Words and Photos by Sarah Swallow

Bicycle travel is an incredible way to explore new places and immerse yourself in cultures around the world. Unlike traditional travel, cycling allows you to bypass crowded tourist hotspots and engage more deeply with a place’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and daily rhythms—all at a human-powered pace. Traveling by bicycle is not just about reaching the final destination; it’s more about the journey itself: the challenges you face, the connections you make, the meals you enjoy, and the stories you gather along the way. Beyond these rewards, bicycle travel is also a more sustainable and economical choice. Drastically reducing your carbon footprint minimizes conventional travel methods’ environmental and societal impacts. Additionally, prioritizing camping over lodging can make it a far more affordable way to explore, allowing you to experience epic destinations without breaking the bank.

However, traveling by bicycle comes with its share of challenges. It requires careful planning to map out your route, establish a rough itinerary, and select the appropriate equipment for the journey. Strategic packing is essential to avoid excess baggage fees and a cumbersome ride, and navigating cultural and language differences is vital to being a respectful guest. Additionally, emotional and mental challenges, such as homesickness or travel fatigue, can arise and should be anticipated.  

I have had the privilege of traveling by bike on six continents and through over twenty countries. My trips have ranged from two weeks to three months. These experiences have tested my physical and mental limits and deepened my understanding of the world and my place within it through meaningful connections and interactions. In this guide, I’ll share strategies for successful bicycle travel—from planning your route and choosing the right equipment to packing efficiently and navigating cultural nuances, as well as addressing the emotional and mental aspects of the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter seeking new insights or preparing for your first international trip, I hope this guide inspires and equips you to become a prepared, low-impact, and conscious world bicycle traveler.

Choosing Your Route

Selecting a route and planning a rough itinerary are the first steps in preparing for a bicycle trip, even before booking flights and accommodations. Fortunately, countless established routes and guides are available online for nearly any destination you have in mind.

If this is your first time traveling to a specific location, follow a pre-established route. This simplifies logistics and allows you to focus on immersing yourself in the cultural experience and tackling the physical challenges rather than navigating complex land access rules or route planning in unfamiliar territory.

Key Questions to Shape Your Experience

To determine the type of experience you want, ask yourself:

• Where do I want to go?
• What culture inspires me, or which one would I like to learn more about?
• What surfaces do I want to ride? Pavement, dirt roads, trails, or a mix?
• What’s my primary goal? Exploring remote natural landscapes or immersing fully in a cultural experience?
• What kind of environment excites me? Mountains, urban, countryside, coastlines, deserts, etc.?
• What accommodations do I prefer? Camping, hostels, B&Bs, homestays, huts, or hotels?

Answering these questions can help you clarify your vision for the trip, making it easier to narrow down potential routes.

Finding the Perfect Route

Once you have a sense of what you’re looking for, use these resources to discover established routes:

• Bikepacking.com Worldwide Route Map: A global database of bikepacking routes, guides, and stories.
• Bikepacking Roots: U.S.-based routes with an emphasis on conservation, advocacy, and community.
• Ride with GPS: A user-friendly platform for planning, finding, and navigating routes.
• Komoot Discover Routes: A similar app to Ride with GPS dominant in Europe. 
• Google Search: Use keywords like “Bikepacking [location]” or “Bike Touring [location]” to find region-specific guides.

Choosing a route that aligns with your values, goals, and preferences will set the foundation for a rewarding and memorable adventure.

Planning Your Itinerary

Once you’ve chosen a destination and a route, it’s time to plan a basic itinerary. A well-structured yet flexible itinerary allows you to be free to fully enjoy the experience. The basic framework below helps you budget time for the trip and book transportation while leaving room for spontaneity, the heart of bicycle travel. After all, the unplanned moments, whether a serendipitous detour or an immersive cultural experience, often become the highlights of your journey.

Budgeting Time for the Trip

Start by taking your route’s total mileage (or elevation gain) and dividing it by the average distance (or elevation) you expect to cover each day.

For example, I enjoy rugged, remote, and mountainous routes and prefer a daily average of about 35 miles or 3,500 feet of climbing. This pace gives me time to:

• Pause for a siesta or a swim.
• Enjoy impromptu experiences.
• Fully immerse in the surroundings without feeling rushed.

For a 400-mile route, I’d budget around 11 days of riding, allowing for variability:

• Surpassing the daily average lets me “bank” time.
• Some days, I may cover as little as 25 miles due to challenging terrain or the desire to linger.
• Banking time often allows for rest days or exploring cultural attractions mid-tour or at the trip’s end.

