How to Prepare for Your Biking Trip

So, you’ve booked your biking adventure. Now what?&nbsp;&nbsp;The journey ahead promises rolling vineyards, winding coastal roads, and maybe a dramatic mountain pass or two. To make sure you arrive ready to soak it all in—without worrying about saddle soreness and wrist pain—we’ve pulled together a few tips on how best to prepare.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>How Should I Train?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The best way to get ready for time on two wheels? Spend time on two wheels. Here’s how to build your confidence and stamina before your departure, so whether you’re in Provence or Piemonte, you’re free to notice the lavender, the castles, and the company—rather than your quads.&nbsp;&nbsp;Get out and ride&nbsp;The amount of time you should spend on your bike in the weeks leading up to your departure, depends on the activity level of your trip. In general, you’ll want to commit to a few rides per week, gradually lengthening them until you’re comfortable riding for a few hours at a time.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Level 1 (Occasional) &amp; Level 2 (Recreational)&nbsp;4 weeks out: 1-2 rides / week, each at least 25 km (15 mi.) or around 2 hours&nbsp;2 weeks out: 2-3 rides / week, including one longer ride (40-55 km or 25-35 mi.) of around 3 hours&nbsp;1 week out: take a break and recover before your adventure!&nbsp;&nbsp;Level 3 (Enthusiast)&nbsp;4 weeks out: 1-2 rides / week, each at least 25 km (15 mi.) or around 2 hours&nbsp;2 weeks out: 2-3 rides / week, including one longer ride (50-75 km or 30-45 mi.) of around 4 hours&nbsp;1 week out: take a break and recover before your adventure!&nbsp;&nbsp;Level 4 (Avid)&nbsp;4 weeks out: 2-3 rides / week, each at least 40 km (25 mi.) or around 3 hours&nbsp;2 weeks out: 3-4 rides / week, including one longer ride (50-75 km or 30-45 mi.) of around 4 hours&nbsp;1 week out: take a break and recover before your adventure!&nbsp;&nbsp;Level 5 (Expert)&nbsp;4 weeks out: 2-3 rides / week, each at least 40 km (25 mi.) or around 3 hours&nbsp;2 weeks out: 2-3 rides / week, including one longer ride (75-100 km or 45-60 mi.) of around 5 hours&nbsp;1 week out: take a break and recover before your adventure!&nbsp;&nbsp;Take it outside&nbsp;A spin class can build fitness, but nothing compares to the feel of the road under your tires. Ride outside whenever you can, changing up surfaces (and the weather conditions) to mimic the terrain and conditions you’ll find on trip.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Practice climbs and descents&nbsp;Whether you’re rolling through the Tuscan hills, navigating the narrow lanes of the Cotswolds, or climbing steadily in Vietnam, training your climbs and descents will help prepare your legs—and your confidence.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mix it up with cross-training&nbsp;Add strength training, yoga, or Pilates to your routine. A stronger core and greater flexibility mean more comfort in the saddle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Try an e-bike (if you’ll use one on trip)&nbsp;Planning to ride with a little boost? Spend time on an e-bike at home before your departure. They handle slightly differently than a traditional bike, so getting in rides at home will help you feel more confident once you’re on trip, letting you focus less on fiddling with buttons and more on admiring the cypress-lined horizon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>What Should I Pack?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Packing for a biking trip with B&amp;R is a delicate art: it’s part practical, part personal style. You want to be ready for anything, without lugging around too much. Think function—with a touch of flair.&nbsp;&nbsp;Layers – Lightweight layers mean you’ll always be comfortable. Opt for synthetics over natural fibres—they breathe, dry quickly, and perform better, especially in warm or wet conditions.&nbsp;Rain jacket – Slim, waterproof, packable. Gore-Tex or equivalent material is strongly recommended. One of those things you might not need… until you really do!Sunglasses – A must have for UV protection and to shield your eyes from wind, bugs, and the occasional bit of road grit.&nbsp;&nbsp;Padded cycling shorts – Indispensable. They may not be glamorous, but your comfort (and your rear) will thank you by day two.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cycling gloves – While optional, they add grip, reduce vibration, and protect against blisters. Plus, they look decidedly pro.&nbsp;A good mindset – Perhaps the most important item of all. Pack curiosity, openness, and a willingness to let the journey unfold slowly.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the rest—snacks, maps, sunblock, spare parts—we’ve got you covered.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>More Questions?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Still have questions about your trip? Our Travel Advisors are always happy to help. <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/contact-us">Get in touch</a> with a member of our team and we’ll make sure you’re prepped and ready for your next adventure.&nbsp;

Learn how to prepare for a bike trip with expert training tips and packing advice. Build confidence, ride comfortably, and enjoy every mile of your journey.