What to Pack for a Cycling Holiday

Going on a cycling holiday can bring out tonnes of excitement, and whether you’re cycling on an island in Thailand or along the golden beaches of Mykonos, adventure and fitness are imminent. Cycling holidays are as intense as they are rewarding, offering a healthy challenge that will push you to your limits! We’ve all been in this situation before - you go to get something out of your backpack only to realize you’ve never packed it in the first place! We’re celebrating National Bike Week this June by putting together a list of all of the essentials you need to make your cycling holiday one you’ll never forget!

Keep Yourself Nourished

Caption: Woman hydrating on beach bike ride

It may seem like common sense, but we need to keep our bodies nourished and hydrated on these sweat-inducing holidays. Our bodies need energy to power through paths, and this doesn’t just mean bringing a water bottle. Don’t learn the hard way what it would feel like when you run out of energy on your biking tour of China!

There are a few items that every traveller should bring on their cycling holiday, starting with hydration tablets. Also known as electrolyte tabs, these tablets are found in most pharmacies and offer electrolytes and other minerals that our bodies need to stay hydrated. You can put them in your water bottle (another item not to forget!) and they simply dissolve. It’s also a great idea to bring some form of snack or food source, such as a granola or protein bar. Energy gels are also a great shout - they are vegan, low-sugar pouches that can replenish your carbohydrate levels, which is one of the most common ways of feeling fatigued.

What You Wear Matters

Caption: Man cycling in a grassy area on a sunny day.

Though it may not be out of the ordinary to cycle leisurely in your everyday attire, more physically demanding holidays such as the Mountain Electric Bike Tour at the Palacio Estoril may call for more appropriate clothing. You should ideally bring one pair of padded shorts for each day you’ll be cycling, as well as cycling tops or t-shirts that are comfortable and not too baggy. Cycling jerseys are also perfect for comfort and practicality. In addition, you can’t always predict the weather so a lightweight jacket would be an excellent choice. Many companies sell windbreakers or light jackets that can compress into a pocket-sized ball.

Of course, safety comes before anything and a helmet is the top priority! A sturdy pair of biking shoes is also important! Lastly, a nice pair of sunglasses will come in handy as well as biking gloves to prevent calluses! Bringing a small and lightweight rucksack would be an excellent move on your holiday.

Other Important Bits & Bobs

Caption: Man holding up a disposable camera and sunscreen

One important item that cyclists will need to protect themselves is a strong sunscreen. Many dermatologists recommend a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to block out the highest percentage of the Sun’s rays. It’s also a common misconception that you only need sunscreen on sunny days, even on cloudy days we can still be exposed to UV rays!

In addition, you probably already expect to bring your phone - but did you ever think to bring a disposable camera? Capture the gorgeous scenery of the British coastline in a unique way that isn’t a phone camera! Disposable cameras are often waterproof and more durable than our smartphones, and they’re a more fun way to take photos of the beauty surrounding you!

It’s also sensible for you to bring a small first aid kit, a battery pack for your smartphone, a phone mount for your bicycle or the bicycle offered on the retreat, and finally don’t forget your passport! Have a great time exploring the world’s natural beauty while improving your fitness and wellness!