history. This is a place that a lot of the pro teams would have their early season camps in the earlier days. It’s unique because there are so many little backroads that twist and turn and snake—for every main artery that a lot of people drive to commute, there are four or five alternative options.

“As a pro, when I am here training, preparing for the world’s biggest races, I can pick and choose any direction pretty much and always keep it fresh. There are hundreds of thousands of possibilities. I can hit those rolling pastureland Petaluma hills toward the south and hit the coast. In West County you’re talking Jurassic Park–size redwood trees and ferns and just deep woods, moist redwood forest groves and then [you’ll reach] the coast. Up north, you even start to get into Lake County and that’s more like a dry alpine feeling, almost a Colorado feeling, with a lot more pine trees. Then you have all the vineyards and you have a whole big mountain range called the Mayacamas that borders Sonoma and Napa County [and it has] a bunch of huge climbs.

“If you are an advanced enough rider, one quintessential rugged Sonoma County route is the West County Highlight. It’s a very hard ride that includes some very tough climbs, [but also] some amazing vistas, some rugged backroads. You’re gonna hit every microclimate you can think of in one four- to five-hour ride. I’m talking urban and then redwoods and then riverfront and then coastal and then redwoods again and then oak forest, all of that. If you’re passing through the vineyards, a lot of the time, you’ll smell the fermentation, you’re going to smell the grapes being crushed and a little bit of that alcoholic perfume in the air and then you’re going to get into the redwoods and that deep mossy moist air. The coast is real stinky in a good way. And then there are all these little eclectic artist communities that have bakeries and coffee shops.

“There’s not a lot of fake [in Sonoma County]. Everyone’s kind of content doing them and you’re doing you and we’re a part of this community together, which is really nice. It’s definitely the people and the extracurricular possibilities outside of cycling that have kept me there and kept me happy. It’s one of the easiest places in the world to do my job.”

Pete Stetina is a pro cyclist based in Sonoma County who switched to gravel and adventure racing in 2019. In March 2021, he partnered with the Sonoma-based Piazza Hospitality to offer cycling packages to hotel guests at Hotel Healdsburg , h2hotel , and Harmon Guest House that range from customized routes to the Pro Cycling Experience package , which includes a private, guided ride with Pete. For each package booking, the partnership will provide a bicycle, helmet, lock, and (when they’re happening again) a bike camp adventure to an at-risk kid through the B-Rad Foundation , a Sonoma-based nonprofit.

Photo by Felix Lipov/Shutterstock

Pro cyclist Ted King on Vermont’s picturesque 200-on-100 route

“I’m in Vermont and there’s a cool route called the 200-on-100 and that refers to the 200 miles that spans the length of Vermont, from Canada to Massachusetts, and the route is entirely on Route 100. A lot of people will do it in one day . That said, it would also make for a really nice two-day trip or stretch it out and make it a three-day trip.

“At the beginning, you are literally at the Canadian border and that portion of Vermont is called the Northeast Kingdom. It’s just out there, it is rural, it is rolling pastureland, you can see mountains in the distance. The route is entirely paved and sort of inadvertently becomes a tour of Vermont’s ski towns. You’re going to go through Stowe and you go by Sugarbush and Mad River and you go right by Killington, you go by Mount Snow. It’s a relatively rolling route. There are no real extended climbs, except two, but over the course of a 200-mile ride they are relatively spread out.

“Detour off the route and find an Airbnb or a restaurant or brewery, all the things Vermont is well known for. . . . You’ll go directly by Lassen’s Finest Liquids in the town of Waitsfield, Vermont. Among beer nerds, their stuff is extraordinary. They’re a cycling friendly brewery and brewhouse—they just came out with Single Sip, [which is] absolutely delicious, and their double IPA is called Sip of Sunshine. It’s relatively early in the ride, so you might not want to have too much of that. But as you’re dividing [the route] up into a multiday trip, it might work out perfectly.”

Ted King is a retired pro cyclist who loves Vermont’s ubiquitous gravel roads. So much so that in 2019, he launched Rooted Vermont, a two-course (pick between 45 and 85 miles) ride, which is taking place for the second year from July 30 to August 1, 2021.

Jessie Beck contributed to the reporting of this story.

Bike Touring Essentials | Your Ultimate Bikepacking Gear Checklist

• Updated on: March 5, 2021

This article may contain affiliate.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

Bike touring is one of our favorite ways to explore a new country . Hitting the open road, breathing the fresh air, and viewing incredible scenery is a rush that’s hard to explain. We’ve had the lucky opportunity to complete bike tours in some of the most beautiful places on Earth and gained practice prepping for epic cycling adventures . 

Preparing for a cycling tour is no easy task , but we’ve learned which bikepacking gear is essential. From roadside tools to camping gear , we have a solid list of bike touring essentials we always pack. You may need to adjust your specific bikepacking gear based on the country you’re touring , but our guide covers the basics and a bit more. 

If you’re stuck on what gear, tools, or clothing to pack, refer to this ultimate bikepacking gear checklist . Many items have been lifesavers , and others made things easier on the road . When you’ve finished packing for your bike tour, check this list twice to make sure you’ve got all the bike touring essentials so you are ready for anything . 

Our Biking Background

Our first big cycling adventure was a 3-month cycling tour in Iceland . We tackled the Ring Road but also pushed ourselves in the harsh conditions of the Icelandic Highlands . Cycling in Iceland was TOUGH as we camped in the wild without a shower , filtered our own drinking water, packed food for 10 days, and even crossed FREEZING COLD glacial rivers . We had a terrifying moment where I almost drowned if Kelly had not paid close attention to save my ass. 

We also completed a 3-week cycling trip in Switzerland , and this bike tour was much easier. Roads were paved, modern campsites included warm showers, and we crossed several villages each day to buy food . Switzerland also had the luxury of trains if we didn’t feel like climbing a mountain pass. The scenery for this cycling tour was jaw-dropping, like Iceland , but didn’t have as many challenges. 

We always use Ortlieb panniers to pack our bikepacking gear, and these 100% waterproof bags are the best. They stored our cameras and laptops when crossing glacial rivers and survived unscathed. It’s one of our bike touring essentials for whichever country we decide to explore. 

When packing your bikepacking gear, these are the bike touring essentials you’ll need for any cycling tour .

1. Touring Bike

For the obvious, you want to pick out the touring bike that’s right for your specific needs . The key is selecting a bike that’s comfortable, reliable, and durable for long distances . You’ll also need to consider the road surfaces and the bike best fit for the terrain on your tour.

2. Water Bottles & Holders 

Staying hydrated on the road is crucial, and you always want water on you . If you’re cycling in desolate conditions, we recommend a filtered water bottle .

