When it comes to the perfect vacation, we all have different ideas in mind. Some people love to jet off somewhere hot and relax by the beach, whereas others enjoy doing something more active, like a cycling trip. If you resonate with the latter and want to go exploring, there are certain things you must do before hitting the open road.
To get you prepared and ready for a fun-filled cycling adventure, here are some things to bear in mind first.
Choose Your Bike Carefully
There are tons of factors to take into consideration when picking a bike for your trip away. For example, some bikes will function better than others depending on the distance. If you’re planning to cycle for many miles, a mountain or hybrid bike may be the right option. For a perfect ride, you should pay attention to gears, brake type, suspension, and of course, go for a test ride before buying. Make sure you draw up a budget too so you know how much you can realistically afford to shell out on your bike. If you’re taking your car too, you need to pick a bike that can be fitted onto it.
Take Out Insurance
As a cyclist, being protected during your vacation is important. Therefore, it’s wise to take out insurance before you go on your travels. No matter how careful you are cycling, there is always the risk of an accident, which could see your bike being smashed to pieces. However, with insurance in place, you have the assurance of being covered. You may wish to take out bike insurance from Velosurance which offers a multi-risk policy that provides protection for every kind of cyclist. Policies from velosurance cover you against accidental damage, loss in transit, and theft.
Outline Your Route
We understand if you’re itching to get on the saddle and start your vacation. But, it’s always a good idea to outline your route beforehand. Thanks to technology, a quick look on Google Maps can help you draw up a route that will get you from A to B safely. If you’re going on a long-distance ride, factoring in breaks along the way is important. This gives you chance to recharge your batteries. Also, factor in accommodation along the way so you have places to rest and sleep in between cycling.
Be Ready for All Weathers
If there’s one thing we can’t predict, it’s the weather. One day you may be cycling under the wonderful sunshine. The next, you could be faced with torrential rain and thunderstorms. You need to be ready for all weather forecasts, otherwise, your vacation may turn into a nightmare! There is a list of weather applications to download in order for you to get notified of the upcoming weather and just to be sure It’s advised to pack a waterproof raincoat that will make poor weather conditions more bearable. It’s advised to pack a waterproof raincoat that will make poor weather conditions more bearable.
Learn the Basics
No one is saying you need to be an expert in all things mechanical. But, it’s a good idea to know the basics should you encounter a problem with your bike along the way. For instance, knowing how to put a patch on a flat tire will be an immense help. To lower the risk of a breakdown, performing daily maintenance on your bike is key.
Know What to Pack
While we’ve already touched on bringing a raincoat along for your cycling vacation, there are an array of other necessities that should go in your backpack. These include padded shorts, a pump and puncture repair kit, snacks, and spare inner tubes. To keep in touch with loved ones along the journey, you can pack a portable charger. This means you won’t have to worry about finding a socket to charge your phone. Try not to pack too much, especially if you’re carrying everything on your back. The last thing you need is back pain when cycling! Knowing what to pack for a bike trip will ensure you don’t leave anything important behind.
Focus on Safety
Your health and safety are paramount when cycling. You must wear a well-fitted bicycle helmet. This will not only protect your brain but could potentially save your life. Ensure you check your equipment before riding, and if possible, avoid cycling at night. You should also install rearview mirrors on your helmet or handlebars. Wherever you’re heading, make sure to respect the rules of the road by obeying traffic lights and signs.
Drink Lots of Water
If you’re venturing on a long-distance cycling trip, you need to keep your body hydrated as your legs get to work. You’ll be surprised how much water you lose through sweat when cycling, so remember to drink small amounts every 10 to 15 minutes. If you’re cycling for longer than 60 minutes or in hot weather conditions, you should add electrolytes to your water. Electrolytes are salts that include calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium that can prevent severe muscle cramping while riding.
Whether you’re heading to another state or even venturing overseas, before your cycling vacation gets underway, planning and prepping for your trip will ensure you have one you’ll always remember (for the right reasons!).
