For many aspiring bikepackers, the first obstacle to overcome isn’t a steep climb or a technical trail, but the concern of their loved ones. This is especially true for those who have never participated in an event or embarked on a cycling journey before—it’s normal for both participants and their families to have some concerns and uncertainties. We know the most common worries: the fear that you might get lost in remote areas, the risk of accidents, or the concern that you might find yourself alone in difficult situations. Add to this the worry about fundamental practical aspects: where will you eat? Where will you sleep? Will there be safe places to rest and refuel along the way? In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to reassure your loved ones about the experience you’re about to face and convince even the most apprehensive ones that participating in an organized bikepacking event is a fantastic way to start.
“Are you sure it’s safe?”
When participating in an organized event, you’re never truly alone. The organization provides a detailed GPS track of the route, carefully studied and tested. This means there’s no risk of getting lost or finding yourself in unpleasant situations.
Here’s something that will reassure your loved ones: every single route has been personally tested multiple times by the team. We ride these tracks ourselves, checking every turn, every descent, and every possible challenging section. We wouldn’t send you anywhere we haven’t been ourselves – multiple times! This means that when your family asks “Are you sure it’s safe?”, you can confidently tell them that the route has been thoroughly verified by experienced cyclists who know exactly what they’re doing.
The GPS tracking system allows you to follow the route with precision. Before departure, a detailed briefing provides all necessary information on how to tackle the journey, points of interest along the route, and practical advice to make the most of your experience.
New to GPS navigation? Check out our guide on how to read and follow a GPS track
“Where will you sleep?” – Perfect Preparation (Together!)
One of the best things about organized events is the ability to study the route in advance.
Receiving the track well ahead of time offers the opportunity to:
- Analyze each stage in detail
- Identify points of interest and rest stops
- Plan daily distances based on your own pace
- Locate accommodations, campgrounds, and food stops
- Prepare a Plan B for each stage
For example, you might plan to end a stage in a town with various accommodation options, or identify a particularly scenic campground to spend the night. Or you can locate supermarkets along the route to stock up on food and water for more isolated sections.
Here’s something your family and friends will love: you can explore the entire journey together before it even starts. Every participant receives the GPS track weeks before the event – this means you can sit down with your loved ones and show them exactly where you’ll be riding. You can point out the towns you’ll pass through, the beautiful spots where you’ll take breaks, and where you plan to sleep each night. When they ask “Where will you stay?”, you’ll have already identified all the accommodation options along the way!
Furthermore, with registration to the Bike Adventure Series, you get free access to all preparation guides and articles to read and share with your loved ones, involving them in trip preparation. This shared approach helps build trust and understanding around the event, demonstrating how well-organized and planned everything is. Involve your loved ones in choosing the most suitable setup, show them images of the places you’ll cross, the cities you’ll encounter along the route, and videos from previous editions of the events – it always works 😉 And if you’re wondering how to pack efficiently for your adventure, read our article on the essential checklist for a bikepacking event.
No Longer Alone, But in Great Company
Here’s another reassuring aspect: organized events aren’t solitary adventures. Every day, you’ll be sharing the road with other participants from all over the world. From morning coffees to evening meals, you’ll be part of a community of passionate cyclists. When your family asks “But won’t you be alone?”, you can tell them about all the cyclist you’ll meet – from experienced bikepackers eager to share their knowledge to fellow first-timers just as excited as you are about the adventure ahead.
Participants come from different parts of the world, with varying levels of experience – from veterans with thousands of kilometers in their legs to newcomers on their first adventure. This diversity creates an environment rich in exchange and continuous learning. Evenings at campgrounds or hostels become opportunities to exchange stories, compare equipment, and plan the next stages together.
Staying Connected: Effective Communication
Here’s how we make sure your family and friends stay informed: together, you’ll establish a simple but effective communication routine. You can send a morning message before starting your day and an evening update once you’re settled. Your loved ones won’t have to wonder where you are – they’ll know exactly what part of the route you’re on and when to expect your next check-in. And with today’s technology, sharing your location in real-time is easier than ever.
To best manage communication during the event:
- Bring a power bank to keep your phone charged
- Download offline maps of the route
- Set your phone to power-saving mode
- Use messaging apps that work even with weak signals
Technology offers various tools for sharing your location. You can share the event’s GPS track, allowing family members to know exactly which route you’re following. Additionally, you can activate real-time location sharing through your smartphone or use specific GPS tracking devices particularly useful in areas with poor phone coverage.
Unforgettable Memories
Here’s a special touch that your loved ones will appreciate: throughout the event, professional photographers will be capturing your journey. No more shaky selfies – instead, your loved ones will receive beautiful, high-quality photos of you enjoying this amazing adventure. These aren’t just photos; they’re reassurance that you’re having fun, and creating memories that you’ll soon share with them.
Make It a Shared Experience
Why not involve your family in the adventure itself? Loved ones can accompany participants to the event, attend the presentation, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere before the departure. While you’re cycling, they can take the opportunity to explore the local area, visit nearby attractions, or even indulge in wine tastings or regional culinary experiences. This transforms your bikepacking trip into a shared mini-vacation, offering something exciting for everyone.
By sharing the event in this way, your family can feel part of the experience, cheering you on at the start and celebrating your achievements at the finish. It’s a great way to combine adventure with quality time together.
Participating in an organized bikepacking event is the best way to approach this wonderful world. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to experience great adventures safely and in company. It’s not a leap into the dark, but a structured, safe experience rich in opportunities.
New here? Start now.
Create an account to access your Dashboard and connect with the community.
You must be logged in to post a comment.