3. Panniers

These nifty bags attach to the front or rear racks of your bike and contain lots of storage space . Ortlieb panniers are the brand we recommend , but you’ll find cheaper alternatives. 

4. Head & Rear Light

You absolutely don’t want to be cycling at night without lights to guide you . This helps you spot road hazards and also lets other vehicles know you’re there . It’s also good to use the lights during the day, for extra visibility. 

5. Helmet 

This should be a no brainer. Safety first to protect your head if you tumble off your bike.

Also Read: The ultimate Swiss biking holiday guide

Repair Tools

Try not to go overboard with repair tools since packing too many items will add too much weight . A tube repair kit will usually do the job until you reach the next bicycle repair shop. But before starting your tour, give your bike a thorough inspection to ensure no repairs are needed. If you’re preparing to cycle rough terrain, we’ll list extra bike touring essentials you should consider packing.

6. Tube Repair Kit

An essential packing item for inner tube repair or patching a damaged bike tube .

7. Tire Levers

Makes removing and installing tires much easier without damaging your bike.

8. Mini Pump

A lifesaver when you need to inflate a flat tire .

9. Grease 

Helps reduce friction to keep your mechanical parts in working order. Before your cycling tour, ensure the grease is adequate for the specific weather conditions you’ll encounter.

10. Duct Tape

An alternative to patching an inner tube if you’re close to a repair shop. Duct tape can also be used for emergency rim tape, holding food packages together, or to temporarily repair broken gear .

11. Tie wraps

Comes in handy to fix a broken luggage rack for example. We would be in huuuuge troubles if we didn’t have some tie wraps with us while cycling in the middle of nowhere in the highlands of Iceland.

12. Bicycle Multitool 

A must-have that has all the needed tools to adjust or make repairs to mechanical parts on your bike . 

On-the-Bike Clothes

When you set off for your adventure, make sure you’re equipped with the following bikepacking clothing essentials .

When you set off for your adventure, make sure to add the following bikepacking gear to your bike touring clothing essentials .

13. Cycling trousers or shorts

Whether you prefer shorts or something longer, you want full freedom of movement on your bike . This will reduce friction and moisture while you’re on the road. Before your cycling tour, try many different styles to ensure you find the one that fits your body right .

14. Arm warmers

These come in handy to keep your arms warm and to protect your skin from sunlight . It’s easy to start your day when you might still feel a little cold. Usually, you warm up in just a couple of minutes , and it’s easy to ditch the arm warmers without having to stop to unzip your jacket or pull your hoodie over your head . 

15. Bicycle jersey

A quality cycling jersey helps you stay cool and comfortable on the road . The material absorbs sweat from your skin and moves it to the outer surface to keep you dry. This also helps you regulate your body temperature more efficiently.

16. Cycling shoes

Cycling shoes are designed with stiff soles to keep your feet rigid while pedaling. This increases efficiency by making it easier to push through each pedal stroke . You can also use click-system shoes for extra control while pushing through frequent climbs.

17. Waterproof jacket & pants 

Don’t let a sudden rain shower cancel a part of your cycling tour. With waterproof cycling clothes, you’ll remain dry and comfortable to face a light rain or downpour . Read our review of the Fjällräven Keb Eco Shell jacket to check out one of the top rated waterproof jackets. 

18. Waterproof shoe protectors 

If you want extra protection from the elements, waterproof shoe protectors keep your feet dry on the road . Cycling with soaked shoes feels disgusting and slipping on covers will protect you from the cold, rain, and wind .

19. Cycling gloves & socks

For extra warmth and comfort (and style), add gloves and socks to your list with bike touring essential.

Off-the-Bike Clothes

Here are some clothing recommendations when you hop off your bike for the day and do other activities .

20. Warm vest or sweater

After a long day of sweaty cycling, you want something dry that will keep you toasty at night . Make sure it protects you from wind and cooler temperatures you’ll often experience at night.

21. Relaxed trousers

If you’re not on your bike, then have spare trousers to give your legs a chance to breathe . It’s not healthy to wear tight-fitting clothing all the time . Depending on the weather, you can bring long, short or both types of trousers to relax after cycling.

22. Short & Long-Sleeve shirts

Similar to trousers, you want to pack clothes to give your upper body a chance to breathe . Loose-fitting t-shirts give you a chance to air out after wearing your cycling clothes all day. You can pack a variety of short and long-sleeve shirts based on the weather at your destination .

Pack enough pairs of socks to keep your feet dry when you’re finished cycling each day.

24. Warm hat

Bring a ski cap to keep your head and ears warm durings stops or while camping at night . Body heat escapes from your head , and a cozy hat will help you stay warm during rest breaks.

25. Swimwear

In case your destination has swimming holes, hot springs or simply a swimming pool , pack swimwear that’s ideal for a refreshing dip.

26. Comfy shoes

When you’re not cycling, give your feet a chance to stretch out with cozy sneakers . Your cycling shoes are specifically made to increase efficiency on the road and likely won’t provide comfort while walking around .

Also Read: The Greatest European Bike Tours of All Time

Camping Gear

When you’re cross-country cycling, don’t expect to find cozy hotels everywhere on your route. Even if there are hotels, they may not have space to accommodate you or your touring bike and gear . That’s why we prefer camping and include these bikepacking camping items in our list with bike touring essentials.

27. Lightweight Tent with Vestibules

Pack a tent that doesn’t weigh you down on the road and keeps your stuff dry at night.

28. Sleeping Pad/Bag

Keep yourself warm and comfortable each night to ensure you’re well-rested for the next day of cycling.

29. Cooking Utensils 

A must-have when your bike tour ventures into desolate conditions where you’re far from shops for several days. Check out our camping cooking equipment post for recommended supplies.

30. Headtorch

Have one handy to guide you whenever walking around your campsite at night . 

Miscellaneous

Although a few of these items aren’t specifically related to bike touring, they’re still essential for general travel . There are some that you can’t travel abroad without and others that come in handy while on the road .

31. Passport

If you’re cycling tour is within a different country, this should be the #1 item on your bike touring essentials list .

In case you run into trouble, it’s always wise to have spare money on you . Make sure you have cash in the country’s currency and credit cards that function abroad .

33. Lightweight Towel

Especially when you go camping this is a must-have on your packing list. Lightweight towels pack small, dry quickly and are obviously very lightweight! 

34. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is vital for skin protection when you’re cycling in areas of intense heat, high altitude, or even in the snow. 

35. Sunglasses

You want to protect your eyes from sunlight and ensure you’re not visually impaired on the road . If you wear glasses, investing in prescription sunglasses is an alternative to contacts and regular sunglasses.

36. Toiletries

To freshen up each night, bring essential toiletry items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, contact lenses, hand sanitizer, etc.