Key Considerations for Daily Mileage

When determining your average distance per day, think about:

1. Surface Type
   • Pavement allows for longer distances.
   • Dirt roads, singletrack, or technical terrain slow you down.
2. Elevation Gain
   • Significant climbing reduces your daily range.
3. Load
   • Fully loaded bikes with camping gear and provisions require more effort. Adjust expectations accordingly.
   • Depending on conditions, semi-loaded riders staying in huts or hotels may manage higher mileage.

Build Flexibility into Your Itinerary

Add a few buffer days to account for:

• Travel days.
• Jet lag.
• Acclimating to altitude or a new climate.
• Unexpected delays or opportunities for unplanned adventures.

This extra time ensures you won’t feel pressured and allows the trip to unfold naturally.

Final Step: Book Your Tickets

Once you’ve calculated the time needed for your trip (plus a buffer), start shopping for transportation tickets whether it be by plane, train, or automobile. 

Selecting and Preparing the Equipment

Once you’ve chosen your route and planned a basic itinerary, you can focus on selecting and preparing your bicycle, camping gear, bike bags, and other travel essentials.

Route-Specific Gear Selection

Many route guides offer gear recommendations tailored to specific routes. Read these guides and browse community comments for insights into terrain difficulty, climate conditions, insect prevalence, and overnight temperatures. These details can significantly influence your gear choices.

If no recommendations are available, here’s a basic guideline:

• Off-Road Routes (40% or more): Choose a hardtail mountain bike for stability, comfort, and lower gearing under heavy load. Opt for flat bars for technical routes with singletrack or rough roads, adjusting tire size for sandy or rocky conditions. For smoother gravel and dirt roads, a hardtail mountain bike with drop bars works well (e.g., the Fenrir).
• Gravel Bikes: Think of gravel bikes as the road bikes of paved touring. Tour on a gravel bike on predominantly paved routes, and you’ll have the flexibility to ride dirt sections comfortably enough for shorter periods of time.

Camping Gear: Your Home on Wheels

When camping, your gear becomes your home, kitchen, and bed. Prioritize comfort and be ready for varying conditions:

• Always carry a bug net and a rainfly for longer trips.
• Choose a sleeping pad based on expected temperatures:
  • For nights above 45°F, an uninsulated pad suffices.
  • Below that, opt for an insulated pad.
• I tend to run cold at night. For temperatures in the 20°F range, I choose a 10°-0°F sleeping bag and pack insulated pants and booties.

Bikepacking vs. Touring Setup

Deciding between traditional racks and panniers or bikepacking bags depends on your style and route. For a deeper dive into this choice, check out my Introduction to Bikepacking: Tips, Tricks, and Pack List. If gear is a barrier to starting, remember: the best gear is the gear you already have or can borrow. With the right attitude, almost any bike and setup can get you there.

Preventative Maintenance

Nothing disrupts an adventure like realizing mid-trip that your chain is worn or your derailleur hanger is broken. Ensure your bike is trail-ready by getting a professional tune-up before your trip.

Ask your mechanic to:

• Check and replace worn tires, chain, cassette, and brake pads.
• Service the bottom bracket and hubs.

Remember to pack a spare derailleur hanger, an extra tube, tire sealant, tire plugs, chain links, extra brake pads, spare bolts, a few spokes for each wheel, and any other bike-specific item that may fail. 

Preparation is key to a smooth journey!

Packing Tips for Bike Travel

When packing to travel with your bicycle, it is crucial to bring only the essentials. Packing light will simplify your life on the road (rather than make it complex and cumbersome) and make your bicycle handle more comfortably and efficiently. For my recommended packing list and how to balance weight distribution on your bike, check out my Introduction to Bikepacking: Tips, Tricks, and Pack List. 

Transporting Your Bicycle

“How do you get your bicycle to your destination? Do you travel with it? Is that a TV in that box?” These are common questions I’m asked when traveling with my bike.

While rental bikes are available in many places worldwide, I prefer traveling with my bicycle because:

• It is tailored to my fit specifications.
• My bikepacking bags are designed to fit my bicycle’s dimensions.
• I trust its mechanical reliability and durability.
• I have trained with and tested my setup.

Traveling by Plane 

Flying with Your Bike

Most major U.S. airlines now treat bicycles as standard checked baggage, provided the box or case weighs 50 lbs or less. Exceeding this weight limit will typically result in oversized baggage fees ranging from $150 to $200 or more. 

