Camping is an excellent activity for many people. Some enjoy being out in nature in the silence, while others enjoy the crackle of an open fire with s’mores. No matter what the reason is, a lot of people camp each year to escape the hustle and bustle. Bicycle Camping is a favorite among biking enthusiasts.
Taking your bike out to the campsite adds an extra level of excitement to your adventure and allows you to be more mobile throughout the area you are camping. Not all bikes are qualified for wilderness bike camping and it’s important to prepare yourself for your trip.
We’re going to cover everything you need to know about bicycle camping and ensure that you are fully prepared to take on nature by both handles.
Why Should You Go Camping with Your Bike?
Bike camping is perfect for people looking to see nature more uniquely. You are capable of traveling from one place to the other faster and seeing more sites along the way. Biking camping is also a great way to meet like-minded people out on the trails and at campsites.
One great thing about bicycle camping is the ability to travel more comfortable because you can store all your stuff on the bike. It’s great not to have to carry all of your camping gear on your back as you set up and take down your site.
If you are trying to travel long distances and see as much as you can, bike camping offers the luxury of more comfortable travel without the expense of an RV or Camper. Renting a motor-home can run you approximately $100 a day, so to travel a long distance between states is incredibly expensive.
Traveling by bicycle is not only cheaper, but it also allows you to get into places and see more sites that you couldn’t with a large RV. In addition to that, with the advancement of technology, you can find the best bicycle brands for each type of body size, height and personality.
What Should You Carry When Camping With Your Bike?
Just as with any other type of trip you want always to be prepared. Be sure to bring enough of the right supplies and tools needed to keep yourself feeling great throughout the journey. Riding a bike for the entire camping trip is tiresome, so you want to stay hydrated and well fed.
It’s also important to keep your bike at peak performance so you do not run into any problems that can delay your travels. There are an endless number of things necessary for a successful bike camping trip but here are some of the essentials.
- Bike Racks – Depending on how heavy you are traveling, you need plenty of room to tie down your supplies and camping gear.
- Panniers – This acts as additional storage for smaller items that can easily be lost or thrown from the bike.
- Patch Kit and Air Pump – The worst thing is a flat during a long trip.
- Chain Lubricant – Actually, a snapped chain is probably the worst thing you can experience on a bicycle camping trip.
- Bike Lights – Even if you do not plan on traveling after dark, you should always be prepared for an emergency.
- Helmet and Gloves – Necessary protection for all terrain.
In addition to the bicycle camping gear you need, it’s also important to remember a few camping necessities that should be included on your trip.
- Tent and Sleeping Bags – Always prepare for the worst, even if you do not expect it to be cold bring a nice warm sleeping bag and air mattress.
- After Biking Clothes – After a long day of biking, you are going to want to change out of your cycling clothes and into something more relaxing.
- First Aid Kit – This is camping must, you never know when an accident will occur. Be proactive during a dangerous situation.
- Flashlights – During the night, you may not be able to take your bike.
Tips For Preparing Your Bike For Camping
You would never go on a long road trip without taking your car to the mechanic for a proper servicing, so the same goes for your bike. Before going bicycle camping be sure that everything on your bike is going to perform the best it can throughout your trip.
1. Take Your Bike for a Tune-up
If you are unsure about exactly what you should be looking for, take the bike to a local bike shop and make them aware of your plans. Make sure you have the proper bike and tires for the trip you are taking. If you are doing it yourself, be sure to check your chain, pressure, and brakes before taking off.
2. Get Organized
Check to make sure you have enough storage to keep everything before the day of your departure. Set everything up on your bike with your racks and decide if your plan is going to work. You may need additional racks or bags, or you might need to pack a little lighter. You don’t want to find this out when you are ready to take off.
Bicycle Trailers
If having a bunch of bike racks and panniers don’t work for you, a camping bike trailer might be the way to go. You can store everything in there without the need for excessive weight bogging down your bicycle.
You can carry all of your big items in one large tow behind trailer instead of a lot of small bags and racks scattered all over your bike. This method also allows you the freedom to use different types of bicycles for your travels.
Most camping bike trailers are lightweight and thoroughly fold into a small bag so you can pack them up when you don’t want to use them.
Why Are Hybrid Bikes Best For Camping?
Hybrid bikes are designed to be the best compromise for different types of terrain. They are a combination of every type of bike which makes them ideal for every situation. These things are what makes them perfect for bicycle camping.
When you are traveling long distances on a bike, you are never sure what kind of terrain you are going to encounter. It’s important to be prepared to travel that terrain the best way possible.
Hybrid bikes provide the best mix of sturdiness and stability for mountainous terrain with the comfort and design made from paved bike paths.
Each hybrid bike is slightly different, but you can pick and choose which options you want based on what your plans are for your travels.
Conclusion
Bicycle camping is a fantastic way to see the world from a different perspective. Travel more efficiently and be sure to follow the tips above to make sure your trip is an enjoyable one!
Are you traveling with your loved one and want to explore your camping areas together? Then Tandem bicycles are the best options for couples. This bicycles are two seater and a great relationship builders.