37. Underwear

It may sound obvious but don’t forget to pack clean, dry underwear to change into after a sweaty day of cycling.

38. Camera & SD Cards

If you plan on taking pictures, find a safe storage spot for your camera and SD cards . The countries we’ve completed cycling tours had unbelievable scenery , and we captured tons of gorgeous shots on each adventure .

39. Spare Food

Always have spare food packed in your bag for an energy boost . Even if it’s just a few protein bars, you never know when extra food might come in handy .

Things to Keep in Mind

Now that we’ve gone through the bikepacking gear basics, here are other important things to consider for your bike tour .

• Pack as lightly as possible – This naturally makes cycling easier and lessens the stress placed on your body. You’ll exert more energy with extra weight and spend more time reaching each destination. If you’re in doubt about a particular item, don’t bring it on your cycling tour . You could always purchase that item during your trip in the worst-case scenario. 
• Check your destination’s weather and road conditions – As your cycling tour approaches, stay updated on the daily weather forecast for your destination. Some countries have unpredictable weather patterns , and you want to prepare yourself for all road conditions. Whether you face rain, snow, or shine , make sure you’re able to adjust your bike gear or clothing.
• Consider the time of year – The specific season you choose to travel will determine what type of bike touring gear you need. Some cyclists prefer cooler seasons , and others like hot, humid conditions . Whichever season is your preference, this will alter the bike gear, clothing, and camping gear you’ll need .

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We love to hear from you

Thanks for checking out our ultimate bikepacking gear checklist with bike touring essentials you need on any cycling trip. Hopefully, this has provided the information you need to start packing for your adventurous cycling tour . If you have bike tour experiences, or if you have other tips to recommend, please leave a comment below .

Don’t forget to check out our destination pages for other ideas when you cycle around spectacular locations across the globe. For more travel tips and inspiration, check out more of our travel tips . 

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2 thoughts on “Bike Touring Essentials | Your Ultimate Bikepacking Gear Checklist”

A good list that will help people with little experience. Personally, I much prefer platform pedals. Semi open shoe for warmer weather, and low ankle boots for the cold. I highly discourage cycling shoes for rough roads that have steep inclines, like so many in Tasmania. If I happen to stall on a steep accent, I can’t get out of the clips fast enough and fall over Also, I would include in the list something which is often not mentioned – keeping ones arse clean After a poop, I wash. Nothing worse than having skid marks on the chamy I use Chamois skin shorts for my long distance trips, not the synthetic ones ☺

Thanks for pointing out that we should pick the right cycling shoes that will keep our feet rigid while pedaling. I will keep that in mind now that I plan to book a bike tour for my husband and I this coming August. We should use the right shoes to ensure that we won’t be in any accident for this tour in celebration of our anniversary.

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Preparing for a cycling vacation: Tips and top travel destinations

For serious cyclists, summer is prime time to enjoy a holiday in the saddle. Whether you’ve got a cycling trip coming up, or are still in the planning stages, we’ve put together some travel tips to help ensure you and your group enjoy your rides to the fullest!

A cycling vacation can be a thrilling adventure, offering the chance to explore new landscapes, challenge yourself physically, and immerse yourself in different cultures. For avid cyclists, destinations like the French Alps, the Dolomites in Italy , California's Pacific Coast Highway , the Spanish island of Mallorca , and New Zealand are among the most popular options.

Whether you’re self-planning a cycling trip or working with a travel agency, proper preparation is key to ensuring a fun, memorable (and safe ) experience.

With that in mind, we’ve put together some essential tips to help you get ready for your cycling vacation. And if you’re still in the planning stages, down below, we’ve included some bucket-list-worthy hotspots you should consider.

Physical preparation for your cycling holiday

It goes without saying that, to make the most of your cycling vacation, physical preparation is key. Begin a training regime well in advance of your trip to strengthen your legs and build endurance. (Not to mention getting your rear end reacquainted with time in the saddle!)

An indoor cycling app like ROUVY is an excellent tool to use when prepping for your trip. Having the ability to ride indoors offers the flexibility to train regardless of weather conditions or time constraints. This allows you to maintain a consistent training schedule, which is crucial for building fitness.

Climbing and interval training are essential components of preparing for a cycling holiday, especially if your destination includes hilly or mountainous terrain. ROUVY lets you select real routes that match the gradients of the routes on your itinerary, helping you build leg strength and the endurance needed for long ascents. Additionally, interval training sessions on the app can improve your power and cardiovascular fitness, making you more versatile and resilient. (Take a minute and check out “How To Climb Like A Pro Cyclist,” by Robbie Ferri , an ultra cyclist.)

Beyond the countless real routes on ROUVY , the app’s workouts and structured training plans designed by pros, performance tracking, and engaging features provide a comprehensive and effective way to build both fitness and confidence.

One cool thing about cycling workouts on ROUVY is that they’re done on real routes, so you can simultaneously train for and preview some of the rides you and your group will be doing on your trip.

ROUVY workouts to build endurance: Increase your riding distances gradually to build stamina. Aim for long rides on weekends and shorter, more intense sessions during the week. Recommended workouts: SURGE ENDURANCE | PUNCHEUR'S PLAN , ENDURANCE BUILD UP and HILLY ENDURANCE

ROUVY workouts to improve your climbing: Incorporate hill training and interval sessions to improve your climbing ability and overall power. Recommended workouts: ATTACK TO THE CLIMB | CLIMBER'S PLAN , MOUNTAIN TIME TRIAL and TORQUE ENHANCER | CLIMBER'S PLAN

TRAINING PLANS DESIGNED BY THE PROS

Andy schleck training plan.

2010 Tour de France winner Andy Schleck put together a plan to help cyclists ”build a bionic body and be ready for any physical challenge.” Includes La Vuelta stages.

JoSÉ Hermida Training plan

Designed by José Hermida of Spain, a silver medal winner at the 2004 Olympics, this plan will boost your overall fitness with two sessions per week over a six-week period.

Lidl-Trek training plan

Lidl-Trek's plans were designed by UCI pros to improve explosiveness, strength and speed. The intense sprint drills in the first workout offer a taste of what's in store.

Off-bike physical prep

Off the bike, low-impact exercises like yoga or Pilates can be great for firming up your core strength and flexibility, which are vital for maintaining proper posture and preventing injuries. Also consider strength training in the gym, combined with a regimen of stretching.

Misc. cycling-vacation tips

Before you travel, make sure your bike is in perfect condition. Take it to a professional mechanic for a complete tune-up. Be sure he or she checks the brakes, gears, and tyres. You should also make sure the bike you intend to take is a perfect fit for your body. A properly fitted bike is important for comfort, safety, performance optimisation and good aerodynamics.