Pro Tips for Flying with a Bike:

1. Check Airline Baggage Policies: Research and print the airline’s bicycle baggage policy before your trip. If the check-in agent seems unfamiliar with the airline’s rules, show them to them. If necessary, politely ask for a supervisor to assist.
2. Beware of Smaller Regional Airlines: Many regional airlines outside the U.S. have stricter policies and higher fees for bicycles. For example:
   • I am flying to Marrakesh, Morocco, with a layover in Madrid, Spain. The leg from Madrid to Marrakesh is booked through a third-party regional airline, but because I purchased my ticket through American Airlines and my bike is checked through to my final destination, I will only pay the price of a checked bag on the outbound trip. However, on my return, the process will differ. I’ll first fly from Marrakesh to Madrid with the third-party airline. Upon arrival in Madrid, I’ll need to retrieve my bike from customs and recheck it with American Airlines for the final leg of the journey to the United States. In this case, I should anticipate being charged by the third-party airline for their bicycle luggage policy (typically $150–$300), as their fees will apply for the Marrakesh-to-Madrid segment, not American Airlines’.
3. Weigh and Pack Smart: Avoid surprise charges by keeping your bike box or case within the weight limit.

Bike Cases vs. Cardboard Boxes

Bike Cases (Hard or Soft):

• Pros:
  • Best protection for your bike during air travel.
  • Ideal for trips starting and ending in the same location, as many hotels or hostels will store the case for you.
• Cons:
  • Expensive and bulky, requiring storage space when not in use.
  • Heavier and offer less room for additional gear like camping equipment or clothing.

Cardboard Bike Boxes:

• Pros:
  • Affordable (often free) and lightweight.
  • Mountain bike or e-bike boxes provide extra space for packing gear, which also adds padding.
  • Easy to discard or recycle at your destination, making them great for trips with different start and end points.
• Cons:
  • Less durable; long flights with many connections can damage them, potentially harming your bike.
  • Loose items may fall out through holes created during handling.
  • More complicated to replace in areas without bike shops. If unavailable, you may need to construct one using cardboard from appliance stores.

See How to Pack Your Bike In a Cardboard Box

Packing Your Gear

Whether using a case or box, pack heavy or bulky items with your bike to distribute weight efficiently. Consider carrying a lightweight, packable backpack or bikepacking bag as your carry-on. I typically pack essentials like:

• Electronics.
• Toiletries.
• Clothing layers.
• Sleep setup (bag, pad, pillow).

By packing my sleeping gear, toiletries, clothing, and electronics in my carry-on bag, I ensure I’m prepared to sleep in the airport if needed or manage comfortably if my bike luggage is delayed.

Bonus Tip: If you love bringing home local goods, purchase a cheap duffle bag from a local market to carry extra items that won’t fit in your bike box or carry-on. It’s a handy way to transport those artisan finds!

Remember! You cannot fly with CO2 cartridges or propane canisters. Pack all lithium batteries (including eTap batteries) in your carry-on bag.

Traveling By Train 

Traveling by train is a convenient, low-impact option, especially in Europe. Most local regional trains in Europe allow bicycles onboard for free and have designated bike racks in specific cars. For longer-distance or high-speed trains, a limited number of bike racks are available, and an additional ticket for your bicycle is often required.

Amtrak is the only nationwide train service in the United States, supplemented by smaller regional and subway systems in major cities. Amtrak destinations are limited, and tickets can sometimes cost more than renting a car. Travel times can be longer than driving, with occasional significant delays. However, train travel offers a more relaxed and hassle-free experience. For bicycles, Amtrak typically requires a reservation. Bikes weighing up to 50 lbs are accepted, but you’ll need to remove all bags and luggage before handing your bike to the Amtrak luggage crew.

Traveling By Bus

Traveling by bus can also be a great option, though it may be limited by the number of bicycles the bus can accommodate. Smaller buses without under-coach storage typically have a bike rack on the front. Drivers may ask you to remove some or all of your bike’s bags to make it easier to secure on the rack and avoid obstructing their view.

You’ll often need to remove at least the front wheel for larger buses with under-coach storage. In Europe, many bus services require bicycles to be wrapped in plastic or placed inside a bag to contain dirt. Always check the specific bicycle policy of the bus service before traveling.

Traveling by Boat

Traveling by boat or ferry is a scenic, convenient, and hassle-free way to transport your bicycle, with no disassembly required. Simply roll your bike on and off the vessel. Don’t forget to bring a few extra straps to secure your bike during the journey.

Shipping Your Bike

For domestic travel, Bike Flights offers a reliable, insured shipping service and can also provide a sturdy bike box for packing. However, this convenience comes at a cost—expect to pay $200 or more.

Cultural and Logistical Considerations for Responsible Travel

It is a privilege to travel by bicycle, so when visiting a new place or country, it’s essential to be respectful, responsible, and well-prepared to ensure sustainable and low-impact travel.

