How Long Should Your Next Bikepacking Trip Be?

Bikepacking is a thrilling adventure that combines the excitement of cycling with the freedom of camping. But one question that often comes up when planning a bikepacking trip is: how long should it be? The answer, of course, depends on your goals, experience, and available time. In this article, we’ll explore the factors to consider when deciding on the length of your next bikepacking trip, from short weekend getaways to epic multi-day expeditions. So whether you’re a seasoned bikepacker or just starting out, read on to discover how to make the most of your next adventure on two wheels.

Determining the Ideal Length for Your Bikepacking Trip

Factors to Consider

• Your available time: One of the most critical factors to consider when determining the length of your bikepacking trip is the amount of time you have available. If you only have a few days to spare, you may want to plan a shorter trip that can be completed in that time frame. On the other hand, if you have a more extended period, you can plan a longer trip that will allow you to explore more remote areas and experience a greater variety of landscapes.
• Your fitness level and experience: Your fitness level and experience are also crucial factors to consider when determining the length of your bikepacking trip. If you are a beginner, it’s best to start with shorter trips and gradually work your way up to longer ones as you build your endurance and experience. If you are an experienced bikepacker, you may be able to handle longer trips with more challenging terrain.
• The distance and terrain of the route: The distance and terrain of the route you plan to take are also essential factors to consider when determining the length of your bikepacking trip. If the route is long and challenging, you may want to plan a shorter trip to avoid exhaustion and injury. On the other hand, if the route is relatively short and easy, you may be able to plan a longer trip.
• The amount of gear you want to carry: The amount of gear you want to carry is another essential factor to consider when determining the length of your bikepacking trip. If you plan to carry a lot of gear, you may want to plan a shorter trip to avoid fatigue and difficulty navigating through challenging terrain. If you plan to carry minimal gear, you may be able to plan a longer trip.

Suggested Trip Lengths

• Short trips: 1-3 days
  • Short trips are a great way to get a taste of bikepacking without committing to a longer trip. They are ideal for those who have limited time or who are new to the sport. These trips can be completed in a weekend or during a long holiday.
• Weekend trips: 3-5 days
  • Weekend trips are perfect for those who want to explore a new area or get away from it all for a few days. They can be completed in a short amount of time and can be planned around a weekend. These trips can be challenging, but they are not too difficult for experienced bikepackers.
• Week-long trips: 5-7 days
  • Week-long trips are ideal for those who want to explore a new area or take a longer break from work. They can be completed in a week and can be planned around a holiday or time off from work. These trips can be challenging, but they are not too difficult for experienced bikepackers.
• Multi-week trips: 7+ days
  • Multi-week trips are ideal for those who want to explore a new area or take a longer break from work. They can be completed in a few weeks and can be planned around a holiday or time off from work. These trips can be challenging, but they are not too difficult for experienced bikepackers. They offer the opportunity to explore new areas, meet new people, and have a truly unique experience.

Choosing the Right Route for Your Trip Length

Short Trips

Short bikepacking trips are ideal for those who have limited time or are new to the sport. These trips can range from a few hours to a day or two and can be completed on a variety of terrain types.

Local Loops and Out-and-Back Rides

Local loops and out-and-back rides are perfect for those who want to explore their local area while getting a taste of bikepacking. These rides can be as short as a few miles and can be completed in a few hours. They are great for getting a feel for the sport and for building confidence before taking on longer trips.

Scenic Single-Track Trails

Scenic single-track trails are a great option for short bikepacking trips. These trails are typically narrow and winding, providing a fun and challenging ride. They can be found in many areas, including state and national parks, and offer a chance to experience the beauty of nature while getting some exercise.

Gravel and Dirt Road Rides

Gravel and dirt road rides are another option for short bikepacking trips. These rides typically take place on unpaved roads and can be completed in a day or two. They offer a chance to explore remote areas and experience a variety of terrain types, including gravel, dirt, and mud.

Overall, short bikepacking trips are a great way to get started in the sport or to explore your local area. They can be completed in a few hours and offer a chance to experience the beauty of nature while getting some exercise.

Weekend Trips

If you’re looking for a shorter bikepacking trip, a weekend getaway is a great option. With this type of trip, you can still experience the thrill of bikepacking without committing to a longer journey. Here are some factors to consider when planning a weekend bikepacking trip:

Point-to-point routes with a mix of terrain

Weekend bikepacking trips often involve point-to-point routes that take you from one location to another. These routes can be a mix of different terrains, such as gravel roads, singletrack trails, and fire roads. This variety keeps the ride interesting and allows you to explore different types of landscapes. When choosing a point-to-point route, consider the distance and the amount of climbing involved. You want to make sure the route is challenging but doable within the timeframe of a weekend.