Other things to consider:

Check your spare parts and tools – Be sure your emergency kit includes essential spare parts such as inner tubes, a chain link, and brake pads, as well as tools like a Leatherman multi-tool, tire levers, and, of course, a quality pump.

Comfort – Ensure your bike is comfortable for long rides. Consider upgrading your saddle and/or investing in padded shorts.

Pack smart – You’ll need to balance between being well prepared and travelling light. Pack moisture-wicking, breathable cycling jerseys and shorts, and don’t forget a rain jacket, arm and leg warmers, and gloves.

Hydration and nutrition – Bring water bottles and a hydration pack. Pack energy bars, gels, and snacks to maintain your energy level. Also, consider taking along supplements for endurance .

Navigation and safety gear – Carry a GPS device, maps, and a power bank to ensure your devices remain fully charged. Also, bring a first-aid kit and any necessary medications.

Choosing your next cycling holiday destination

Before embarking on your cycling vacation, research various destinations to find the one that best matches the skill level and interests of everyone in your group.

When planning your rides, consider daily distances, elevation changes, and the locations of accommodations and rest stops. Using GPS devices or apps like Strava can help in mapping out your journey and keeping you on track.

With an abundance of iconic routes in cycling hotspots around the world, ROUVY is a great way to decide which routes in any given destination will work best for your group. By riding routes from home, you can familiarize yourself with the terrain and elevation profiles of your upcoming vacation destination. For example, if you’re planning to cycle in the French Alps, you can pre-ride several routes beforehand in order to experience the climbs and descents. This virtual exposure helps you mentally and physically prepare for the actual conditions you’ll face.

Here are just a few of the bucket-list-worthy cycling destinations around the world that are well represented on ROUVY. (For a more in-depth look at the most popular cycling holiday destinations, be sure to read article TOP 10 cycling holiday destinations for which you can prepare on ROUVY by ROUVY expert Lauren Wolff.)

Cycling vacation hotspot: The French Alps – A bucket-list destination for avid cyclists due to the stunning mountain scenery, challenging climbs, and famous routes like Alpe d'Huez and Col du Galibier, the French Alps offer diverse terrain and breathtaking views.

Three iconic routes in the French Alps: ALPE D'HUEZ | FRANCE , LACETS DE MONTVERNIER - CHAUSSY | FRANCE , COL DU TELEGRAPH - GALIBIER | FRANCE

Cycling vacation hotspot: Mallorca, Spain – Mallorca’s a perennial favourite for its diverse terrain, scenic coastal roads and mild climate. The island offers challenging climbs, such as Sa Calobra , and routes through picturesque villages making it an ideal spot for both challenging and leisurely rides.

Three iconic routes on Mallorca: CAP DE FORMENTOR | MALLORCA , PUIG MAJOR - MALLORCA , CHALLENGE PEGUERA MALLORCA | SPAIN

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Cycling vacation hotspot: The Dolomites in Italy – In addition to being a noted skiing destination in the winter, the snaking, scenic alpine roads in the area make the Dolomites in northeastern Italy a Mecca for avid cyclists.

Three iconic routes in the Dolomites: PEDALITALY PASSO PORDOI - DOLOMITES - ITALY , SELLA RONDA | ITALY , CAMPOLONGO-PORDOI-SELLA-GARDENA

Cycling vacation hotspot: California’s Pacific Coast Highway – The PCH is great for avid cyclists due to its scenic ocean views, diverse landscapes, and mild climate. The route offers challenging climbs, coastal breezes, and iconic landmarks like Big Sur, making it perfect for cyclists seeking both adventure and natural beauty.

Three iconic routes along the California coast: PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY NO2. | CALIFORNIA | USA , PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY | USA , REDWOOD HIGHWAY | CALIFORNIA | USA

Cycling vacation hotspot: New Zealand – With its diverse landscapes, from stunning coastlines to rugged mountains, New Zealand has long been a popular choice for serious cyclists. Here, you’ll find challenging routes, and breathtaking scenery on iconic rides like the Otago Central Rail Trail.

Three iconic routes in New Zealand: LAKE PUKAKI | NEW ZEALAND , ARTHUR'S PASS NATIONAL PARK | NEW ZEALAND , DUNEDIN | WORLDS STEEPEST STREET | NEW ZEALAND

Time to hit the road!

Following these tips will hopefully have you well prepared for an unforgettable cycling vacation. Whether you’re navigating mountain roads in France or Italy, or pedalling along the coast of California or New Zealand, the right preparation will help you make the most of your adventure.

One last thing! When you return from your trip, check in on the ROUVY Athletes | Cycling group on Facebook or the ROUVY club on Strava and let us know how it went!

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Bikepacking

Biking Across America: 9 Essential Tips From a Woman Who’s Done It Twice

Maybe you’re thinking: “Would it be totally nuts to ride a bicycle across America?! Coast to coast, thousands of miles, the whole shebang? Is this delightfully crazy idea a real possibility?”

It’s a bold idea to be sure, but not unreasonable. Many of us have made the journey, and many more continue to dream about it. With a bit of planning and preparation, anyone can bike across America.

In 2019 I made my own cross-country journey , still a highlight of my bike travel résumé. In 2021 I set out again traveling south to north , border-to-border between Mexico and Canada, for a more wild and rugged journey along the continental divide. I’m a born-and-raised Californian, and I absorbed more of my country during these summer journeys than I had in my whole life prior.

If you’re in the planning stages of a cross-country bike adventure, or even if the idea is just starting to tickle your fancy, these important tips – based on my own experience and that of other cross-country cyclists – will get you one step closer to making it happen.

And you definitely should make it happen.

Choose Your Route Carefully

America, as you may know, is a really big place. There isn’t just one bike route across America ; there are nearly infinitely many! Of course, some routes are better than others due to traffic and road conditions, and a few are well-traveled classics. The best route for you will depend on which season you’re able to ride in, what kinds of terrain you want to experience, whether you like pavement or gravel, and how comfortable you are riding in traffic.

Any discussion of bike routes across America has to start with the Adventure Cycling Association. They’ve developed an incredible network of routes offering the security and community of bike-friendly businesses, top-notch maps, and well-trodden (well-pedaled?) paths.

The ACA has developed three coast-to-coast routes:

TransAmerica Bike Route : This one is the classic, and also the longest established route across the US.

Northern Tier : Similar in length to the TransAm, this route stays north instead of veering south at the Rockies.

Southern Tier : This route is the shortest coast to coast option, and also the most practical to ride in shoulder seasons and winter.

