Summer has just arrived, a good opportunity for many of you to go on vacation. And, after this long period of confinement, what could be better than bicycle touring? If you only knew, these cycling vacations allow you to be at one with nature. However, while this type of holiday has many advantages, you need to be well prepared before you set off. We explain everything.
What is cycle touring?
As the name suggests, cyclotourism refers to "bicycle tourism". The aim of a cyclotourist is to set off on a journey using his or her bicycle as a means of locomotion.
Whether your destination is in France or abroad, this type of vacation allows you to visit in a different way to traditional tourism. And you don't have to go far from home! Being on your bike allows you to discover your region as you've never seen it before.
Alone or with others, taking your time or pedalling fast... Cycle touring can be adapted to suit all tastes and rhythms!
As you can imagine, cycle touring has many advantages, otherwise we wouldn't be telling you about it. For a start, cycling is good for your health, especially your heart. What's more, being outdoors, especially after months of confinement, means you can breathe fresh air again and enjoy the sunshine, which promotes vitamin D production. Don't forget your sun cream!
You also get some exercise by pedaling all day long: a perfect opportunity to build up your muscles. But as well as looking after your body, you're also looking after your mind. On your bike, it's time to let go (figuratively speaking, of course), forget your worries and refocus on yourself. Cut off from your daily routine, you can recharge your batteries and let your mind wander.
Cycle touring also has a significant advantage: it's cheap. With a bike as your means of transport, there's no need to pay for insurance, fuel or overnight parking. Your only mandatory investment is to buy a good bicycle and maintenance equipment. You can take advantage of this type of tourism to reconnect fully with nature, and thus favor camping at a hotel, which considerably lowers your vacation budget. Please note, however, that camping in the wild is not permitted everywhere.
Let's talk about nature! With your bike, you respect the environment with minimalCO2 emissions. A truly eco-friendly vacation!
Last but not least, cycling alone, as a duo, with family or friends, is an opportunity to enjoy beautiful places, take your time, and go where you want, at your own pace. What if this was freedom?
Small drawbacks to bear in mind
As with everything else, bicycle touring has a few minor drawbacks. Nothing serious, but it's important to take them into consideration before planning your trip, to avoid unpleasant surprises.Cycling is sporty! But even though it brings many benefits, you can also end up feeling tired. To avoid these energy slumps, we advise you to take regular breaks. And don't forget to pack a few rich snacks like dried fruit, cereal bars or chocolate. Finally, for the less athletic among you, consider investing in an electrically-assisted bicycle, so you don't come home exhausted from your vacation.
Remember, too, that as a cyclist, you'll be out in the open on all your journeys. So you're totally dependent on the weather, which may or may not be kind to you. Fortunately, a rain cape or a good K-Way will protect you in case of bad weather.
Finally, we're never immune to mechanical problems. Punctures, derailments, loose cables... Remember to do a complete check of your bike before you set off, to make sure your tires are properly inflated and your brakes operational. And don't forget to bring along an emergency repair kit, so that these minor inconveniences are quickly forgotten.
The touring cyclist's checklist
When it comes to bicycle touring, it's essential to be well-equipped, but also to be as uncluttered as possible! Remember, you'll need to carry all your gear on your bike for the duration of your trip. Your mantra? Minimalism!Among the essentials, we recommend an emergency repair kit for your bike, as well as a pump to keep your tires fully inflated. As you'll sometimes be obliged to leave your two-wheeler behind, for example to run errands, you'll need a sturdy anti-theft device to avoid unpleasant surprises.
If you're heading away from the cities, remember to pack a first-aid kit. A GPS and road map will also help you find your way.
When it comes to clothing, there's no question of overloading yourself! Take only the bare essentials, i.e. light clothes for hot weather and warmer ones for cooler moments and nights. For family trips, don't forget a rain cape or K-Way, in case of capricious weather.
If you're planning to sleep outdoors, be sure to pack your camping gear (tent, comforter, stove, flashlights, etc.), as well as hygiene products.
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