The motorhome and the bicycle make a perfect team. The camper van takes you to the area, and the bike lets you explore the hidden corners at a pace the car can't reach: greenways, villages, the coast, back roads. It's one of the best ways to experience a trip, and it's healthy and sustainable too. Here are the tips for combining them well.
How to carry the bikes
- Rear bike rack: the most common option; fitted to the back wall or the rear door. Check the maximum load it can carry (especially with e-bikes, which are heavy) and that it doesn't block the number plate or the lights (see bike racks).
- In the garage: if your camper van has one, the bikes are protected from the weather and theft; secure them well.
- Straps and a lock: well fastened so they don't move around, and with a good lock against theft.
The rise of e-bikes
Electric bikes have multiplied cycle touring: they let more people do long routes or ones with elevation gain without wearing themselves out. But they have a downside for a camper van: their batteries need charging, which adds to your power consumption. If you're carrying e-bikes, make sure your electrical system can charge them without always relying on a hook-up; a good lithium battery and solar setup make it possible (use the calculator).
Routes to discover by pedal
- Greenways: old railway lines converted into flat, safe routes, ideal for everyone.
- Coastal and cycle-lane routes in many destinations.
- Rural tracks to explore the area around where you're staying overnight.
- "Bike-friendly" countries like the Netherlands, to experience it to the full (see the Netherlands).
Practical tips
- Helmet, lights and a basic repair kit at all times.
- Check the bike rack's load and that everything is secure before setting off.
- Combine it with the family: it's an activity that hooks all ages.
In summary
The camper van and the bike multiply each other: one takes you there, the other reveals the hidden corners, in a healthy and sustainable way. The step you can take today: choose a good way to carry the bikes (a rack with enough capacity, or a garage), and if they're electric, make sure you can charge them with your system; then find greenways at your destination and enjoy. Combine it with bike racks.