Bikepacking: The Latest Trend in Adventure Travel

Are you an adventure traveler looking for a new way to explore the great outdoors? Look no further than bikepacking. Bikepacking is a combination of bike touring and backpacking, allowing you to travel long distances on a bicycle while carrying all of your gear with you. In this blog post, we’ll explore the latest trend in adventure travel and share everything you need to know about bikepacking.

What is Bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a form of adventure travel that involves cycling over long distances while carrying all of your gear with you. This can include a tent, sleeping bag, stove, food, and clothing. Unlike traditional bike touring, which often involves staying in hotels or hostels, bikepackers camp in remote locations, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in nature.

Why is Bikepacking So Popular?

Bikepacking has become increasingly popular in recent years for several reasons. First and foremost, it allows travelers to get off the beaten path and explore remote areas that are inaccessible by car. Bikepacking also provides a sense of freedom and self-sufficiency that’s hard to find in other forms of travel. And, of course, there’s the physical challenge of cycling long distances with all of your gear on your back.

Where Can You Go Bikepacking?

Bikepacking can be done in a variety of locations, from remote backcountry trails to paved roads through scenic landscapes. Some popular destinations for bikepacking include:

1. The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route: This 2,700-mile route runs from Banff, Canada, to the Mexican border, following the Rocky Mountains through the US.
2. The TransAmerica Trail: This 4,200-mile route runs from Virginia to Oregon, passing through the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Plains, and the Rockies.
3. The Pacific Coast Route: This 2,000-mile route runs from Canada to Mexico, following the Pacific coastline through California, Oregon, and Washington.
4. The Arizona Trail: This 800-mile route runs from Mexico to Utah, passing through deserts, canyons, and forests.
5. The Colorado Trail: This 500-mile route runs through the Rocky Mountains, passing through high-altitude terrain and stunning landscapes.

What Gear Do You Need for Bikepacking?

Bikepacking requires a specific set of gear that’s designed to be lightweight and compact, while still providing everything you need for an extended trip. Here are the essentials:

1. Bike: You’ll need a sturdy and reliable bike that’s capable of handling off-road terrain.
2. Packs: Instead of traditional panniers, bikepackers use frame bags, handlebar bags, and seat bags to carry their gear.
3. Tent: A lightweight and compact tent is essential for camping in remote locations.
4. Sleeping bag: Look for a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag that’s designed for backpacking.
5. Stove: A compact and lightweight stove is essential for cooking meals on the trail.
6. Water filter: Since you’ll be traveling through remote areas, a water filter is essential for purifying water from streams and rivers.
7. Clothing: Pack lightweight and quick-drying clothing that’s suitable for a variety of weather conditions.

Tips for Bikepacking

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your bikepacking adventure:

1. Plan your route carefully, taking into account the terrain, weather conditions, and available water sources.
2. Pack as light as possible, since you’ll be carrying everything with you on your bike.
3. Test out your gear before you go, to make sure everything fits and works properly.
4. Learn basic bike repair skills, since you’ll be responsible for fixing any issues that arise on the trail.