Those three ACA routes are classics and many cyclists successfully make the journeys every year. However, increasingly busy roads have led some folks to look for routes with less exposure to traffic. If keeping traffic-related risk low is a top priority for you, consider these alternatives:

Bike Nonstop US : This route was first created for a self-supported race in 2019, with the goal of crossing the US using as many miles of rail trails and backroads as possible. About one third of the 3500 miles are on gravel. This is the route I followed on my own cross-country journey , and I do recommend it. It’s lower-traffic than the alternatives for sure, but there is still plenty of vehicular road riding to contend with.

Great American Rail Trail : Before you get too excited, know that this amazing idea is still an unfinished project. The Bike Nonstop route above uses some of the finished portions, or you can link them up on your own. For now, use it as inspiration for your own routes, or follow along and even donate to the cause at railstotrails.org .

TransAmerica Trail (TAT) – off-road version : This route (no relation to the ACA pavement touring route of the same name) was designed for off-pavement motorbike riders, but a few hardy bikepackers do take it on. It’s a challenging route and should only be considered by mountain bikers and bikepackers comfortable on rugged unpaved roads in remote areas.

North / South Routes

When most people think of biking across America, they’re thinking east / west. But America has a few thousand miles between its northern and southern borders too! Here are some routes to consider if you want to bike across the country in the north/south direction.

Paved, west coast : Sierra Cascades and Pacific Coast

Paved, east coast : Atlantic Coast

Mostly unpaved, Rocky Mountains and western US : Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and its newer and less-traveled cousin, the Western Wildlands Route .

Designing Your Own Route

Can you create your own route? Certainly! You can link together parts of the above established routes with your own creative connections, or even design your own route from scratch.

Options will depend on where you are. If you want to bike across Wyoming on paved roads, you’ll be riding the highway for quite awhile. In Illinois, by contrast, you can hopscotch along a grid of agricultural roads adjusting your route as you go. In general there are fewer route options west of the Rockies, and once you choose one it will be harder to reroute.

The biggest challenge will be figuring out which roads are safe and legal for bicycles. Though America has many roads that are lovely for biking, we also have many that are narrow, shoulderless, and clogged with fast traffic. Many of the big interstate freeways are legally off-limits to bikes, and they would be miserable places to ride anyway. When designing your own route, you’ll need to plan ahead in order to avoid cornering yourself in a place that’s hard to safely bike out of.

Apps like Komoot and Google Maps’ bicycle mode can be very helpful. You might occasionally need to hitchhike or hop on a local bus to bypass a sketchy section of road. But if you’re looking for truly unstructured, nomadic, pedal-powered adventure, designing your own route can be very rewarding.

To read trip journals from cyclists who’ve ridden these routes and others, see the United States section of BikeSleepBike .

Read more: How to Choose Your Bike Route Across the US

Choose Your Season Carefully

With America’s geographic diversity comes an incredible diversity of climates. You’ll need to pair your chosen route with its best riding season, or risk snowstorms and road closures in the mountains or dangerously sweltering temperatures in the deserts.

Research each route to find its most critical areas. As a general rule, major mountain ranges like the Rockies and Sierra Nevada are best crossed in summer when roads are open and snow-free. Low-elevation deserts of the southwest are best in spring and fall, and can be intolerably hot in the summer. Harder to predict is the increasing problem of “fire season,” which can close roads and blanket parts of the western US in a smoky haze during late summer.

Since a full cross-country journey takes most people several months, plan your start date so that you’ll hit the critical sections – high mountain passes, for example – at the best time.

Unpaved routes like the Great Divide require even more care than paved routes when choosing a riding season, as small backroads are more likely to become impassible in bad weather.

Prepare for Challenging Weather

Even when you’ve chosen the ideal timing window to cycle across the US, it’s no guarantee of perfect weather! During a single month in mid-summer I experienced snow in Wyoming, thunderstorms in Iowa, intense wind in Nebraska, and impassible flooding in Indiana. At a minimum you’ll need a rain jacket and pants, warm layers and gloves, and weather-proof camping gear.

When the storms do roll in, don’t hesitate to hole up in a cafe or your tent until the worst passes. Heavy rain can be dangerous for cyclists since drivers can’t see as well, and electrical storms in high or exposed places pose a risk of lightning strikes.

Prioritize Traffic Safety

As someone who’s traveled by bicycle on six continents, I hope you’ll listen when I say to take traffic safety very seriously when biking across the US. Though some areas have made progress with shoulders, bike lanes, and those reassuring “share the road” signs, most roads in the US remain the undisputed territory of cars and trucks. Unlike the roads I’ve cycled in Sudan or Vietnam, for example, most American drivers do not expect or have much patience for small, slow-moving objects on “their” roads.

If you want to bicycle in the US, you’ll need some safety gear and at least moderate comfort with road riding. Here’s what I recommend to help you stay safe:

• Don’t just be visible, be unmissable . High-visibility flags and vests, reflective patches, and multiple flashing tail lights are all great. Here’s more detail about my favorite cycling safety gear.
• A helmet mirror (I love this one from Bike Peddler ) is essential in my opinion.
• A clear and confident riding style goes a long way. These tips will help.

At the same time, consideration goes both ways. Drivers never have a right to endanger cyclists’ lives, but they do have a right to be annoyed when we unnecessarily get in their way. Ride single file on busy roads to show respect to drivers, and hopefully drivers will show respect to us in return.

Understand Camping Options

Camping is a central feature of bicycle travel, and on a multi-month trip it’s a critical part of keeping costs under control. Ease of camping in the US varies widely from place to place. Some rural regions are a free camping paradise, but there are also many populated areas where you won’t feel comfortable or welcome just pitching your tent anywhere you please.

Depending on where you are, camping options might include:

• Established campgrounds: pay a fee and get access to amenities like bathrooms and sometimes showers. Reservations sometimes required in advance.
• Primitive campgrounds: often found in the Rockies and westward, these primitive sites may or may not have bathrooms or water.
• Dispersed / wild camping: in National Forests and land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, again often in the western US, you can camp wherever you like as long as you leave no trace .
• RV parks: in small towns sometimes the RV park is happy to have bicycle travelers pitch a tent for the night
• Town parks: In small towns, especially along well-established routes, you may be able to pitch your tent at the town park. Ask first if you’re not sure.
• Small town generosity: In very small towns with no formal camping options, show up in the late afternoon and you’re unlikely to be turned away. Ask around and you may be directed to set up behind the school, church, general store, or in someone’s backyard.

Camping on private land without permission is illegal and frowned upon in the US, so use care when selecting stealth campsites. For more detail on these and other options, see where to sleep while bike touring in the US .

Appreciate Local Hosts

For cyclists eager to spend time with locals while also keeping costs down, staying with local hosts is an ideal option.

Warmshowers.org has a huge network of hosts in the US. These people generously open their homes or backyards to traveling cyclists in hopes of meeting cool people and hearing stories from the road. The only downside: you’ll need to coordinate a few days in advance with most hosts, so it helps to be on a predictable schedule.

