How to plan a (successful) family cycling vacation

As a dad of two, I know how important it is to plan fun and engaging family vacations that keep the whole family entertained and happy. Cycling vacations have become a favorite in our household, combining adventure, fresh air, and quality family time. They’re a great way to get kids excited about cycling. In this post, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences, helpful tips, and a step-by-step guide on how to plan the perfect family cycling vacation that everyone will love.

Why Choose a Cycling Vacation?

In this section, I’ll outline the key benefits of choosing a cycling vacation for your family, explaining how these trips offer not only fun but also valuable life lessons and experiences. So, grab a cup of tea and let’s dive into the wonderful world of family cycling vacations together!

Health Benefits: Not only is cycling a fun activity for the whole family, but it also comes with a range of health benefits. Cycling is a low-impact exercise that can help improve cardiovascular fitness, increase muscle strength, and aid in weight management. Plus, it’s an excellent way to keep the kids active and burn off some of their energy!

Environmentally Friendly: We all know how important it is to teach our kids about the importance of taking care of our planet. A cycling vacation is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional vacations, producing fewer carbon emissions compared to traveling by car or plane.

Bonding Time: Cycling vacations offer the perfect opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories together. There’s nothing quite like exploring new destinations together and overcoming challenges as a family.

Budget-Friendly: Cycling vacations can be a cost-effective way to travel, especially if you’re on a tight budget (aren’t we all?) With the right planning, you can save money on transportation, accommodation, and activities, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic vacation without breaking the bank.

Discovering Hidden Gems: When you’re cycling, you have the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and discover hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. It’s an incredible way to experience the local culture and beauty of your chosen destination.

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of a family cycling vacation, let’s dive into the planning process!

Step 1: Choose Your Destination

The first step in planning your family cycling vacation is choosing the perfect destination. Consider the interests of your family members, the type of terrain you’d like to explore, and any must-see attractions or experiences you’d like to include. It’s important to remember that you don’t need to travel far or even outside the USA to find great cycling destinations. Sometimes, the best adventures can be found right in your local area or home state.

Some popular family-friendly cycling destinations include

• The Netherlands: With its flat terrain, picturesque countryside, and extensive network of well-maintained bike paths, The Netherlands is a cycling paradise for families
• The Loire Valley, France: Known for its stunning chateaux, vineyards, and charming villages, the Loire Valley offers a variety of family-friendly cycling routes
• Mallorca, Spain: This beautiful Mediterranean island boasts a variety of terrain, from flat coastal paths to challenging mountain climbs, making it a fantastic destination for families of varying skill levels

Local and Regional Destinations

Don’t overlook the potential for amazing cycling adventures right in your backyard! Many states and local areas offer excellent cycling routes and attractions that are perfect for a family vacation. Some ideas to consider:

State and National Parks: Many state and national parks have dedicated cycling paths and trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty and wildlife up close. Research parks in your region to find family-friendly routes.

Rail Trails: Converted from old railway lines, rail trails often provide flat, well-maintained paths perfect for family cycling. These trails can be found all across the USA, offering a unique way to explore the local landscape and history.

Bike-friendly Cities: Some cities are known for their bike-friendly infrastructure and culture, making them great destinations for a family cycling vacation. Examples include Portland, Oregon (from the scenic Oregon coast to the lush Willamette Valley, there’s a wealth of cycling routes for families to explore in this diverse state); Boulder, Colorado; and Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Scenic Byways and Country Roads: Research scenic byways and picturesque country roads in your state that are suitable for cycling. These routes often pass through charming towns, historical sites, and beautiful landscapes, providing an enjoyable and engaging experience for the whole family.

When choosing a local or regional destination, consider factors such as distance from your home, available accommodations, and the variety of attractions and activities available. This will ensure that your family cycling vacation is both convenient and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Step 2: Determine the Length of Your Trip

Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to decide on the length of your cycling vacation. This will depend on your family’s experience and fitness levels, as well as your available vacation time. For first-time family cycling trips, I recommend starting with a shorter trip, such as a long weekend, to see how everyone enjoys it before committing to a longer vacation.

Step 3: Plan Your Route

With your destination and trip length in mind, it’s time to plan your cycling route. When planning your route, consider the following factors:

Daily distance: Aim for a daily cycling distance that is manageable for everyone in the family, keeping in mind the ages and fitness levels of your children. As a rule of thumb, younger children (5-10 years) can usually manage 10-15 miles per day, while older kids (10-15 years) can handle 15-25 miles per day.

Terrain: Choose a route that is appropriate for your family’s skill level. If you have younger children or less experienced cyclists, opt for flatter terrain and well-maintained bike paths.

Attractions and stops: Incorporate plenty of interesting stops and attractions along your route, such as parks, museums, and historical sites, to keep the kids engaged and excited throughout the trip.

Re-fueling: Don’t forget to plan for snack and meal breaks, as well as opportunities for rest and relaxation.

