Beginner’s Guide to Bicycle Touring

If you enjoy riding a bicycle and travelling, then you are already well on your way to becoming an avid two-wheeled traveller. Life in the slow lane is a perfect way to see the world. It gives you freedom, adventure, slow travel, and discovery. It can be a great way to decompress from the busy world we live and help us notice our surroundings more. It is not uncommon to overlook the world when we travel by faster modes of transport - the world rushes past in a blur as we head towards the next stop. With cycling, every turn of the pedals brings you closer to the sights, sounds, and people along the way.

With all that being said, if the thought of bicycle travel sends you into a panic, because you think it involves cycling ridiculously long distances and slumming it in a tent, hostel, or some shabby hotel, then think again. Whilst all of those options are possible, everything from distance, route and levels of comfort are within your control – it is a personal choice based on our individual wants and needs.  So don’t let any pre-conceived ideas put you off – you can still live like a king or queen on the road!

What is Bicycle Touring

Put simply: exploring anywhere by bicycle - whether it is a day trip or multi-year adventure. Overly complicated definitions are confusing, so I like to keep it simple. Think of somewhere to go (ideally a new area), pack a bag or two, have a rough plan of what you want to see (no pressure with this – deciding on the road creates a real time adventure), set a date, and then get going. Make sure you stick to the date!  Anything you think you missed can be sorted as you cycle - that is half the fun.

Don't fall into this trap!

Overthinking leads to over-planning, which in my experience equals to a substandard, overly scripted, trip. Yes, have an idea, but go with the flow and see where the road takes you. This approach often means meeting interesting people and having those serendipitous moments.

And avoid this debate - it really doesn't matter!

Bicycle touring vs bikepacking – many debates have been had on this subject, but fundamentally, they’re the same thing. Bicycle travel. End of story in my opinion.

But if I had to break it down

• Bikepacking often means more off-road adventures, using smaller frame bags or bags attached to the seat post. It’s usually a more minimalist setup.
• Bicycle touring often means panniers to transport your gear (generally more home comforts), riding mainly along roads.

The Basics

The Bicycle

Any comfortable bicycle will do! I mean this. Make sure you test it on a long ride before you head off touring. As long as you find it comfortable and meets your needs for carrying kit, then don’t let the want for some expensive dream machine to hold you back. My first touring bicycle was a mountain bike conversion. I still have it and use it – it is comfortable, so I don’t see the need to upgrade. READ ABOUT IT  My other bicycle is an everyday road bike that I use for shorter trips with bikepacking bags – perfect for quick 1 -2 night trips or if I’m not carry camping gear.

The Bags

Bag wise – work out how you want to deal with accommodation. Obviously if camping is on the agenda then all that kit needs storing somewhere. If you want to cook your own food, then a stove and basic utensils will be required. There are so many manufacturers these days, so look around and get something that fits your bicycle. It can be trial and error until you get it right.

For longer trips, I use rear panniers to carry all the items I think I need. I always leave a little space for when I do a supermarket dash. If you are on a limited budget, do take a look on the second hand market – social media sites can be good to pick up bargains.

The Mindset - just do it

My first trip to France was a weekend mini trip with a large rucksack of 'stuff' and an old tent strapped to a rear rack. It was a bit uncomfortable on my back, but it was really all I needed to get the touring bug. I was determined to get out there after thinking about it for far too long.  The feeling you get as your bicycle starts moving is fantastic - I liken it to my childhood getting a new bicycle for my birthday!

The Kit

Ultimately it is down to what you think you need on top of the very basic clothing, bicycle toolkit & spares, and hygiene items. For me, I would never be without a head torch, camping knife, battery pack, wipes, sun cream, stove, pan & pot for cooking, and coffee press.  I add/remove items depending on weather, destination, and accommodation.  It has taken me a number of trips to know what I want, which has meant carrying many things up steep hills that I never used!

So, work out what works for you and add kit as you need it.  A good example is, you might not want to cook your own food at first, but you as you get more experienced, you want to go for longer - that obviously costs more money, so you decide to invest in a stove and some cooking kit.  For me, it was about coffee stops in beautiful countryside locations - getting a stove out and sitting down to soak it all up is one of my favourite things to do.

Common Mistakes (we all make!)

• Packing too much and never using it
• Overplanning the route and itineary
• Rushing  – focusing on reaching the destination rather than enjoying each moment
• Poor bicycle fit
• Wrong clothing - especially for bad weather
• Neglecting bike maintence before leaving
• Spending too much money early on
• Taking untested gear
• Neglecting rest days on longer trips
• Unrealistic daily mileage - putting yourself under pressure
• Not drinking or eating enough

Planning your first Bicycle Tour

So, you want to give Bicycle Touring a go.  An idea has been bubbling for a while, and you decide to go for it.  Remember to not over think this.  Here are some basic guidelines to get you off to a good start for the first time

• Consider making the trip during warmer, non-winter months. It means carrying less clothing and reduces clothing mistakes.  
• Make sure your bicycle is comfortable and make sure there are no faults. Go on a couple hours ride and make sure you and the bicycle are happy. This is so important!
• Pack light – take the essentials. So many times I have looked in my panners and wondered why I thought it was a good idea to bring some additional cooking gear just in case I need it. Or the extra clothing just in case I go somewhere. Really challenge every item.
• Have a realistic budget based on your level of comfort – accommodation is the big one here.  Also, have backup funds, like a credit card for emergencies.
• Have an idea of where you want to go, but don’t lock down every turn into a GPS - let your brain decide in the moment. Just think about a destination and fill in the gaps.
• Test your setup.  Pack everything up and head out on a little trip for the day.  It will flush out any bicycle, kit, and fitness issues.  Although don't worry too much about fitness - keep the mileage low and build - fitness builds fast.
• Tell someone where you are going.
• Have fun!

Summary

Bicycle touring isn’t about having the perfect bike or kit. It’s about just getting out there and giving it a try. Start small, keep things simple, and learn as you go. You’ll soon find that every trip brings new experiences and memories that stay with you long after the ride.

The freedom of the road, the slower pace, and the unexpected moments are what make touring so special. Set yourself a date, pack what you’ve got, and roll out the door. The rest will take care of itself once you’re riding.