Share

Should I Bring a Bike Along While Camping?

Tips and Tricks

Learning to ride a bike as a kid is a momentous occasion. If you’re lucky, you still have some pictures or video of it around, but otherwise, there’s an indelible image in your brain.

Riding bikes is fun for everyone, and it’s a great way to explore the outdoors. RVers of all ages can pick up cycling as a fun hobby and take it with them wherever they travel.

If you’re questioning whether or not you should bring a bike along while camping, the answer is yes. Here’s a few reasons why, and how to attach your bike to your RV.

IT’S GREAT EXERCISE

It’s no secret: using your bike to get around is great for your physical and mental well-being, and that doesn’t stop when you’re in an RV.

  • 30-60 minutes of daily physical activity such as biking to work is associated with low blood pressure and low hypertension.

  • Bicycle riding burns an average of 540 calories per hour.

  • Active commuting that incorporates cycling and walking is associated with an overall 11% reduction in cardiovascular risk.

Bringing a bike along while you and your family camp gives you a great, physical activity to share. Many RV parks feature miles of on- and off-road trails to check out, too.

GETTING AROUND

One huge benefit of bringing a bike along to RV campgrounds is the ability to get around the park without using an extra vehicle or walking a long distance.

We’ve all been there: we run out of ice, matches or some other item, and we have to get to the general store at the front of the park to pick it up. It’s way easier to grab a bike and pedal over there than walk or deal with the stress of moving your truck or motorhome. It’s not worth it.

HOW TO PICK A RACK

When it comes time to affix your bike to your RV, you have a host of options, depending on the style of RV you have.

  • A hitch-mount rack is a popular choice, and many of these racks are easily found at bicycle shops for a relatively low cost.

  • An over-the-ladder rack is another option. These racks hang over the ladder of your motorhome or fifth wheel, and suspend your bikes well above the ground.

  • An around-the-spare bike rack holds your bikes securely to the spare tire on the rear of your motorhome, fifth wheel or trailer.

  • When all else fails, store them inside.

Photo courtesy vastateparksstaff