Pedaling off into the great unknown can be a most exhilarating feeling on a bright sunny day, but we humans are cursed by the need to be surrounded by our home comforts. Don’t be hindered by a forgotten toilet roll or flattened tire. Cycling and camping trips require a good deal of planning, a little packing savviness and a lot of stamina. Here are a few fabulous tips for getting the best from your two-wheel adventure.
Bike maintenance equipment
To prevent breakdowns, bring everything you need to address common mechanical issues with your beloved bike. Inner tubes, tire levers, a pump and a puncture repair kit are the bare essentials, but there are also lightweight and usually pre-packed kits that are designed with portability in mind. For extra peace of mind, some chain lube and a spare bike chain can be invaluable, and for safety and security, you’ll also need a bike lock (even just to attach your bike to the bike rack on your car) and a helmet.
Clothing
There are three key words when selecting your clothing for a summer cycling holiday: light, layerable and comfortable. A pair of cycling leggings will give your legs more freedom of movement than trousers. Arm and leg warmers can easily be rolled up 
and thrown in a backpack if you get too hot, and the same goes for an extra t-shirt. Protect your hands from blisters with a good pair of cycling gloves, and don’t venture out without sunscreen, lip balm, plenty of water and a pair of shades if the weather is fine. Don’t commit the cardinal sin of forgetting your waterproofs: even a tiny pac-a-mac slipped into the bottom of your rucksack is better than cycling the ten miles back to the campsite while being drenched relentlessly by a sudden onslaught of summer rain.
Camping gear
It takes more than a luxury three-man tent to secure your comfort, but it’s a great place to start. Camping furniture like mats, sleeping bags and lightweight stools will all enhance your experience, and since you’re cycling a folding bike might come in handy For food, bring along a coolbox, a small camping stove and some metal tins to eat from. Paper towels, baby wipes and antibacterial hand sanitizer will help you keep things clean. A couple of LED lanterns will cast a cheery glow when suspended from the interior of the tent at night.
Camping and cycling can seem like an epic undertaking, but as long as you’re organized in your approach, it needn’t be all uphill. Pack light, plan your itinerary well in advance so you know what to expect, and you’ll soon be standing atop a scenic hill, marveling at the view and wondering what all the fuss was about.
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