Nearly all of my bikepacking has been solo and I'd like to add another point to the list of benefits. When you are alone you are much more approachable. People are drawn to travellers and rolling into town on a loaded bike labels you very obviously as such. You will usually get someone coming to say hi, to ask where you have been and where you are heading but in my experience these encounters are more common and often deeper when I'm alone. People seem more likely to say hi to a solo rider, more likely to offer assistance and hospitality. I've been treated to meals, offered places to camp or a bed for the night and regaled with the collected stories of countless other cyclists. I also find - as something of an introvert - that it is easier to engage with strangers when I'm alone and while a massive draw of bikepacking for me is the solitude I find myself remembering the unexpected kindness of strangers with incredible fondness.
@@omare_biketonature Wow, thank you! I couldn't ask for better feedback than that on the videos. Really glad you enjoy them and even more glad that you are getting out and enjoying the ride yourself. It's a better world where everyone pedals further 😉
Agreed! People seem to be very friendly and chatty when you're travelling like this by yourself. Especially bumping into other solo bikepackers. There's always a feeling of comradery along the way
My first bikepacking experience was on my own...I'm hooked! If I don't go alone it wouldn't happened. The sense of accomplishment and freedom is exhilarating and rewarding. The vulnerability connects me to present moment. A woman bikepacking alone seems to attract more attention in a good way in my case anyway. Getting ready for my second solo adventure...
As a man, it has been relatively easy for me to find outdoor buddies since my young age. Unfortunately I cannot say the same thing for the vast majority of my female friends who both struggle to find companions and enjoy less carefree travelling alone than the majority of men. Generally speaking, I'd love to see more women approaching the outdoors in their own terms and build a better world by cycling, hiking and climbing it. Keep up the good work! ^l^
I agree I often ride with a friend of mine at her pace because it's a scary world. She loves the trails and mtb but the fear of being by herself is to much kinda sucks
All fine arguments for going solo. When I first heard of this thing called "bikepacking" way back in 2014---I was 60 years old then---I was quite intrigued. I had already spent fourteen years solo backpacking the jungles and mountains of Central and South America and was used to being alone while out in the wilds. I did a fair amount of research, and then bought a Surly Ogre. It was outfitted with racks and paniers, and loaded with much of the gear I had used while backpacking. I had no Smartphone---oh how I despise those things!---and relied upon paper maps. I headed out from Oklahoma City with no real idea of where I was going. I made it to the Panhandle then crossed into New Mexico, Colorado, back to New Mexico, then into Texas and back to Oklahoma---1600 miles all told. I had camped out most of the way. I averaged 40 miles per day at 7 miles per hour. I slept where I wanted, ate what I wanted, rested when I wanted, drank whiskey when I wanted and biked where I wanted. Yeah boy that was a fun trip! (I lost 25 pounds as well.) Since then I have not solo bikepacked, alas, but have bikepacked with my girlfriend to Arkansas and Mississippi. And I leave in a few weeks for another solo bikepacking trip to Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Missouri. Yes, and I'm taking a Smartphone. And paper maps.
Having done 99% of my bikepacking trips alone because I never found anyone to join me, I definitely agree with all you said. I do not think I am that weird now... Thanks!
I find bike packing like trekking has it's many practitioners, - the race fanatic who wants to beat all records - "bye man, take it easy out there". The brand man - "I'll be fine after all I got the best money can buy". - me: "Yeah later man - be safe". My pace is slow and I'm there to see stuff and enjoy the camp and the journey there. I'm not going to rush or set myself time regimes. I just have a basic idea and work from there. Why alone? To be honest - I prefer my own company. I may travel with a buddy of mine or two. more than four is too many for me. I may practice erecting and taking down my tent or cover a few times before the trip, just for sake of getting things organised for my needs, that's about it. A good small tool set and spare tubes - zip ties and tape. Take water enough for your needs until you find more water, I live in the UK - water is never far away, much of it from the heavens. Peg out a sheet or bag of plastic and cut a corner to drain through into a water container, filter as required. After filtering, boil. Cover your head and exposed skin in sun, keep dry clothes ready in wet weather. Never exhaust yourself beyond what you can endure. It is after all, supposed to be fun and for enjoyment.
The idea of doing it with other people has actually never really entered my mind! I've toured across Europe and the Middle East by myself so my capabilities are not in doubt...
My favourite form of riding is going alone. Packed bike or not. Just so much time to think about stuff and switch off. With others has its place, but not always necessary.
I think not going alone is helpful in remote or dangerous areas and riding with others can be fun. But when it comes to cycling with luggage, going alone has the advantage that it's your decision alone how fast you go, when to stop, where to go to eat something etc.
