What equipment do I need to sleep on a camping trip?
All you need to sleep in a tent!
In recent years, bicycle travel has become increasingly popular in France. La Flow Vélo, between Sarlat-la-Canéda and Île d'Aix, is seeing an increase in the number of cyclotourists year after year. When you're on a multi-day cycle tour, there are two options for accommodation: staying in hotels, B&Bs or gîtes, or camping. For the second option, organization and logistics are more demanding, but the freedom is total! You can spend nights under the stars in your tent. Every night outdoors brings you a little closer to nature. But the question is: what should you pack when you're camping?
#1 Bike panniers and trailer for a cycle trip
When you go on a bike trip, you need to make sure your bike is properly equipped to carry all the gear you'll be transporting. You have two options: use bike panniers or take a trailer. Some touring cyclists are fervent supporters of panniers, while others wouldn't change their trailer for the world. We leave it to you to make up your own mind.
When it comes to bicycle panniers, there are many options. You can hang your panniers wherever you like: back, front, on the handlebars, above the saddle... The most important thing is to balance your bike properly. Riding an unbalanced bike is tiring, uncomfortable and, above all, dangerous.
If you decide to buy a trailer, you'll be able to fit all your gear inside. Most trailers have a storage capacity of over 90 liters. More than enough for a few days' touring. For La Flow Vélo, you don't need a trailer with shock absorbers. A classic single-wheel model will do just fine.
#2 Equipment for a good night's sleep and recharging the batteries
One of the No. 1 rules of bicycle travel is not to be overloaded. That's why you need lightweight equipment that doesn't take up too much space. The tent, mattress and sleeping bag are certainly the three bulkiest items. So opt for ultra-light models. Some 2-seater tents, for example, weigh no more than 1.5 kg.
Don't forget to choose a sufficiently warm comforter. It's better to be too warm than too cold at night. As for the mattress, it must insulate you from the ground to avoid feeling the humidity. There are self-inflating mattresses for those who want to save energy when they arrive at camp.
Another important item: a headlamp. You'll need it when you wake up at night, but also if you encounter a technical problem at night. Inspecting your bike in the dark with a headlamp is much more practical than using your cell phone. Don't forget to buy a few spare AAA batteries (just in case).
#3 Cooking equipment
If you want to save a bit of money by cooking your own meals in the evening, a backpacker's kitchen is a must. Cutlery, plate, pots and pans. All in 1 is perfect for optimizing space. You'll also need a stove and a gas bottle. The rest is up to you: glass, mug, isothermal bottle... Each person does according to his or her needs. But once again, don't forget rule N°1 of the bicycle traveler: weight is the cyclist's enemy.
Once you're equipped, all you have to do is enjoy La Flow Vélo for a weekend or a week.