1. Research and Preparation: Thoroughly research your route and prepare yourself and your equipment to minimize the risk of being underprepared and potentially burdening local communities.

2. Visas and Documentation: For international trips, consult the U.S. State Department’s travel recommendations for your destination. Ensure you obtain all necessary visas, permits, and supporting paperwork well in advance.

3. Guidebooks and General Knowledge: Use a general guidebook, such as Lonely Planet, to familiarize yourself with the local currency, transportation options, history, cultural norms, and major attractions.

4. Language Basics: Learn basic phrases in the local language using tools like Duolingo. Even small efforts to communicate are often warmly appreciated. Additionally, download the Google Translate app and save the relevant languages for offline use—translation apps are widely accepted and used worldwide.

5. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture: Deepen your understanding by exploring the culture of a place. Listen to local music, watch documentaries, or read works by regional authors. Connecting to culture, arts, and literature enriches your experience and shows respect for the place and its people.

6. Stay Informed About Local Context: Familiarize yourself with your destination’s current socioeconomic and political climate to better understand its context and sensitivities.

7. Ask Permission Before Taking Photos: Always ask for permission before photographing people, sacred sites, or private property. Respect local customs regarding photography, and be mindful that some communities may view it as intrusive or disrespectful.

8. Support Fair Trade and Ethical Practices: Shopping from fair trade and ethically responsible sellers ensures your purchases contribute positively to the local economy, support artisans, and uphold fair labor practices. Avoid buying products that exploit local resources or workers.

9. Leave No Trace: Adhere to the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your environmental impact and help preserve the natural and cultural beauty of the places you visit.

10. Interactions with Locals: Engage with curious locals who show genuine interest in getting to know you. However, exercise caution and avoid engaging with individuals exhibiting hustling or scam-like behavior.

11. Respect for Rural and Underserved Communities

• Avoid straining local resources by being adequately prepared for your journey.
• Consider bringing small, meaningful gifts like pens, toothbrushes, water filters, or solar lanterns to give back thoughtfully.

12. Sustainable Travel: Research carbon offset programs to mitigate your travel’s environmental impact. Many initiatives allow you to fund climate projects, often in the region you’re visiting, helping to balance activities like travel by plane. 

13. Travel Mindset: A positive attitude goes a long way. Be respectful, humble, and courteous, always remembering that you are a guest and that travel is a privilege.

Emotional and Mental Aspects of Traveling by Bicycle

Traveling by bicycle can be a magical adventure, but it also has its share of emotional challenges, such as solitude, homesickness, or a lack of motivation. Preparing for these challenges can help you address your needs without completely derailing your trip.

When an emotional challenge arises, the first step is to have compassion for yourself. Traveling by bike takes you far outside your comfort zone, away from familiar support systems, and often leaves you physically exhausted from daily riding and camping. Add the mental stimulation of constant new experiences, and it’s no surprise that emotional challenges can surface. When this happens, consider the following:

• Practice Self-Compassion: Remind yourself that what you’re experiencing is expected, given the demands of your journey. Reframe your emotions in the context of the incredible effort and adventure you’re undertaking.
  
• Meet Your Basic Needs: Eat a substantial meal (or two), get quality rest by booking a room, shower, and do some laundry. A single restful night can transform your outlook.
  
• Take a Break: Take a day or two off the bike to recharge physically and mentally.
  
• Reconnect: Reach out to family or friends or engage with other travelers. Human connection can offer a fresh perspective and much-needed comfort.
  
• Reassess Your Plans: If fatigue or emotional strain persists, consider pivoting. Pivoting might mean adjusting your route, taking a different mode of transport, or even stepping away from the bike entirely. Remember, there’s no prize for completing every mile. Your well-being matters more than the route.
  
• Read for Perspective: For further insights on managing the emotional and mental aspects of cycling journeys, check out my article: Quitting: A Cyclist’s Guide to Graceful Exits.
  

No matter what happens, every journey teaches you something about yourself. Embrace the experience, listen to your needs, and trust yourself to make the best decisions for your trip.

For me, bicycle travel is an intimate and rewarding way to experience new places. It blends physical challenges with cultural immersion, environmental consciousness, and personal growth. While it requires some preparation and adaptability, the benefits are immeasurable. Whether you seek adventure, connection, or a deeper understanding of the world and your place within it, traveling by bike offers a unique perspective unavailable through traditional means. With the strategies shared in this guide, you are now equipped to plan a successful and conscientious journey. Embrace the unexpected, and enjoy the ride. Safe travels!