Ever Thought of Touring on a Bike? Let’s Make It an Adventure!
Have you ever found yourself daydreaming about leaving your daily grind behind, hopping on a bike, and pedaling off into the great unknown?
Maybe you’ve caught a glimpse of a bike touring vlog on YouTube or stumbled across an article that made you wonder, “Could I do that?” If so, you’re not alone. The idea of bike touring has a unique allure—one that promises freedom, adventure, and the kind of stories you’ll tell for the rest of your life.
But let’s be honest: most of us have a list of reasons why we haven’t done it yet. There’s work, family, and that ever-present voice whispering, “Maybe next year.” For a long time, I was right there with you, making excuses and pushing the dream aside. But the call of the open road never really goes away. And if you’re going to do it, why not make it epic? Why not tour across Europe, where every pedal stroke brings a new country, culture, and cuisine?
Let’s dive into what makes bike touring so exhilarating, how it compares to backpacking, and why Europe might just be the ultimate playground for your two-wheeled adventure.
Backpacking vs. Bike Touring: The Great Adventure Showdown
Backpacking has long been the rite of passage for gap-year students and young adults. It’s a ticket to freedom, a way to see the world, work odd jobs, and collect stories from hostels and train stations. You cover vast distances using planes, trains, and buses, and the journey is as much about the people you meet as the places you go.
But bike touring? That’s a different beast. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey in between. The age range is broader, too. While backpackers are often in their teens and twenties, bike tourers range from their late twenties all the way to their seventies. It’s never too late to start, and every mile is a testament to your spirit of adventure.
Both styles share the same core themes: adventure, travel, and immersion in new cultures. But bike touring adds a twist—the bike becomes your trusty steed, your constant companion, and your ticket to places that buses and trains can’t reach.
Meet the Touring Bike: Your Passport to Adventure
Let’s talk about the real hero of this story: the touring bike. At first glance, it might look like any other bicycle, but don’t be fooled. Touring bikes are purpose-built machines, designed to handle the rigors of long-distance travel and heavy loads.
Key Features of a Touring Bike:
- Steel Frames: Steel isn’t just strong; it’s repairable almost anywhere in the world. If you break down in the middle of nowhere, a local welder can get you back on the road.
- Long Wheelbase: This gives you a smoother ride and keeps your pedals from hitting your panniers (those big bags you’ll be hauling).
- Versatile Wheels: While 26-inch wheels are the classic choice for their availability, 700c wheels are gaining popularity.
- Gearing for Mountains: Triple cranks and wide-range cassettes help you conquer everything from Alpine passes to the legendary Pamir Highway.
- Racks and Cages: You’ll need space for panniers, water bottles, and maybe even a fuel canister for your camp stove.
The iconic Surly Long Haul Trucker is a favorite among globe-trotters, but there are plenty of options to suit every rider and budget.
Plotting Your Route: Epic Journeys Await
So, where will your bike take you? There are two main types of bike tours:
- The Around-the-World Odyssey: This is the ultimate adventure, but it means putting your life on hold for a year—or more.
- The Regional Expedition: More manageable for most people, this involves picking a start and end point (say, London to Istanbul), cycling across continents, and flying home with your bike as checked luggage.
Why do so many choose the point-to-point journey? Simple: it lets you cover more ground, see more countries, and experience the dramatic shifts in culture and landscape that make Europe so magical. The London-to-Istanbul route is legendary, crossing 11 countries in about seven weeks. It’s a kaleidoscope of languages, foods, and scenery—a true feast for the senses.
The EuroVelo 6: Europe’s Ultimate Bike Path
Much of the journey from London to Istanbul follows the EuroVelo 6, one of Europe’s most famous cycling routes. With well-marked paths and dedicated bike lanes, it’s a dream for riders of all levels. You’ll glide through storybook villages, bustling cities, and breathtaking countryside, all while soaking up the rich tapestry of European culture.
Accommodation: From Wild Camping to Cozy Hostels
One of the joys of bike touring is the sheer variety of places you’ll sleep. Here’s what you can expect:
- Wild Camping: Pitch your tent under the stars, far from the noise of civilization. There’s nothing like waking up to birdsong and fresh air.
- Hostels: These are the social hubs of the bike touring world. Swap stories, share meals, and pick up tips from fellow adventurers. Hostels are especially valuable in remote areas or along famous routes like the Pamir Highway.
- Front Yards: Sometimes, the best spot for the night is someone’s lawn. Many tourers knock on doors at dusk, asking for permission to camp. You might even get invited in for a meal!
- Police and Fire Stations: For safety, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a woman, these can be secure places to spend the night.
- Inns, Motels, and Roadhouses: Perfect for those who want a hot shower and a soft bed after a long day in the saddle. This is also the preferred style for “bikepackers,” who travel light and fast.
No matter where you stay, each night brings new stories and new friends.
Food, Fellowship, and the Joys of the Road
Bike touring isn’t just about the ride—it’s about the connections you make along the way. Sharing a meal at a hostel, swapping route tips, or joining a local family for dinner are the moments that transform a trip into an adventure.
Hostels and campsites are more than just places to sleep; they’re gathering points for the global bike touring tribe. Here, you’ll find camaraderie, laughter, and the kind of advice you won’t get from any guidebook. You’ll also find a helping hand when it comes to bike repairs, route planning, and the occasional pep talk when the going gets tough.
Legends of the Road: Inspiration for Your Journey
Still need a little push to get started? Meet some of the legends who’ve paved the way:
Dervla Murphy: The late Irish author and cyclist spent 50 years exploring the world on two wheels. Her books are a masterclass in travel writing, filled with insight, humor, and a deep love for the people and places she encountered. If you find her work in a secondhand bookstore, don’t hesitate—her stories will transport you.
Jin Jeong: This South Korean adventurer set out at 24, learned English on the road, and has covered over 100,000 kilometers across six continents. Her journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and resilience. Jin’s honest, unfiltered storytelling (check out her YouTube channel) offers a raw and refreshing look at life on the road, from the deserts of Australia to the edge of the Arctic Circle.
Mat and Harriet: This dynamic duo cycled from London to Istanbul in 96 days, capturing their adventure on video and inspiring others to follow in their tire tracks. Their vlogs are a beautiful blend of scenery, storytelling, and practical advice—perfect for anyone considering a similar journey.
Why Wait? Your Adventure Awaits
Seven weeks off work might sound like a lot, but what’s that compared to a lifetime of memories? Bike touring is more than a trip—it’s a transformation. You’ll see the world at a human pace, savoring every hill, every meal, and every conversation. You’ll discover strengths you never knew you had and return home with a new appreciation for the simple joys of life.
So, dust off your old bike, start dreaming up your route, and take the first pedal stroke toward adventure. Whether you’re crossing Europe, circumnavigating the globe, or just exploring your own backyard, the world is waiting—and there’s no better way to see it than from the saddle of a touring bike.
Give it a go. Your story is just beginning.