My introduction to the world of bike touring began with Alastair Humphreys’ captivating book, Moods of Future Joy. He recounted the initial leg of his ambitious four-year global journey, cycling from his English home to Cape Town, South Africa. His incredible story ignited my own dreams of worldwide bicycle adventures, but there were a couple of hitches: my camping experience was non-existent, and my longest bike ride was just a few miles.
I was completely drawn to the romantic idea of setting off from my doorstep on a bicycle and exploring distant lands. However, the logistics of traveling thousands of miles with only bike-carried essentials seemed impossible. Eventually, I learned that not every bike tour needs to be an epic expedition. Even a short weekend getaway can be a refreshing escape from the everyday grind. In fact, each mini bike tour I take only strengthens my desire for a full-blown round-the-world trip.
Years of bike-focused trips and vacations have taught me that planning a bike tour doesn’t need to be overwhelming. If you’re in the same starting position I was, you’re likely closer to your first adventure than you realize. Check out this video for some inspiration.
There are several key gear categories and considerations, all interconnected and influencing your trip. I visualize it like this:
Your Bicycle (and Helmet – Safety First!)
The good news is, almost any bicycle can be used for bike touring. However, the suitability depends on the type of tour you’re planning. For instance, tackling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route on a road bike isn’t ideal, though I wouldn’t be surprised if someone has attempted it!
Two inspiring examples of cyclists making bike touring work with unconventional equipment are Ryan van Duzer’s cross-America trip on a three-speed bike and Ed Pratt’s global unicycle journey on a fixed-drive unicycle. Both adventures are well-documented on YouTube. While I don’t know them personally, I imagine they adapted their routes to their bicycles’ limitations. You can apply the same principle to your own bike tour planning.
How to Use the Bike You Have for Touring
If you’re new to cycling or considering buying a bike, countless online resources and reviews are available. If you’re on a budget or testing the waters of bike touring, prioritize a bicycle in good working condition with at least 10 gears, rear rack eyelets, and rim or disc brakes. After a few tours, you’ll better understand your priorities and budget, and you’ll feel more confident when making a significant bike purchase.
Shelter Options for Bike Touring
Your choice of accommodation significantly impacts the gear you’ll need to carry. If camping is new to you, consider a trip staying with family, friends, or in hostels, hotels, or vacation rentals. What’s Your Touring Style?
One of my favorite weekend bike tours was visiting my grandfather in Los Angeles, about 100 miles from home. I only carried a backpack with water and essentials. The ride was far more enjoyable than driving and gave us a great conversation starter upon arrival.
Starting with a similar tour eliminates the need to worry about tents, sleeping pads, and sleeping bags, and other camping-related decisions.
You can gradually progress to remote camping, perhaps starting with car camping or a backyard tent night.
Food and Fueling Your Ride
I have a friend who started marathon running just to indulge in unlimited eating. I found it amusing until I experienced a long bike tour and realized the sheer volume of calories needed. Some of those eating habits lingered even when I wasn’t cycling daily! But bike touring is more than just calorie replacement.
Beyond the physical fuel, there’s a significant mental aspect. On a recent tour, I underestimated the effort to climb back over mountains separating me from home. I became incredibly negative, even considering hitchhiking. However, after lunch in a small mountain town, my mood completely shifted, and the joy of the trip returned.
Hunger on a bike tour can impair decision-making, especially if you have health conditions affected by low blood sugar. Prioritize consistent fueling.
The Beauty of Cold, Fast Touring Meals
Water: Hydration is Key
Running water is a modern luxury we often take for granted, especially until we miscalculate our needs on a bike tour and face the panic of a leaking bottle. After a few close calls, I always carry extra water, despite the added weight.
Dehydration is serious, potentially leading to organ failure and even death. Running out of water in remote areas is a challenging situation.
Most sources recommend one liter (32 ounces) of water per 1-2 hours of moderate activity in moderate climates. Increase intake at higher altitudes, in hot weather, or during intense exertion. In populated areas with potable water access, refilling is easy. However, touring in arid climates requires carrying enough water for extended periods. Plan your water strategy carefully.
Miscellaneous Essentials for Bike Touring
Many other items are essential, similar to any trip: clothing, toiletries, medications, books, a journal, etc. Some bicycle-specific items are crucial for longer rides. I never leave without a multi-tool with a chain breaker, spare inner tube, patch kit, and pump. Flat tires, chain issues, loose bolts, and brake problems are common mechanical failures that can leave you stranded, but they are relatively easy to fix roadside with basic tools and knowledge. Learning basic bike maintenance is a valuable skill for any cyclist, especially for bike touring.
Baggage Solutions for Your Bike
Once you’ve compiled your gear list, you need to transport it. A backpack is the simplest and cheapest starting point. However, backpacking, especially with heavy gear, water, and food, can become uncomfortable on a bike.
I find it much more comfortable to transfer weight from my back to the bicycle. Investing in a rear rack and waterproof panniers is a great next step for most baggage needs. Beyond that, numerous bag options and attachment methods are available for further research and customization as you gain experience.
Route Planning: Your Adventure Roadmap
Planning an overnight bike tour to a nearby city differs significantly from a multi-day trip through remote areas like the Sonoran Desert. Route planning impacts all other planning aspects, including road choices and access to assistance.
I’ve planned many routes using smartphone mapping apps. The bicycle option generally works, but sometimes suggests busy roads with poor cycling infrastructure. Alternatively, numerous online routes are thoroughly vetted by experienced bike tourers and offer safer, more enjoyable options.
How to Create Your Own Touring Route
Adventure Cycling’s epic routes across the US are incredibly well-designed, researched, and updated. If you’re in the US, a route likely passes near you. Consider a one or two-day segment for a shorter trip. Adventure Cycling also offers Short Routes specifically for weekend excursions.
Putting It All Together: Start Your Bike Touring Journey
I hope this guide inspires you to plan your first bike tour based on your available gear and comfort level. The most crucial step is to start with a manageable tour and gradually progress to more complex, self-supported adventures. After a few trips, you’ll feel more confident about cycling from home to explore the world. Happy pedaling!
