Tag: Bicycle Travel Companies

Personally, my preferred way of seeing a location is by bike. Since I live in the United States, that gives me access to many great places, such as the National Park System. All I have to do is pack a suitcase, my gear, stash the bike in the car and go.

In contrast to that type of trip, however, is doing an international cycling trip. And if you are a cyclist, why wouldn’t you want to hop on a plane and go cycling somewhere like France, Spain, Italy, or Greece? These are all the meccas of European cycling.

So, pick someplace and get out there, you won’t regret it. Just remember that taking an international cycling trip requires some extra planning and cost, a point Chris Carmichael from Carmichael Training Systems makes in an article specifically about international cycling trips.

Find Your Destination and Your Flight

Anytime you take an international trip, the smart thing to do is plan months in advance, especially if you wish to be in Europe in the late spring, summer, or early fall months. Flying, of course, will be your main way to get there.

If you plan to take your bike with you, make sure to check with the airlines to see if you can bring your bike as a carry on. If they do allow it, it may cost you anywhere from $50.00 to $100.00 additional. Here’s a good reference over at Simply Flying called “A Guide to Flying with Bicycles” that lists airlines and their fees.

Find Your Reason To Travel and Cycle Internationally

If you decide you want to travel internationally not only for a cycling vacation but for an additional reason, that makes the trip even more exciting. For instance, if you go to Europe in the spring, summer, or fall, you might get to see stages of the Giro d’Italia, Le Tour de France, or Vuellta Espana, plus a myriad of other races like the spring classics.

While the prospect of taking off and doing some solo riding in Europe is tempting, I wouldn’t suggest it unless, perhaps, you already know the roads where you’ll be or have a friend who lives where you’re going and is also a cyclist. Short of that, I would suggest a bicycle travel company, some of which I’ll be featuring over the coming months.

A bicycle travel company will take care of all the details for you, such as hotels, food, the routes you’ll ride, and the miles you’ll ride. In most cases, you will have a guide. The other nice thing they offer: bike rental. All you’ll need to bring are your helmet, shoes, saddle, and pedals.

There are several bicycle travel companies that offer trips in North America, Europe, and other places around the world. Here is just a short list

• Trek Travel
• Sfida Cycling
• Duvine Cycling
• Ciclismo Cycling

Pack Appropriately for the Part of The World You’ll Visit

Depending on where you travel in the world to ride, the cycling apparel you choose to bring can make all the difference between being comfortable and being too hot or too cold. Remember that layering is your friend, and this will also help you because cycling gear is bulky and you can’t bring it all with you.

While your destination will help you to determine what to bring, it’s always the best thing to be prepared for what the elements might throw at you. This is especially true if, for instance, you’re in Northern Europe in the spring. Here is his list:

• Waterproof Rain Jacket
• Thermal Waterproof Jacket
• Waterproof gloves
• Neck gaiter
• Skullcap
• Knee and Arm Warmers
• Shoe Covers

Additionally, check the weather of the place you’ll be traveling to for the timeframe when you’ll be there. That will also help you keep your list of items slim because, keep in mind, you’ll need to bring your shoes and helmet, and if you’re renting a bike, your saddle and pedals.

Last Thoughts

International cycling trips are great fun. I’ve only got to do one but I’m dying to do another. As long as you plan and pack appropriately, I guarantee you’ll have a unique experience you’ll never forget. Plus, riding your bike in a new place or country will allow you to see things most tourists don’t.

Have a great July 4th weekend everyone! And if you’re traveling somewhere, I hope you can bring your bike with you.