Self-supported camping trips

One of the best parts of bikepacking is the opportunity to camp in remote locations. For a weekend trip, you can plan a self-supported camping trip, where you carry all your gear and supplies on your bike. This type of trip allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and experience the great outdoors in a unique way. When planning a self-supported camping trip, consider the availability of water sources and campsites along the route. You’ll also want to make sure you have enough food and supplies to last for the duration of the trip.

Bikepacking races and challenges

If you’re looking for a more structured weekend bikepacking trip, you can consider signing up for a bikepacking race or challenge. These events typically involve a set route with designated checkpoints, and they often take place over a weekend. Participating in a race or challenge is a great way to push yourself and test your skills against other riders. It’s also a fun way to meet other bikepacking enthusiasts and share stories and experiences. When signing up for a race or challenge, make sure to check the route and requirements in advance to ensure you’re prepared for the distance and terrain.

Week-long Trips

When planning a week-long bikepacking trip, there are a variety of routes to choose from that cater to different skill levels and preferences. Here are some popular options to consider:

Cross-country routes that cover diverse terrain

For those looking to experience a mix of landscapes and challenges, cross-country routes are a great option. These routes often span multiple states or provinces and offer a variety of terrain, from mountainous regions to flat deserts and everything in between. Some popular cross-country routes include the Trans-America Trail, which covers over 4,000 miles from West Coast to East Coast, and the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, which spans over 2,700 miles from Canada to Mexico.

Multi-day mountain bike races

If you’re up for a challenge and enjoy racing against the clock, multi-day mountain bike races are a great option for a week-long bikepacking trip. These races often cover several hundred miles and take place in remote locations, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature while pushing your physical limits. Some popular multi-day mountain bike races include the Tour Divide, which covers over 2,700 miles from Canada to Mexico, and the Colorado Trail Race, which covers over 500 miles through the Rocky Mountains.

Thru-hiking and bikepacking hybrid trips

For those who enjoy the challenge of thru-hiking but prefer to do it on two wheels, thru-hiking and bikepacking hybrid trips are a great option. These trips often involve covering a long distance in a single trip, often over several weeks or months, and require careful planning and preparation. Some popular thru-hiking and bikepacking hybrid trips include the Arizona Trail, which covers over 800 miles from Mexico to Utah, and the Great Western Loop, which covers over 3,000 miles through several western states.

Multi-week Trips

If you’re looking to challenge yourself and experience a truly epic adventure, multi-week bikepacking trips are an excellent option. These trips are ideal for those who want to push their limits and explore some of the most remote and beautiful regions in the world.

Epic cross-country or global adventures

Epic cross-country or global adventures are the ultimate challenge for bikepackers. These trips typically involve riding across entire countries or continents, covering thousands of miles and tackling some of the toughest terrain and weather conditions. Examples of such trips include riding the entire length of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route in the United States, or crossing the Andes Mountains from Chile to Argentina.

These trips require meticulous planning, physical and mental preparation, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Riders must be self-sufficient and able to carry all the necessary gear and supplies for extended periods of time.

Self-supported expeditions with resupply points

Self-supported expeditions with resupply points are another option for multi-week bikepacking trips. These trips involve riding a set route with pre-determined resupply points, where food and other essentials can be obtained. This type of trip allows for more flexibility than an epic cross-country or global adventure, but still requires significant planning and preparation.

An example of a self-supported expedition with resupply points is the Tour Divide, which involves riding the entire length of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route from Canada to Mexico. Riders must carry all their own gear and supplies, and rely on small towns and general stores along the route for resupply.

Long-distance bikepacking races

Long-distance bikepacking races are another option for multi-week trips. These races are typically shorter than epic cross-country or global adventures, but still require significant physical and mental endurance. Examples of such races include the Tour Divide, the Colorado Trail Race, and the Iditarod Trail Invitational.

These races are often timed, and riders must navigate a set course while carrying all their own gear and supplies. They also require meticulous planning and preparation, as well as the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges.

Overall, multi-week bikepacking trips offer a unique and challenging experience for riders who want to push their limits and explore some of the most remote and beautiful regions in the world. Whether you choose an epic cross-country or global adventure, a self-supported expedition with resupply points, or a long-distance bikepacking race, these trips require significant planning, preparation, and mental and physical endurance.

Planning Your Trip

Route Selection

When planning your bikepacking trip, the route selection is a crucial aspect that requires thorough research and consideration. Here are some tips to help you choose the best route for your next adventure:

Research and Scout Potential Routes

The first step in selecting a route is to research and scout potential routes. This involves exploring different areas and trails, reading guidebooks, and consulting online resources such as forums, blogs, and social media groups. By gathering information about different routes, you can get a better understanding of what each trail has to offer and make an informed decision about which one to take.

