Blog

Bike Friendly Travel Basics

Biking trips are growing in popularity for people of all ages, and it is not just adventure cyclists and fitness enthusiasts opting for bike friendly travel. Large families, young adults, and retirees are planning entire vacations around their love of bike riding. Here are a few basics for anyone curious about making travel plans with biking in mind:

• Fitness Check: This might seem like a no brainer, but you’ll want to ensure your physical fitness matches the level of excursion. A breathtaking bike ride through hills and valleys may sound great, but you’ll need to build stamina prior to the trip to ensure you’re in shape for the ride.
• Seasonal Planning: Consider the weather and outdoor conditions prior to booking any biking trip, as rain, snow, and other elements can ruin your plans. Ideally, choose a time when scenery is at its peak. For example, visit The Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee or the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina in the fall to see colorful scenery and spectacular leaf colors. Whether you go north to Vermont or head west to Arizona this fall, there are idyllic places for mountain biking trips across America this time of year.
• Cycling Tours:There are various travel sites catering to biking adventures and bike tours around the world. Experts can offer general guidance as well as pre-scheduled group departures. One of the most amazing ways to see Europe is through a bike tour, which allows you to take the back roads in seeing vibrant cultures and historic lands. Experience a solo ride through Sicily, or enjoy guided bike tours with locals through sacred sites of Greece.
• Leisure and Rentals: Biking doesn’t have to be all about nature and exercise. Today’s travelers know that big cities are becoming more bike friendly, with some providing bike-rental terminals throughout their metro areas. You can explore cities like San Diego, Denver, Tampa, and New York City in two-wheeled style. In addition to bicycle-sharing systems, you’ll find that many beach hotels, bed and breakfasts, and country inns offer bicycle rentals for guests. Check hotel websites and ask about package options when booking or checking into your accommodations.
• Packing: Once you’ve booked your trip, you’ll need to consider packing before peddling. In general, for any rider, you’ll want to always carry your phone/camera, wallet, water, plus a fanny pack or small backpack for first-aid and other essentials. For clothing, bring breathable fabrics that prevent wicking as well as comfortable cycling shoes. Your additional packing strategy will depend on your mode of transportation and if you are renting or bringing your own bike. If traveling with your own bike, plan ahead to make room for bicycle accessories, repair kits, and mounting gear.

We encourage you to browse biking websites and contact cycling-tour providers for guidance on planning a joyful trip. There is a wide world to explore while boosting your health and having fun on a biking adventure.

Do you have great tips for biking trips? Where is your favorite place for a biking adventure? Let us know via Twitter or Facebook. Together we can all eat well, live long, and travel far!