What Equipment Is Needed For My Biking Vacation In France

A biking vacation in France is an excellent way to enjoy all the beauty and culture this fine country has to offer. You will enjoy many historical sites ranging from caves with pre-historic cave drawings, to medieval castles to 12th century cathedrals to modern day sidewalk cafés. All you need is a fairly healthy bike, a passport and the open road and you are on your way to discovering the many hidden treasures France has to offer. A bike, a passport and the open road? Well, maybe you need a bit more than that (but not much!).
The first thing you will need is a good mountain bike. You can either bring your own, rent one from a bike shop or the biking tour company you are riding with. You will want a 21 to 27 speed bicycle that is lightweight and comfortable. It is important to get a bike that "fits" you so measure your inseam and talk with someone at your local bike shop or the rental place if you are renting one when you get there. A gel seat and padded handle bars will make the journey more comfortable and when you will be spending a minimum of four hours a day on your bike, comfort is definitely an issue!

You will need a basic bicycle repair kit with you. You should include a patch kit and a spare inner tube for possible tire repairs and a portable tire pump (at least one member of your tour group should have one). You should also have the basic tools to accomplish other small repairs. Since you don't want to be loaded down, choose one of the multi-tools they have available these days that have allen keys and spanners all in one. There are many portable kits available at your local bike shop. Many of the biking vacation tours in France include both the bike and the tool kit for an extra charge if needed.

You should also carry a small first aid kit for minor emergencies. Include several sizes of adhesive bandages, gauze bandages, medical tape, anti-biotic ointment, pain relievers and sinus tablets. You should also include a good broad-spectrum protection sunscreen. Remember that you can even get sunburn in winter and especially in the mountains. Don't forget a water bottle holder and a full water bottle, you will need to stay hydrated during your biking vacation in France.

A must for all cyclers is a good helmet. A head injury is very preventable and not worth risking for the sake of "looking good". The danger of not wearing a helmet has been so widely publicized for so long now that you actually look silly riding without one. A good pair of biking gloves will add comfort and prevent calluses on your hands. A nice pair of padded biking shorts will…well I guess you can figure out what those are good for! After all, you will be sitting for many hours a day. A good pair of sunglasses with a strap are also a good idea.

You will also want to bring a lightweight weatherproof jacket and a pair of waterproof shorts in case of rain. Other than that, you should wear lightweight, unrestrictive clothing and a good pair of biking shoes or hard soled athletic shoes. A sweatshirt might be good to bring in case the weather becomes chilly.

A little preparation goes a long way when preparing for your biking vacation to France. While many items you may need are available when you get there, you will feel more comfortable knowing that you are prepared. You should also have your own equipment and supplies in the event that you become separated from your group. Better safe than sorry. Bon voyage.