A lot goes into planning cycling holidays. Cyclists who haven’t yet had the pleasure of taking such a trip likely aren’t sure what they should be bringing or how they should prepare. Those who have been on one of these epic adventures before, however, have a lot of great advice about what you need and what you don’t need for your trip. The first and most important tip:
1. You Don’t Need Lots of Money
Those wanting to tour on their bicycle are often under the misconception that they need lots of money to do so.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to be rich to enjoy a cycling tour. In fact, a cycling holiday can be incredibly cost effective while still not needing to cut back and cut costs on things that you really want to do.
- Packing a banana, some bread and peanut butter is far less expensive than eating out at a restaurant (though do have an allowance in your budget for indulging in local cuisine – you won’t regret it!)
- Camping is far less expensive than hotels (save the hotel stays for days when you have had a long ride and when a shower and comfortable bed will be most appreciated)
- Choose the right tour company
Cyclists, particularly those who have not toured before, often find it beneficial to travel with a small group of experienced travellers. The tips and tricks that you’ll learn on that one trip will be beneficial for future cycling tours abroad.
2. You Don’t Need an Expensive “Touring” Bike
Consider this: people have been riding their bikes for hundreds of mile for decades. Many of these bikes were not state-of-the-art touring bikes, but rather were simple bikes that were in “fair” shape.
Nothing is wrong with having a strong frame and some brand new tires to enjoy you ride, but they aren’t a necessity. As long as you have a bike which makes you feel safe, comfortable and is able to manage your load, you’re good to go. Just be sure to have your bike checked and tuned up if necessary.
3. You Don’t Need To Know Everything about Bike Repair
If you’re touring with a group, then it is especially true. Knowing a few things is important – such as how to repair a tire – but otherwise you will likely be able to take advantage of online tutorials or a handful of knowledgeable cyclists will be able to help you out.
As a bonus tip: Many bike shops will gladly show you how to perform quick repairs on you bike for free. Don’t be shy – stop by and ask!
4. You Don’t Need Cleats and Clip-In Pedals
A lot of cyclists that you’ll run into on a cycling holiday will have cleats and clip-in pedals. While some may prefer to us these, they are expensive and, for most, an unnecessary expense. They also take some getting used to, so you may be finding yourself falling over a lot when you first put them on. Unless you are absolutely serious about cycling, skip the cleats and clip-ins.
5. You Don’t Need a Solar Charger
Tech gadgets are always fun to play around with, but they are by no means necessary for your holiday. No matter where you are, there will likely be an available power outlet. Can’t find one? Then ask for one. Many establishments will gladly plug your mobile phone in while you stop by for some refreshments or to do some laundry.
6. You Don’t Need Tons of Clothing
Articles of clothing will take up the bulk of your precious storage space, so choose wisely. In this situation, it may be a good idea to invest in higher quality clothing that will give you the same level of warmth and wind protection as larger, bulkier items. Look for items that:
- Are able to wick sweat away from the body
- Are made of wool (wool keeps your body cool in the summer and warm in the winter)
- Are able to easily be rolled and unrolled without becoming wrinkled
Every town you stop in will likely have laundry services. A little bit of money being spent on laundry rather than hauling a heavy pack is worth the expense.
7. You Don’t Need Tons of Cooking Supplies
Look for multi-functional items that have at least two uses. A cooking pot, for example, can double up as your bowl and as a supply holder. Your plate can transform into a cutting board. Plastic containers can also transform into bowls and plates while also allowing you to store extra food to snack on later. Space is at a premium when you travel on you bike, so plan carefully.
8. You Don’t Need Beauty Supplies
Leave the hair dryer, the make-up and other vanity items at home. When you’re on the road, you will hardly care about what you look like. You will be far too busy taking in the gorgeous scenery that surrounds you.
What you will want to be sure to pack with you is:
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Moisturiser (the wind while riding and gripping your bike all day can dry out your skin)
- Razor (though many will consider this optional)
9. You Don’t Need To Be Extremely Fit
A cycling holiday doesn’t require that the cyclist be in fantastic shape. Of course, a cyclist should do his or her research when plotting the course and understand the challenges he or she may face during the ride (steep hills, long uphill climbs, off-road areas and so on). But this doesn’t mean that you need to spend months in advance training at the gym to enjoy your holiday. Take it day by day. Understand your physical limits and tempt the idea of pushing them just a little bit. Travelling for 10 miles a day can be done by almost anyone, and 20 miles for someone of average fitness isn’t a major stretch.