Less formally, you may occasionally be offered a backyard to camp in or even a cozy room. It’s best to not rely on or expect the hospitality of strangers, but when it happens, enjoy the experience.

Think Through Your Budget

Biking across the US can be expensive if you’re not concerned about keeping costs down, but it’s definitely doable on a smaller budget too. The difference is mostly where you sleep, and to some extent where you buy your food.

The high end: If you spend every single night of a two-month trip in an average-priced motel (assuming you can find one where you need it each night, which isn’t a given), you could easily spend $4000 on lodging alone. Multiple restaurant meals each day could add another $2000. You’d be looking at $6000 or more!

The low end: If you manage to camp for free or cheap (say averaging $5 per night), and buy food in bulk from grocery stores, you could theoretically squeak by on around $2000 for two months. This will be challenging, especially in areas with few wild camping opportunities, and will limit the indulgences you can enjoy after a hard day of pedaling. You’ll be eating a lot of ramen and peanut butter, and skipping the burgers and beer.

To save money, seek out free or cheap camping opportunities and stay with WarmShowers hosts in larger cities. Buy food at grocery stores and cook at camp, instead of eating restaurant meals and stopping for snacks at every convenience store.

Make Time For Conversations

All the best memories from my cross-country ride involve people I met along the way: the dad and his son who fed me s’mores around their campfire; the woman who sat down next to me at the gas station to chat; the group of motorcyclists who invited me to join them for lunch.

Compared to many other countries, the roads of America can feel lonely. Instead of children running behind your bike, shopkeepers waving from open stalls, and drivers pulling over to chat, you’ll mostly find enclosed vehicles and enclosed buildings, the boxes inside which we Americans spend most of our time. Besides a few encouraging waves from behind windshields, Americans tend to respect a traveler’s right to continue on their way undisturbed.

Stop at a roadside cafe though, or pop into a gas station for a cold drink, and it’s a different story. You may have to tear yourself away if you ever want to reach the end of your route!

When you bicycle across the United States, you experience this diverse and complicated place in all its glory and challenges. You’ll come face to face with people of different races, cultures, lifestyles, and political beliefs. You’ll see firsthand the inequalities of city neighborhoods, homeless populations, and racially divided communities. You’ll talk to people who, on the face of it, lead very different lives from you.

But thanks to the magic vulnerability of showing up on a bicycle, you’ll bring out the best and most generous in the people you meet, building a path to connect across your differences. For me at least, those insights live on long after the pedaling is finished.

Common Questions

If you’re more of a skimmer, here are quick answers to some of the most common questions about bicycling across the United States.

Motor vehicles are the biggest danger to cyclists riding across the US. Choose a route that matches your comfort level with vehicular cycling, and make yourself unmissable by riding with excessive amounts of bright clothing, reflectors, and lights. Some visitors from other countries worry about gun violence in America. While sporadic incidents do unfortunately happen, as an American myself I can say the odds of a cyclist being involved are very, very low. Use common sense when riding through big cities to avoid potential higher-crime areas, but otherwise expect to have as trouble-free a trip as you would anywhere else.

This depends on when you’re able to ride, what types of places you want to experience, and how comfortable you are riding with traffic. See the Choose Your Route section above for detailed ideas including the iconic TransAmerica route, the lower-traffic Bike Nonstop US route, and a number of others.

Depends on who owns the land. If you’re lucky enough to be riding through public land like National Forests, especially common in the western states, you can legally camp where you like as long as you pick up after yourself and leave no trace . On other types of public land you may need to stay at designated campgrounds. Sometimes businesses in small towns will allow you to camp on their property if you ask first. If land is fenced or signed as private, it’s not legal to camp there, and you shouldn’t do so without first getting permission.

Depends on how fast you ride! A few people do it in a couple weeks while racing the TransAmerica Bike Race, but they are crazy. Most people will take between 2-4 months depending on route and pace. The Southern Tier is the shortest coast-to-coast route at just over 3000 miles, while the TransAm is the longest established route at over 4200 miles. A reasonable touring pace might be 50-70 miles per day, but this depends on terrain, fitness, and the mood you want for your trip. Do the math for your specific route.

Cost varies widely based on how you travel. If you camp and use Warmshowers often, and choose your food carefully, you might be able to squeak by for $2000 or less for a two month trip. If you stay in hotels and eat at restaurants often, the same two month trip could cost $6000 or more. The longer your trip, obviously, the more it will cost.

More Bike Touring Resources

If you’re thinking about biking across the US, I hope you’ll go for it! You might also find these helpful:

• Bikepacking and Touring Food Ideas
• Panniers vs. Bikepacking Bags
• Essential Tools and Spares Checklist for Bike Touring

Or, check out the complete bike touring and backpacking resources page.

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve traveled over 20,000 miles by bike and still can’t stop planning my next ride (and helping you plan yours). Pavement and panniers or singletrack and seat bag, I love it all. On my bike I feel free. Learn more about me here .

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1 thought on “Biking Across America: 9 Essential Tips From a Woman Who’s Done It Twice”

Helpful article. Wish I would have seen something like this a few years ago. I did the Trans America about 7 years ago. Loved seeing small town America and the backroads scenery. Didn’t enjoy people honking at me in Missouri or dogs chasing me in Kentucky. Overall met many kind, friendly people and enjoyed myself immensely. Thanks for your articles, you are a wonderful resource.

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12 Unforgettable Vacations That Are Best Done by Bike — Even for Beginner Cyclists

Discover these epic bicycle tours from Croatia to Chile.

There’s no better way to see the world than on two wheels.

You don’t have to be a Tour de France rider to enjoy a long, scenic cycle, either. Everywhere in the world — from the United States to France to Japan — you’ll find excellent bike tours that cater to beginners.

Cycling has been a favorite pastime for people around the globe since the 19th century. The bicycle was invented by Karl Freiherr von Drais in Germany; it was a rather cumbersome “running machine” that didn’t involve pedals, steering, or brakes. When the “modern” safety bicycle was invented by John Kemp Starley in England, it allowed for a free, stable ride — and just like that, cycling started to become a beloved hobby.

Today, along with hiking, mountain climbing, and camping, cycling is one of the most popular outdoor activities for travelers. There are many excellent biking destinations that are perfect for cyclists young and old, experienced and inexperienced. You can take a ride through the mountains in Switzerland or even hop from island to island in the Philippines, Japan, or Croatia with your bike in tow. Ahead, find beautiful biking destinations to plan your vacation around.

