Is there a better way to see the world than on a bicycle? Sure, it can be a tough slog – but you also get the time to see stunning landscapes, enjoy fresh air, and beat your personal goals. It doesn’t matter whether you travel for hundreds of miles by road or go off-road through a forest. A cycling trip is a lot of fun – but you need to get fit and have the right gear with you to survive. In today’s guide, we’re going to go through all the essentials you will need to make your biking expedition a success. Read on to find out more.

A plan

As with most things in life, a good plan is essential for any cycling trip. You’ll need to sketch out your routes, find places to stay, and also have a good reason to finish your journey. Cycling long distances can be tough work. To defeat your inner demons when tired, there are a few things you can do. Think about cycling long distances for charity, for example. Or, make sure you route encompasses some impressive sights that you have always wanted to see. Both these ideas will help you drive through the pain barrier when times get tough.

A better bike

Make sure your bike is suitable for the distance and terrain you intend to travel. You could be riding for up to 12 hours every day, and it’s the bike – and your legs – that will take all the strain. There’s a lot of bumpy roads out there, so a good suspension is a must. If you can’t afford to buy a monster bicycle, see if there is anything you can to to upgrade your current wheels.

Tools

Accidents are going to happen when you spend so much time on the road on a bike. And, when they do, you will need to be prepared. Of course, it’s not just the cycling tools you need – it’s the skills to use them that are important, too. It’s a good idea for anyone planning on cycling long distances to know how their bike works, so they can make fixes as and when they happen.

Safety

Make sure you have the right protection when going on a long cycle trip. Everyone will have a helmet, of course, but also think about cycling gloves and the proper clothing. You will chafe – a lot – in particular areas, so get protection ‘down there’, too. Another vital thing to remember is sunblock – you will have a lot of exposure to UV rays when you spend days on end cycling. Finally, make sure your bike has protection, too. Compare cycle insurance packages and find one that suits your needs. You will be stopping in strange places every night, and the risk of theft is a real one.

Support

Finally, there are two types of support that you will need when going on an arduous cycling tour. First of all, support for your body in the shape of plenty of food and water. But, also the support of your fellow cyclists – and even folks from home. Make sure you have a contact that you call at regular intervals – especially if you are in a remote location. It’s another safety net that could just save your life.