Checklist for a bike trip with the family - have you thought of everything?

It doesn't always have to be a car - you can plan great trips to nearby and more distant regions by bike. If the whole family is travelling, comprehensive planning is an important task: Are all the bikes in good condition? Do you have enough provisions for the journey and are all family members familiar with the most important traffic rules?

We'll give you the ultimate checklist to make your family trip an experience. That way you won't forget anything and there won't be any unpleasant surprises!

Optimization before the start: getting your bikes in shape

If you are travelling with your own bikes, it is essential to carry out a thorough check before setting off. It is important to distinguish between conventional bikes and e-bikes. In order to save costs and resources, it is also advisable to opt for a used, refurbished e-bike . This way, more and more families can have access to motorised bikes.

This is particularly useful for long trips where the destination is further away, but requires more measures. Ensures that the batteries are fully charged and that there is an opportunity to recharge along the way. If you are on the road for a longer period of time, a spare battery in your luggage (per bike) can be an important addition.

Regardless of the type of bike, pay attention to the following points:

• Check tires for defects before driving and re-inflate
• Check all lights on the bike and replace if necessary
• Check the height settings for all family members, the saddles should be comfortable and intact
• Testing of protective devices for children (e.g. trailers or support wheels on children's bicycles)
• General check for roadworthiness or possible defects

Tip : If the bikes have not been used for a long time, it may be a good idea to take them to a workshop. They will carry out an all-round check so that you can ride safely on the road.

Route planning before the tour - use map and app together

You can use apps like Komoot to plan your cycling tours in advance. Choose routes that suit your needs and find out what obstacles you might encounter along the way. Don't forget to take a manual map with you in case your internet connection breaks down or your phone battery suddenly runs out.

If you are cycling for the first time, you should not plan very long routes. Otherwise, children in particular could quickly be overwhelmed. When planning a route, always base your decision on the abilities of the weakest rider. You will only reach your destination reliably if the route is manageable for the least experienced person.

Also check to see if there are places to stop for a bite to eat along the way. Although you will pack enough provisions, sometimes a trip to a restaurant is a welcome change on the tour.

Pack your backpack for your bike tour - what you should pack

What you should pack in your backpack depends on the type of trip you are taking. For example, if you are cycling to one of Germany's many zoos, remember to bring snacks to feed the animals (e.g. carrots for the petting zoo) and find out about opening times beforehand. Also remember to take enough drinks and snacks for you as a cyclist.

If you are on the road for a whole day, here is an example snack and drink list that is sufficient to feed one person:

• Drinks : Two liters of water per person are important. If it's very hot, pack more. Find out whether there are sources of water along the way or whether you can buy more. Then you don't need to pack so many bottles in your backpack and you'll still be well supplied. Tip: A hydration bladder reduces weight, avoid glass bottles!
• Cereal bars : Energy or cereal bars provide quick energy and take up little space. Plan two to three bars per person.
• Nuts : You should pack around 200 grams of nuts per person in your backpack, as they provide quick carbohydrates and keep you fit . Trail mix is ​​a delicious mixture that is also very popular with children.
• Fruit and vegetables : A can of various fruit and vegetable sticks is perfect for snacking on the go. Avoid bananas or other fruits that become mushy when stored for a long time. Don't cut apples; wash them and pack them whole.
• Sandwiches : Open sandwiches are a popular snack when you're on the go, but they should be eaten quickly. If it's warm outside, cheese, sausage and other toppings don't last as long. Jam or peanut butter are good options. They last longer and provide an extra energy boost.

Safety on your bike tour - this is how it is guaranteed!

In Germany, there is no helmet requirement for bicycles , but for safety reasons every family member should wear one. Check beforehand whether the helmets still fit properly or whether there are any defects. Depending on the type of trip you are taking and the route you are taking, a few additional safety items should be included in your luggage:

• Bicycle locks to take breaks and have a rest along the way.
• First aid kit with tick tweezers, plasters and disinfectants.
• Rain jackets and weatherproof clothing in case you get caught in the rain.
• Personal medication if any of you need it.
• In spring, summer and autumn, sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Possibly a power bank in case your phone battery runs out while you're on the go.

Check the weather forecast beforehand to see what the forecast says will be for your tour day. However, you can never rely on it 100%; changes in the weather are possible. Rain jackets are a practical help if it suddenly gets wet. Buy foldable models, as they don't take up much space in your backpack and are easy to throw on.

Important : If you are out and about in the woods, find out about shelters in your area. If a storm occurs, you can find shelter here and keep yourself safe.

More tips for the family bike tour

Discuss the rules that apply to your tour as a family beforehand. If the kids are riding their own bikes, they must remain within sight. If there are two adults, it makes sense to put the children in the middle. This way you can ensure that the little ones can keep up the pace and no child suddenly gets left behind.

Talk in advance about traffic rules and what is important to you as a family. For longer trips, it may be a good idea not to let the kids ride their own bikes. If you ride with a trailer, the children can rest during the ride.

However, plan regular breaks, as the little ones need to stretch their legs. Use Komoot or other route planners to find playgrounds along the way. The kids can let off steam there and then carry on with the tour.

If you are not sure whether your kids really want to ride their bikes the whole time, it might make more sense to travel by car , where the bikes can still be taken along thanks to the luggage rack.

Conclusion: Planning makes family bike trips easier!

If well planned, a bike trip with the family will be a long-lasting and enjoyable experience. It's up to you whether the journey is the destination or whether you just use the bikes to get there so that you can still get around once you get there . If you're well prepared, nothing stands in the way of a fun family adventure.