Puglia, Italy

In Puglia there are numerous bike tours where you can set your own pace based on your cycling experience and trip type. There’s truly something for everyone — from beginners to advanced cyclists. Give yourself about 10 days to cycle as much of the heel of Italy's boot as possible, patching together an epic route out of country roads and uncongested coastal trails. Along the way, you'll pass through villages, along olive orchards, and by UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Many cyclists start among the historic surrounds of Sassi di Matera and pedal towards the coast.

Burgundy and Champagne, France

Sign us up for a trip that involves some easy-going cycling, then rewarded with delicious wine. This region of France is famous for its grapes and cuisine, but it’s also a wonderful place to take in the fresh air and pedal your way through the countryside. Paved and dirt cycle paths cut through sprawling vineyards from Reims, aka "the gateway to Champagne. They wind across Épernay and to the start of the Canal entre Champagne et Bourgogne, which will lead you into the heart of Burgundy. Go ahead and stop at a few vineyards to sample wines along the way; it’s highly encouraged.

Connemara, Ireland

You can see the best of the Emerald Isle by taking one of the many guided or self-guided bike tours in this western region of Ireland. The Connemara Lazy Days tour is particularly popular for beginner cyclists who want a good ride without too much effort. The route loops around part of the Renvyle peninsula, the scenic moorlands and heather-cloaked hills of the Inagh Valley, and fishing villages, typically starting and ending in Clifden, a market town on the coast. The tour entails traveling short distances by bike while enjoying the region’s culture and attractions.

Land’s End, United Kingdom

Cycling from Land’s End in Cornwall, England, to John o’ Groats in Scotland is a classic ride that’s probably for a slightly more experienced rider but makes for an excellent trip nonetheless. This scenic, 1,000-mile trip typically takes between two and three weeks and you’ll see some of the very best United Kingdom vistas along the way. Highlights of the journey include cycling through the beautiful Cheddar Gorge (birthplace of the cheese), numerous castles and abbeys, and city stops in Bristol, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

Lake Constance, Austria

You can actually start a bicycle tour around Lake Constance from either Austria, Germany, or Switzerland, depending on your preference. This massive lake isn’t just beautiful, but it also makes for a highly customizable ride. You can break up the trip into challenging long rides or several short days with stops in the many beautiful lakeside towns. This route, comprised of both paved cycle paths and quiet roads, is easy and flat. You'll get epic mountain views, though, thanks to its proximity to the Alps.

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

If you’re not into going long distances, try an island-hopping cycling tour where you pedal across the land, then take a boat to the next isle to do it all again. Start in Split or Dubrovnik and pedal your way through the old cities, then hop over to Hvar, Brač, or Korčula. Croatia also has the 100-mile Ćiro trail that connects the country and nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina, if you’re looking for more of a challenge.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for a cyclist’s paradise, look no further than Amsterdam. The bike-friendly city has always been welcoming to car-free living, so even the most inexperienced of cyclists can get around easily on two wheels. Of course, since many locals commute by bike, be sure to stay out of the way if you’re in the mood for a slow, scenic ride. Or, better yet, take a guided tour with a local who will take you for a drink at the pub and show you museums along the way.

Colchagua Valley, Chile

Cycling and wine tasting isn’t just for the French. This beautiful region of Chile is also famous for its wines and is an excellent spot for cyclists to take a leisurely, scenic ride with stops for vino along the way. Depending on the kind of vacation you want, you can opt for a more active bike ride or plan for a few short stints that allow for extra wine tasting. There are a few different routes you can take out into the grapevine-covered countryside, mostly following roads, but Santa Cruz is a good place to start no matter which way you go.

Palisade, Colorado

If you haven’t been to the Fruit and Wine Byway , now’s your chance to start planning a trip. The beautiful, 25-mile East Orchard Mesa Loop, one of three planned routes along the byway, through Colorado’s little-known wine country and peach groves might be the best late-summer excursion any cyclist could plan. Travel through the fragrant orchards and lavender fields and breeze along the legendary Colorado River, stopping frequently at tasting rooms on the route.

Travelers Rest, South Carolina

Travelers Rest is becoming a go-to place for cycling enthusiasts to visit (and to live). The Blue Ridge Mountains offer the perfect challenge for advanced bike lovers, but there are also some short and relatively flat trails that are simple enough for even the novice rider to enjoy. There are dozens of routes to pick from, from multi-use greenways to bike-friendly roads that will put you in the vicinity of vineyards, boutique hotels, quaint towns, and lots of cultural points of interest.

Onomichi, Japan

Starting in Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture, you can take the path of the Shimanami Kaidō (also known as the Nishiseto Expressway), which connects the city with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture. This 40-mile road in western Japan traverses ocean straits on colossal bridges that connect some of the Geiyo Islands. It was built with cyclists in mind, thanks to segregated cycling and pedestrian lanes.

Visayas Islands, The Philippines

The islands of Cebu, Bohol, Negros, Guimaras, and Panay are all easy places to use two-wheeled transportation to see some incredible sights. Bike tours along the coastlines are some of the area’s most popular excursions, especially since the roads are paved and fairly flat. For the full tour, island hop by ferry with your bike in tow.

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Six things I’ve learned while travelling with a bike

Some thoughts on my luck making it to multiple destinations, and back, with a functioning bike

Right now, in the middle of winter, many of us are either looking to get somewhere warmer right away, or dreaming of summer holidays. As you consider these plans, you are probably thinking about what it takes to bring your bike with you. As with anything, travelling with a bike gets easier the more you've done it and, at this point, I've done it a lot. 

Although I’ve done it a lot now, for most of my life I never travelled with a bike. I either took a break when I travelled or I borrowed a bike from a friend. If I'm being completely honest one of the reasons is that I was kind of scared to do it. These days though, it's not really an option to leave a bike at home. I make my way across the country, or world, to report on new experiences and I need a bike with me. It's given me the opportunity to test some of the best bike travel cases but it's also given me an opportunity to pick up some tips. It turns out that it's really not so complicated. I missed out on a lot of adventures because I was too nervous. Now I'm hoping to share some ideas and encourage you to bring your bike next time you travel. Keep reading to see some of what I've learned as I've travelled with my bike. 

1. Use a tracking device 

For the last few years, you've likely been reading about people who know without a doubt exactly where their luggage is. The airlines might not know where it is but the customers do and it's all because of an Apple Airtag. How many times do you need to read that story before you decide to add one of those devices to your must have travel accessories? For me the tipping point was watching US airline Southwest completely melt down during the Christmas 2022 holiday. With stacks of luggage all over the country and general pandemonium, I knew it was time to stop procrastinating and grab a tracker. 

Without diving too deep into the mechanics of it, Airtags are the most well-known option. They connect to any iPhone and they leverage that network connection to report their location. If you don't have an iPhone then you can't use one. Apple didn't invent the system though. Tile came before, and they still exist. Given that I use an Android phone I grabbed a Tile and had it set up within five minutes. 