Consult Online Resources and Guidebooks

Another way to research potential routes is by consulting online resources and guidebooks. There are many websites and apps that provide detailed information about different trails, including maps, elevation profiles, and reviews from other riders. Guidebooks, on the other hand, offer comprehensive information about specific regions or trails, including historical and cultural insights, as well as practical advice on navigation and safety.

Consider Weather and Seasonal Factors

Weather and seasonal factors are also important considerations when selecting a route. Depending on the time of year and the location of your trip, certain trails may be impassable or dangerous due to extreme weather conditions. For example, if you’re planning a trip in the mountains during the winter, you’ll need to consider the risk of avalanches and ensure that you have the necessary equipment and skills to stay safe. On the other hand, if you’re planning a trip in the desert during the summer, you’ll need to be prepared for extreme heat and make sure you have enough water and shade to avoid dehydration.

Overall, selecting the right route is crucial to the success of your bikepacking trip. By researching and scouting potential routes, consulting online resources and guidebooks, and considering weather and seasonal factors, you can ensure that you choose a route that is both challenging and enjoyable, and that allows you to fully experience the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors.

Gear and Equipment

When planning a bikepacking trip, selecting the right bike and gear is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing your equipment:

Selecting the right bike

The type of bike you choose will depend on the terrain and the length of the trip. If you’re planning to tackle rough off-road trails, a mountain bike or a cyclocross bike with wide tires and ample suspension is recommended. For more on-road or gravel routes, a road bike or a hybrid bike with wider tires may be a better choice.

When selecting your bike, make sure it’s properly sized and adjusted to fit your body. A well-fitting bike will provide better control and comfort during your ride.

Planning meals and resupply points

Proper nutrition is essential during a bikepacking trip, especially if you’re covering long distances. Plan your meals in advance and pack enough food to sustain you throughout the trip. High-calorie, non-perishable foods such as energy bars, trail mix, and jerky are good options to consider.

In addition to packing your own food, you’ll also need to plan for resupply points along the way. Research the route ahead of time to identify towns or stores where you can restock your supplies.

Preparing for emergencies and navigation

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial when embarking on a bikepacking trip. Pack a first-aid kit, a multi-tool, and a spare tube or two. Additionally, make sure you have a map or GPS device and know how to use it for navigation.

Consider also carrying a water filter or purification tablets to ensure you have access to clean drinking water. Finally, let someone know your itinerary and expected return date, and check in with them regularly to ensure your safety.

Training and Preparation

• Building endurance and strength
  • Incorporating long rides into your training schedule
  • Gradually increasing the distance and intensity of your rides
  • Incorporating hill and mountain climbs to build leg strength
• Practicing bike maintenance and repairs
  • Learning basic bike maintenance skills such as tire changes and lubrication
  • Familiarizing yourself with the tools and equipment needed for repairs
  • Practicing repairs on your own bike or borrowing a bike for practice
• Familiarizing yourself with navigation and route-finding
  • Using maps and GPS devices to plan and navigate your route
  • Learning how to read and interpret topographical maps
  • Practicing navigation skills on shorter rides before embarking on a longer trip.

FAQs

1. How long should my first bikepacking trip be?

Answer:

As a beginner, it’s important to start small and gradually build up your endurance and skills. A good starting point for a first bikepacking trip would be a weekend ride of 2-3 days. This will give you a taste of what bikepacking is all about, while also allowing you to test out your gear and make any necessary adjustments. It’s better to start with a shorter trip and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable and confident in your abilities.

2. How long should a typical bikepacking trip be?

The length of a typical bikepacking trip can vary greatly depending on the individual and their goals. Some people may choose to do a week-long trip, while others may prefer a multi-month expedition. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the length of a bikepacking trip, but it’s important to consider your own fitness level, available time, and the route you plan to take.

3. Can I do a bikepacking trip of any length?

Yes, you can do a bikepacking trip of any length that works for you. Whether you want to do a short overnight trip or a multi-month expedition, there are countless routes and destinations to choose from. The important thing is to set realistic goals for yourself and make sure you have the necessary skills and equipment to complete your chosen route.

4. What are some factors to consider when determining the length of a bikepacking trip?

When determining the length of a bikepacking trip, there are several factors to consider. These include your fitness level, available time, and the route you plan to take. You should also consider the amount of gear you plan to carry, the climate and weather conditions, and any potential challenges or obstacles along the way. Additionally, it’s important to factor in rest days and recovery time to ensure you don’t overdo it and risk injury or burnout.

5. How can I determine the right length for my next bikepacking trip?

The right length for your next bikepacking trip will depend on your individual goals and circumstances. One way to determine the right length is to start with a shorter trip and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable and confident in your abilities. You can also consider factors such as your available time, fitness level, and the route you plan to take. It’s important to set realistic goals for yourself and make sure you have the necessary skills and equipment to complete your chosen route.