Cycle tourism is simply tourism by bicycle. It’s an alternative way of discovering a country or region, using your legs and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether on your own, as a couple, with friends or family, a cycling vacation needs to be planned well in advance! There’s a misconception that organizing a cycling holiday is a real headache. At the top of the list is the question of transporting your belongings and/or your children, or even your pet for the more daring! It’s a source of anxiety and apprehension, especially when you’re away for several days. To help you, discover our tips and tricks for transporting your belongings and your whole tribe on your next cycling vacation!
Cyclotouring: how to transport your belongings by bike?
Before you set off on your cycling adventure, find out what you need and what you need to pack, so you know how much you’ll need. Choose your clothing and equipment according to the number of days you’ll be out and the weather. Cycle touring and bikepacking are two ways of traveling where you need topack only the bare essentials. To transport your belongings for a week, you’ll need to invest in a range of bike panniers on either side of your bike. Installing a rear rack and/or a front rack is also a good option if you’re going to be away for several days. The Apidura brand offers lightweight, durable and practical bicycle touring panniers at a very good price/quality ratio. Another benchmark in bicycle luggage, Ortlieb offers cyclists the Ortlieb Free Line range of PVC-free, eco-friendly panniers. To ensure your comfort and the stability of your bike, it’s also important to distribute the weight between the various panniers and your luggage rack:
- Saddle bag for light items that can take up a lot of space (shoes, clothes, etc.).
- handlebar bag for essentials, light and bulky valuables
- frame bag for heavier items (food, tools, etc.)
- rear carrier bag for other bulky items, and for heavier items to be placed on the bottom of the rack
Store your essentials and valuables (bank card, rain jacket, wallet, telephone, etc.) in panniers that you can open quickly and easily. A final tip: choose waterproof and/or leak-proof panniers, equipped with reflective elements to ensure your visibility on the road! Like the above-mentioned brands, Vaude offers a range of panniers and transport solutions adapted to cycle touring. In the event of wear and tear, or if you need to change a part, Vaude also offers repair kits!
Travelling by bike with the whole family: what equipment should you choose?
If you’re traveling with the family and your children aren’t old enough to pedal on their own, use a a children’s bike trailer. There are many models available, equipped with a wide range of functions and able to accommodate 1 or 2 children. The choice of trailer is an important one, and depends on a number of criteria, including the child’s age. Some models are modular and upgradeable thanks to adapted interior accessories (hammock, baby seat with padded headrest, etc.). Trailers also feature storage spaces that are the perfect complement to your cycling equipment for your cycling vacations. Slip in a few toys to keep your children occupied while you’re pedaling. Don’t forget to put some inside the trailer, too, along with a water bottle and a few cakes. Suspension systems ensure your child’s comfort. A belt or harness ensures your child’s safety during your bike trip. Like the strollers, the trailers are fully closable, protecting your children from the sun or rain.
Leading brands such as Thule, Maxxus and Croozer also offer models equipped with mosquito nets. Ideal for summer temperatures, or if you’re traveling in regions where mosquitoes are rife! If you’re also a runner, choose a modular trailer that can be transported as a stroller. A 2-in-1 solution for sporty parents, or when you’re taking a break for several days during a cycling vacation. Even in a bike trailer, children under 12 must wear a helmet. Travelling with your dog? There are solutions for transporting your pet by bike. For dogs weighing up to 12kg, we recommend baskets with a protective grid, or a trailer adapted to the rear if it’s a large dog. We strongly advise against using a trailer for your child and your dog at the same time, however large it may be. Before you set off on your adventure, make sure your 4-legged friend is comfortable on the bike by taking a few short trips. If not, you might want to consider hiring a dog sitter for the vacations…
Lecyclo.com – equipment for cycle touring and cycling vacations
Specializing in equipment for cyclists and cyclists-tourists, Lecyclo.com is a company that is gently shaking up the world of cycling by offering a range of innovative products that are both safe and comfortable. Its team is made up of passionate cyclists who have made cycling a veritable art of living. Our goal? To give a modern, innovative image to the sector by promoting ecology, and highlighting the fact that everyday cycling is possible. A specialist in bicycle accessories, Lecyclo.com offers everything needed to equip cyclists traveling alone or with their families. Thanks to testimonials, advice and practical guides, you can easily prepare for all your bike tours, bikepacking trips and vacations. From panniers and trailers to luggage racks, equip your bike with everything you need for your vacation. Lecyclo.com is a one-stop shop for all your cycling needs! But always by bike!
