Tips for preparing your hike with Bicybags
1. Choice and planning of the route
Where do you want to hike? How many days do you want to leave? How many kilometers are you ready to travel each day? Once you have answered these questions, you will be able to plan your route. You can refer to the map on our home page as well as the many hiking guides available on Cartovelo to fix and define each stage of your stay.
2. Choice of accommodation
Once you’ve planned your route and its duration, you’re probably wondering where to sleep? Whether you are a fan of the soft bed or the inflatable mattress, many accommodations are available. Among them you will find hotels, lodges or guesthouses or even campsites. As part of a cycling trip, we recommend “bike reception” accommodation, which has all the essential services. Other alternatives: collaborative platforms (like Warmshower for example).
Find the accommodation lists on the hiking guides.
3. Orient yourself
GPS, maps and hiking guides or both? Today many hikers choose both. Planning the route by referring to the many published guides is a pleasure which it would be a shame to miss:
- Maps or hiking guides to find on the Cartovelo online bookstore.
- GPS. Many GPS applications specialized in hiking exist. Easily find the gpx traces of the routes along the Vélodyssée, Vélo Francette and Flow Vélo on the France Vélo Tourisme website.
4. Your equipment
Remember to equip yourself well! Although it is no longer compulsory from 12 years old, it is advisable to wear a helmet. Cyclist gloves can be added comfort. Make sure you feel comfortable and dry in your clothes. For this, here are some tips:
The principle of the 4 layers:
- A first layer close to the body such as a short-sleeved t-shirt in synthetic or merino fabric.
- A fine insulating layer like a fine fleece or long-sleeved merino sweater.
- The windbreaker or K-way to pass between the drops and resist the wind blows.
- If the season is cool, the last layer such as the fleece jacket or down jacket will be necessary.
Remember to bring repair equipment so as not to find yourself blocked in the event of a breakdown.
>> Option available with Bicybags
5. How to reach your starting point
If your starting point is not outside your front door, here are the possibilities to reach it with or without a bike:
- By train. The rail network adapts to cyclists, be sure to inquire before your departure if you wish to embark your personal bike
- By bus. Some buses are able to take bicycles, also remember to inquire beforehand.
- By car. Car sharing is also a solution if you are not carrying your personal bicycle.
>> Renting your bike on site makes it easier to reach your starting point.