Accommodation: Research and book family-friendly accommodations along your route, such as campgrounds, hotels, or vacation rentals. Keep in mind your family’s preferences and budget when choosing your accommodations.

Step 4: Gear Up

Having the right gear is essential for a successful and enjoyable family cycling vacation. Here’s a list of items to consider when gearing up for your trip:

Bikes: Ensure that all family members have properly fitted and well-maintained bikes. If you don’t own bikes or prefer not to transport them, consider renting bikes at your destination.

Helmets: Safety first! Make sure everyone has a properly fitted and comfortable cycling helmet.

Bike trailers or tag-alongs: For younger children who aren’t ready to cycle independently, bike trailers or tag-alongs are a great solution, allowing them to be towed behind an adult’s bike.

Panniers or bike racks: Invest in quality panniers or bike racks to carry your belongings during your trip.

Cycling clothing: Choose comfortable, breathable clothing that is suitable for the weather conditions at your destination. Don’t forget padded cycling shorts for added comfort!

Bike repair kit: Bring along a basic bike tool kit, including a spare inner tube, patch kit, tire levers, and a multi-tool. Knowing how to perform basic bike repairs, such as fixing a flat tire, is also helpful.

Navigation: Plan your route in advance and bring along maps or a GPS device to help with navigation. A smartphone with a navigation app can also work well.

Water bottles and snacks: Staying hydrated and fueled is essential during a cycling vacation. Bring water bottles for each family member and pack plenty of healthy snacks to keep everyone energized.

First aid kit: Accidents can happen, so it’s important to be prepared with a well-stocked cycling-specific first aid kit.

Step 5: Train as a Family

Before embarking on your family cycling vacation, it’s a good idea to train together to ensure everyone is comfortable on their bikes and prepared for the adventure ahead. Schedule regular family bike rides leading up to your trip, gradually increasing the distance and difficulty to help build stamina and confidence.

Step 6: Plan for Fun and Relaxation

While cycling is the main focus of your vacation, it’s important to plan for fun and relaxation as well. Make sure to schedule downtime each day for non-cycling activities and opportunities to unwind. This will help keep the trip enjoyable and prevent burnout, especially for younger family members.

Here are some specific ideas for activities to include in your itinerary:

Sightseeing: Explore local attractions such as museums, historical sites, and landmarks. This not only adds variety to your trip but also provides an educational aspect for the whole family.

Swimming: If your route includes lakes, rivers, or beaches, plan some time for swimming and water-based activities. This can be a refreshing and enjoyable way for the family to cool off after a day of cycling.

Hiking and Nature Walks: Take advantage of any nearby hiking trails or nature reserves to immerse yourselves in the local flora and fauna. This can also be a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy a different form of physical activity.

Picnics: Pack a delicious picnic and enjoy a leisurely outdoor meal in a scenic location. This is a great opportunity for family bonding and relaxation, while also refueling for the next leg of your journey.

Local Events and Festivals: Research local events and festivals happening during your trip and incorporate them into your itinerary. This can be an exciting way to experience local culture and create lasting memories.

Bike-Free Days: Depending on the length of your vacation, consider scheduling one or more bike-free days for the family to rest and recharge. Use this time to explore the area on foot or engage in non-cycling activities.

Evening Entertainment: Plan fun evening activities such as family game nights, movie nights, or stargazing. This provides a chance to unwind and connect after a day of cycling.

Culinary Experiences: Discover local cuisine by visiting popular restaurants, cafes, or food markets. This can be a fun and delicious way to learn about the local culture and indulge in some well-earned treats.

Guided Tours: If available, consider joining guided tours in the area, such as city walking tours, boat tours, or even winery tours (for the adults, of course). These guided experiences can provide fascinating insights and expose you to unique aspects of the destination.

Outdoor Activities: Depending on your family’s interests and the available options in your destination, consider incorporating other outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fishing, or kayaking to mix things up and add more excitement to your trip.

By planning a balanced itinerary that includes fun and relaxation alongside your cycling adventures, you’ll ensure that everyone stays engaged and energized throughout the trip. Remember to remain flexible and open to adjusting your plans as needed to accommodate the needs and preferences of your family members.

Now, it’s your turn

Planning a family cycling vacation can be a rewarding and memorable experience for everyone involved. By carefully selecting your destination, route, and accommodations, and ensuring that everyone is well-prepared with the right gear and training, you’ll be well on your way to creating lasting memories and bonding with your loved ones. Remember to prioritize safety, stay flexible, and most importantly, have fun!

As a dad who has enjoyed several successful family cycling vacations, I can assure you that the effort and planning are well worth it. Not only will you create precious memories together, but you’ll also instill a love of adventure and the great outdoors in your children that will last a lifetime.

I can’t wait to hear about your adventures on two wheels. Don’t forget to share your stories and tips in the comments below – let’s support and inspire each other as we explore the world with our families, one pedal stroke at a time.