One of the unique aspects of the Tuscany Trail is that it’s considered a testing ground for many cyclists new to bikepacking. With 4,700 participants expected in 2025, there will be over a thousand people experiencing bikepacking for the first time.
For this reason, we want to provide you with practical tips that will be invaluable during this event and beyond. While the Tuscany Trail offers both a classic 430km route and a new beginner-friendly 160km option, proper preparation is key for any distance you choose.
Managing the Heat
As you know, the Tuscany Trail starts on May 21-22-23, 2025, in Campiglia Marittima (with flexible start times). It might seem obvious, but May can be quite warm in Tuscany.
It could be very hot, and you’ll be physically active constantly for 4-5 days. Never underestimate hydration. If you tend to forget to drink, set a reminder on your bike computer or phone every 30 minutes to help you remember to take a sip from your water bottle.
Hydration is crucial in physical activity, including your bikepacking adventure at the Tuscany Trail. To give you some basic guidelines: water is essential in the chemical process that occurs in our body when we need to produce energy (which is constantly). If your body is short on water, you simply won’t have the strength to pedal.
We recommend carrying at least two water bottles, with one being an insulated bottle to keep water cold for several hours. Besides water, we recommend bringing electrolyte tablets or powders. Most fatigue comes from losing these minerals from your body, which isn’t easy to replenish on the road – you can’t really carry a basket of bananas and a bag of oranges on your bike.
Water Refill Points
During our route testing, we found numerous public fountains, which you can mark on your track. If you use an app or software with Open Street Maps, you can search for “Public Fountains” and mark them as waypoints on the track, or find them on-site using the search functions.
Also keep an eye on highlights marked by the local community – they might indicate new supply points not marked on Open Maps. The new Base Camps introduced for 2025 will also provide reliable water refill points.
Weather Strategy
Even though we’ll be in spring-like summer conditions, remember it might rain. Keep a rain kit in your bags that includes a waterproof jacket, waterproof overpants, waterproof shoe covers, and waterproof pouches for your wallet, phone, and other valuables.
We recommend using waterproof bikepacking bags for your journey. If you don’t have waterproof bags, don’t worry – you can work around this by putting all your items in waterproof pouches before placing them in your bags. This also helps organize your materials for easier access.
Temperature Management
While it will likely be warm, be prepared for sudden temperature changes. You won’t need a down jacket, but consider bringing a slightly heavier, long-sleeved jersey. A windbreaker is mandatory. Check the weather forecast before departing and pack accordingly.
Remember to Eat
When it’s hot, it’s not always easy to remember to eat, but try to keep dried fruits, energy bars, or gels in your handlebar bags to consume at least every hour. Remember that while cycling, you’ll burn lots of energy that needs to be replenished with quick-absorbing carbohydrates, otherwise you might hit the dreaded wall that’s hard to recover from.
Again, we recommend setting a reminder on your bike computer or phone. Fortunately, you’ll be in Tuscany, so finding good food won’t be a problem. For lunch and dinner, we strongly recommend trying local cuisine in the many taverns, restaurants, and establishments along the route.
Basic Repair Kit
It’s good practice to be self-sufficient if mechanical issues arise during the route. Whether you’re running tubeless or tubular, carry at least 2 spare tubes and basic repair tools. A well-prepared repair kit should include a multi-tool with all bike-appropriate wrenches, a tubeless repair kit if needed, and a reliable hand pump.
For additional protection, consider using a tubeless tire insert system if you’re running tubeless. These protective inserts provide an extra layer of security against flats while allowing you to continue riding even with a puncture.
Be Realistic
The Tuscany Trail is not a race, and you’ll notice the relaxed atmosphere right from registration. As mentioned earlier, this event is excellent for beginning bike travelers, but you’ll still need to pedal and conquer Tuscan hills.
For these reasons, be realistic in planning your stages and remember you’ll be in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. Take time for breaks and enjoy it fully without introducing stress while riding: divide it into distances and climbs that match your fitness level or how you want to experience the Tuscany Trail.
Have Fun
If this is your first bikepacking experience, the main thing is to have fun and remember to do so. You’ll be on a beautiful track with many people sharing your passion: take time to enjoy it! The new Base Camp system for 2025 provides excellent opportunities to meet fellow riders and share experiences while ensuring comfortable rest stops along your journey.
Remember, whether you choose the classic 430km route or the new 160km beginner-friendly option, the Tuscany Trail is about the journey, not the destination. Take time to explore the medieval towns, savor the local cuisine, and create lasting memories in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.
Tuscany Trail 2025 Checklist
Hydration Essentials:
- Carry at least two water bottles
- Consider one insulated bottle to keep water cool
- Set hydration reminders every 30 minutes
- Use electrolyte tablets or powder supplements
- Plan your water refills using the many public fountains along the route
Finding Water Sources:
- Use navigation apps to mark public fountains as waypoints
- Check local community highlights for water sources
- Always carry enough water between resupply points
- Base Camps will have water available
Weather Preparation: Despite typically warm weather, be prepared for various conditions. Essential gear includes:
Rain Protection:
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Waterproof overpants
- Shoe covers
- Waterproof pouches for electronics and documents
Temperature Management:
- Light but warm long-sleeve layer
- Windproof jacket (essential)
- Arm and leg warmers
- Light gloves for morning starts
Equipment and Storage Luggage:
- Waterproof bikepacking bags (handlebar, frame, and saddle bags)
- Alternative: Use dry bags inside regular bikepacking bags
- Organize items in separate waterproof pouches for easy access
Basic Repair Kit:
- Multi-tool with bike-appropriate wrenches
- Tubeless repair kit (if using tubeless)
- Hand pump
- 2 spare inner tubes
- Tire levers
- Basic bike-specific tools
- Patch kit
Planning Your Journey: The Tuscany Trail embraces a “no race” philosophy. Key points to remember:
- Plan realistic daily distances
- Take time to enjoy medieval towns like Siena, Monteriggioni, and Pienza
- Use Base Camps for overnight stays and community experience
- Explore the famous Strade Bianche sections at your own pace
Nutrition Strategy: Proper fueling is crucial:
- Carry easily accessible snacks in your handlebar bag
- Pack energy-dense foods (dried fruits, bars, energy gels)
- Eat something small every hour while riding
- Take advantage of local restaurants and cafes
- Experience Tuscan cuisine during longer stops
- Set eating reminders on your device
Navigation and Safety:
- Download the official GPS track
- Carry a backup power bank
- Keep emergency numbers handy
- Know the locations of Base Camps
- Share your planned route with someone
- Use tracking apps if available
Community Experience: Remember that the Tuscany Trail is more than just cycling:
- Connect with fellow riders at Base Camps
- Share experiences with the international community
- Take photos of the stunning landscapes
- Enjoy the local culture and cuisine
- Respect the environment and local communities
For Beginners: If this is your first bikepacking experience:
- Choose the appropriate route for your level (consider the 160km option)
- Test all your equipment before the event
- Practice loading and unloading your bags
- Get comfortable with basic bike maintenance
- Start with conservative daily distances
- Listen to your body and rest when needed
