Getting started with bike touring: Lokki's advice

Before you set out to conquer the asphalt or mountain bike trails, a quick check-up of your luggage is in order. And no, we're not talking about your postcard collection or that novel you've been meaning to read while pedaling (uh... very inadvisable! 😱 ).

Instead, we're zooming in on a few essentials often overlooked by novices. You'll see, it's these little details that can turn a complicated trip into an anthology ride!

Repair Kit 🛠️

Yes, we know, nobody wants to lug around a toolbox on their back. But a small repair kit is the bare minimum. You'll need patches, a bicycle pump and a multi-tool. Believe us, it's better to be prepared than to pedal with a missing wheel! 😅

If you want to go further (in every sense of the word 😉 ): The 3 basic bike repairs , in case of a glitch

Snacks and water 🍌💧

Cycling means effort, and effort means... snacking! It's time to turn your backpack into a walking buffet. We're not talking about taking the whole kitchen with you, but think of energy snacks like cereal bars, dried fruit or even a little dark chocolate for a boost. These little treats will be your allies on the miles of roads or paths you'll have to cover. 💪

And to stay hydrated, don't neglect water. We know, we know, energy drinks and fruit smoothies are all the rage, but nothing beats good old H²O. Carry a water bottle or, for the more high-tech among you, a hydration bag in your luggage. It's practical and saves you having to stop every couple of kilometers to rummage through your accessories. 🚵‍♀️

Dehydration can quickly turn your bike ride into a nightmare, especially if you're on a less accessible circuit. So be prepared! On this subject, take advantage of our tips to be at your best during a long bike outing! 🚰

Spare clothing 🧥

While we're all about style, we're also thinking practical. A spare T-shirt and a little wool for chilly evenings are always a good idea. And for your feet? A pair of dry socks to the rescue (ever tried pedaling with wet feet? You won't miss a thing, I promise 🤝).

We haven't yet written an article dedicated to spare clothing, but if you ask us nicely, we won't be able to resist 🥺.

Now that you've got a backpack ready for the apocalypse, it's time to plan where those two wheels are going to take you. You've got the gear, but where to go to really enjoy the bike ride?

🎉 The Mad Jacques: a race? No, a party!

Starting your bike tour with the Mad Jacques would be simply incredible! A crazy roadbook in prospect (make us dream, pleeeaaaase!!! 😍)!

Just imagine: kilometers of happiness, challenges and stages that feel more like parties than checkpoints. We won't tell you any more, just find out more here if you're not lacking in courage! 😜💪

🌄 Other adventures worth the detour

If you find the Mad Jacques a little too supercharged for a first bike ride (frankly, I feel you! 😧 ), there are other nuggets and itineraries to explore. How about a bike trip along the canals of Burgundy? Or perhaps a tour through the vineyards of Bordeaux? The possibilities are as vast as your imagination (and the length of your map).

Speaking of maps. Now you've got your backpack, a few adventure ideas... but how do you avoid ending up in a ditch, or worse, lost in the middle of nowhere?

You may be thinking that, in the age of smartphones, a paper map is out of date. But no, no, no! A road map is your guarantee of a reliable source that won't leave you stranded. Literally. No battery, no network, no problem! And between you and me, deciphering a map is a bit like a treasure hunt for adults, isn't it? 🤓

Okay, we admit it, technology comes in handy too. From cycling apps like Hexplo to specialized GPS units, these little electronic gems can save the day.

Your luggage is packed and you've even got a few itinerary maps across France. Great! But wait a second, have you thought about the configuration of your trip? Yes, we're talking about that crucial choice: going solo for an introspective ride or rallying a troupe of cyclists for a collective roadbook. 🤔

🤗 The strength of the collective and the importance of companionship

If you opt for a group, the dynamics of your little band of cyclists are not to be overlooked. A close-knit group can make all the difference on the winding roads of our beautiful France. 🥰

Have you thought about drawing up a common roadbook? Dividing up tasks like brake checks or choosing the route (don't be fooled by the number of kilometers to cover 😅)? Sharing is king in cycle touring! 🤗

🧘‍♂️ The benefits of solitude: zen and the art of bike touring

If you choose to ride solo, you'll quickly discover the benefits of this practice. More than just a trip, it's a truly introspective experience. The silence, the rhythm of your wheels on the road, the freedom to explore as you please... everything contributes to a profoundly Zen experience. 🧘

That said, even solo, a well-charged phone (and a map of the route, you haven't forgotten already, have you?! 😜) and a few practical accessories are your best allies on a bike tour. 🚴