Family biking holidays

I have always wanted to do a biking holiday with the kids but haven't really worked out the best way to do it. Right now i have a 9 year old and a 4 year old. The 4 year old can't really ride a bike yet (well he can't ride a bike, lets face it, i blame it on covid) and the 9 year old can ride really well even better than me. This blog post explores some of the main options for a family biking holiday in europe. 

If you have any experience yourself i'd love to hear from you! Here are some of the areas I would like to explore in this blog post.

Questions to consider when deciding what kind of holiday to do:

What is your level of cycling?

What is your budget?

How long do you want to holiday for?

Location -Are there are any countries or places that you would prefer to go to?

How much experience do you have in bicycle maintenance?

How much luggage do you want to carry around with you on the bike?

Now to look at some answers to the above questions that will help to narrow down the best option for a cycling holiday for you and your family.

What is your level of cycling?

This question is relevant because even if you don't have loads of cycling experience it doesn't mean that you can't do a bicycle holiday. Its worth thinking about the level of cycling that your kids are at too, often they have even more energy than the adults but obviously their legs need to pedal a lot faster on their smaller bicycles.

Location

Are there are any countries or places that you would prefer to go to? If you are going to go on a self guided trip then you might want to consider language barriers and choose somewhere to go where you can speak the language. You should look for the right terrain as well as the weather for cycling in these different locations, afterall you don't want to be cycling somewhere that is. going to be too hot during the day when you would be out on your bicycle.

This below link takes you to a great guide about cycling weather in different countries. https://www.epicroadrides.com/bike-trip-planning/cycling-weather/

 Here are some tips on how to get started on your first family biking holiday.

To prepare for a family cycling holiday, start by ensuring that everyone has suitable bikes and safety gear. Check that each bike is in good condition, with properly inflated tires and working brakes. Adjust the seat heights to ensure comfort and proper riding posture for each family member. Don't forget helmets and reflective gear for added safety, especially if you'll be riding on roads. Having the right pannier bags for each family member also helps to spread the load for snacks, jackets and other essentials. 

Plan your route carefully, considering the skill levels and preferences of all family members. Choose routes with appropriate distances and difficulty levels, taking into account any younger or less experienced cyclists. Look for family-friendly cycling paths, parks, or scenic routes that offer a mix of interesting sights and manageable terrain. Consider stops along the way for breaks, snacks, and attractions to keep everyone engaged and motivated.

Pack essential items such as water bottles, snacks, repair kits, sunscreen, and first aid supplies. Bring along extra layers of clothing for changing weather conditions, as well as any necessary bike tools for minor repairs. Encourage everyone to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the journey, and remind younger cyclists about bike safety rules and etiquette. With careful preparation and consideration for everyone's needs, a family cycling holiday can be a memorable and enjoyable adventure for all.

 Best of luck for your next bicycle adventure and #happycycling !