When it was time to fly, I dropped the Tile tracker into the bag with my bike before heading to the airport. The moment I was away from the bag, I started checking. I found it wouldn't always give an exact location but it was more than good enough to show that my bike was on my plane and had made it to the next stop. As I was waiting at the oversize bag collection in the next airport I could always see that the bike was somewhere in the airport. I was able to relax even if it took a bit longer for my bike to come out. 

If you want more exact tracking, especially in remote locations, another option is the Invoxia GPS Tracker. Unlike a Bluetooth tracker, there is a yearly service cost, but that’s because it has its own cellular connectivity. It doesn’t matter if someone with a phone is around to connect with your tracker and the location is exact. It’s on our list of the Best bike GPS trackers and it’s something I’ll be playing with next time I fly. 

2. Practice with your chosen bike case ahead of time

I beg you, do not wait until late the night before your flight to pack your bike for the first time. The first time you try and pack a bike, it takes forever. The second time it takes only a few minutes in most cases, but that first time it could easily take two hours. Not only will you have to figure out the particulars of the case but you'll have to figure out the particulars of your bike. Best case scenario you'll have it take a few hours and require a few consultations with YouTube, or a review, but I've seen a lot worse. 

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Typically, you can expect to take off the pedals, saddle, and handlebars. If it's been a long time since that stuff has come off, it's entirely possible something won't budge. I recently saw a string of tweets from a person who waited until the last minute only to find seized pedals. They were lucky enough to manage packing the bike with the pedal attached to deal with it on the other end. Do yourself a favour though and save the stress. Practice makes perfect after all.

3. Bring the tools you need

When you take the bike apart and pack it up, keep track of the tools you need. Those tools should come with you. This is particularly important if you are travelling with power pedals that use a pedal wrench instead of a hex wrench for installation and removal. When I travel for bike events there are often actual bike mechanics on the other end and even then, pedal wrenches are a rare sight. That's just one example though, you will also want to remember to bring a torque wrench, a set of hex wrenches, and the correct tools for disc brakes if you have them. 

Even if you are doing some kind of organised event that promises to have everything, bring it with you anyway. If you get lucky and they have everything then great, but if there's something missing you won't waste time hunting for it. You might also find that having everything with you allows you to set your bike up yourself and be out riding while others are waiting for help and tools. 

Also keep in mind that you don't need full-size workshop tools. The hex wrench set could be whatever you normally carry with you on rides. For me, that means a Fix-It-Sticks Ratcheting T-Way Wrench is the main tool I have. Then for the pedal wrench I carry a Park Tool DCW-2 Double-Sided Cone Wrench. I do go for full size options for the centre lock disc rotors and the torque wrench but there are options out there if you want to optimise more than me. 

4.  Take things off even if it seems unnecessary 

One detail you might have noticed above is that I bring a full-size tool to remove the brake rotors. You absolutely don't have to remove the rotors when travelling, in fact I've gotten away without doing it in the past, but you should. In fact, that's my next tip. Just because you don't have to remove something doesn't mean you shouldn't. Disc rotors don't take long to remove and it doesn't hurt anything but if you leave them on and they get bent, it's a huge hassle. 

If you've heard you should remove something, just go ahead and do it. Take the small amount of time upfront to remove things rather than deal with a mishap. The rotos are a pretty obvious one but I also recommend removing the rear derailleur. I make that recommendation even if you've got a bike case that promises to protect it. It's incredibly simple to do and it ensures no issues. Some of the other pieces worth removing are any kind of computer mount and, if it's simple, I'd suggest pulling the derailleur hanger as well. 

5. Expect TSA to open your case 

If you are travelling in the US, the TSA will open your bike case. This is more of a reminder than a tip but it leads to some tips. They will open it every single time and often they will not put it back together the way that you had it. You should expect this. 

The case I travel with the most is the Topeak PakGo X . It's a hard case that has a workstand which attaches in the centre. Every single flight I've taken with it, TSA has disconnected the workstand from the spine and left it that way. It also has straps that clip together and hold the bike from moving around. Last time I travelled I had them unclip those and, once again, leave it like that.

Most bike bags fly as oversized baggage. That means they are too big to fit through the scanners for luggage and it means that TSA will check them by hand. They open the case and they swab for explosives. When I've seen them do it, they tend to look for any zippers and swab those. Regardless though, it will happen and they will not put things back. 

That means you should over protect the bike for this eventuality. Use foam padding across as much of the frame as possible. Make sure the derailleur is in a bag and unable to float free in the larger bag. Mostly, don't expect that because everything was working the way you packed it that it will stay in that configuration.   

6. Carry your helmet and shoes with you but not your tools 

If you are following the advice here, you'll have a tracker in the bike bag. That means you won't have a lost bike but it doesn't mean you won't have a delayed bike. If you have your helmet, shoes, and pedals with you then you might be able to figure something out while you work on getting reunited with your bike. 

That's only half the reason though. The other is the part where TSA will open your bag and do a bad job putting it back together. You are just as likely to have your shoes floating within the case potentially scratching the frame, as anything else. Plus, Helmets are single use and should not be in a position to get bounced around in luggage. Pack your helmet in carry on and make sure it's protected. 

As you are taking things out of the bag and simplifying your case for TSA, don't go overboard. Tools are a no-go for carry on and that goes for your small pieces as well. Anything bigger is probably pretty obvious but I've also run into trouble with smaller things. Small wrenches for pedals tend to get measured even when obviously small enough to meet the rules and bike pumps are often an issue. 

In fact, bike pumps are specifically listed as okay to bring on board and should be a non-issue. Despite that, I've almost lost my mini-pump multiple times. I've had to take it apart to make it smaller, I've had lectures about how it's not allowed, and I've also had it go through with no issues. It's completely luck of the draw and if I'm travelling with a checked bag it's always easier to just check that stuff. 

Now that you’ve read through these tips, keep in mind it’s not as hard as it seems. I’ve managed to take multiple bikes all over the country and world and the worst I’ve seen was a mangled hanger on a friend’s bike. Even in that situation, a trip to a local bike shop got her sorted enough to manage. Things can sometimes go wrong but usually they don’t. Get out and enjoy the amazing locations this great world has to offer. 

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Josh hails from the Pacific Northwest of the United States but would prefer riding through the desert than the rain. He will happily talk for hours about the minutiae of cycling tech but also has an understanding that most people just want things to work. He is a road cyclist at heart and doesn't care much if those roads are paved, dirt, or digital. Although he rarely races, if you ask him to ride from sunrise to sunset the answer will be yes. Height: 5'9" Weight: 140 lb. Rides: Salsa Warbird, Cannondale CAAD9, Enve Melee, Look 795 Blade RS, Priority Continuum Onyx

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