Mostly solo myself…I guess I like my own company and the opportunity for introspection when spinning by myself, at my own daily pace, and the sense of self sufficiency. I do enjoy the folks I meet along the way, the “magic” that seems to come to the solo traveler, and the occasional company of others I meet along the way.
Did all of my hiking/biking tours solo. It certainly changed my view of this world in many ways. I now ride with my son, so that one day he can start his solo adventures.
I've done a load of solo bikepacking but never realised how much fun it would be to play air guitar with my inflateable mattress. Those winter evenings will never drag again.
Started a route intending to go solo, met some people at the start doing the same loop so we rode together for a while but eventually split up. Riding alone is quite satisfying.
I’ve only been bikepacking for 2 years and I’ve done a majority of my trips alone. I couldn’t agree more with Neil’s perspective, and I definitely feel like it’s a therapeutic meditation for me. I highly encourage others to venture into the unknown and try it out but make sure you are prepared for things to go wrong, because they have. I’m always grateful every trip I do alone that goes smooth because I know it’s not always the case
The idea of not having to compromise what you want to do for a companion’s wants and needs. Places to stop, eat, sleep are all your own choices. I like that. I’m going on my trip, not somebody else’s. I’ve seen bike trips ruin friendships, and I don’t have many friends left. Don’t want to risk it.
Best thing is clearing your head! Makes you appreciate the small things more when you get back. I film my adventures to share it with my family when I’m back so everyone’s a winner! 😂
I bikepack, hike and tour solo. I carry an Inreach mini, going solo let's me problem solve anything that comes up and I find myself not pushing the envelope by doing anything crazy. My creative side becomes more awake and the peace and quiet is why I go solo, enough noise and drama in my regular life.
My first ever trip was a solo overnighter. It was incredible and taught me a lot about what is absolutely necessary to bring when your carrying everything yourself. I plan to continue to do both solo trips with friends because sometimes its to difficult to match peoples schedules. Cheers!
Love camping by myself but wish I had friends or a spouse that would camp. Their idea of a holiday is taking a cruise ship. Sometimes it would be nice to someone share the load.
It would be cool for those of us late to the game if we could order the previous copies of the journal. It might be a great way to boost subscriptions if you can offer limited time reprints (prepaid of course) of the previous issues. I'd be interested.
Agree with you and others here. Riding solo presents its own set of challenges and I also find it harder to get myself out there, but always find it more rewarding in the end. The senses are more heightened and the experience richer.
I'm doing my first bikepacking trip this spring/summer which will double as a promo tour for my new album!! All across Canada! I'm so scared but also stoked!
+1 to riding ones own pace ... if you are the person in the rear you wear yourself out not wanting to hold others up which makes the experience much harder for you -- though I will say when it comes to a bivy at night in the black its a mental boost to know there is someone else nearby ... i going out alone in a few months for an event ... i'll see other competitors along the way but it'll be a good mental to know that there are going to be others coming along the route in front of me or behind me
Although I, too love to do things with friends, I also love bikepacking by myself for all the reasons you mention. You can go as fast or slow as you want, stop or eat when you want, go as far as you want and it's good to spend time alone outdoors letting your mind wander and empty out.
Great vid, so true! The wandering random thoughts and singing to myself as I roll along are definitely common occurrence. Then laughing to myself when I realise how ridiculous I must sound 😂
Great video. I like to ride alone in the back country. Even bringing one person into the mix can screw up your plans and take away your freedom. This makes you realize there are so many variations of mountain biking and it's hard to find a match
Where to begin... I think the solo cranium time is the biggest benefit for me. While I enjoy a couple of shorter solo rides each week with a couple of group rides as well, those long, solo multi-days are like painting on a wider, large format canvas. Problems get solved, ideas get born, sorted and (hopefully) recorded. It's like my brain has room to stretch. But the isolation also makes the eventual (re)companionship all the sweeter for me. Add to that everything you listed such as schedule independence, sense of accomplishment, and the like. Highly recommend, even if your family doesn't 100% "get it."
I bikepack alone at times cause it is not everywhere you want to go it is possible to get company for; like longer trips in foreign countries. So the choice is to either do it by myself, or perhaps never, easy.
I did a three weeker last summer and it definitely helps being alone sometimes. I met up with some friends along the way so I didn't have to talk to trees the whole way.
I always travel solo, mindful of the potential downside. I have used a PLB for years but now I have a Spot X and just renew it every year. It's worthwhile just for messaging put of cell phone range. I live on Vancouver Island and it is easy to get out of cell range.
Solo most of time! Very fulfilling & I go when I wish to go or do what I want when I want! I do like other folx it just seems to work out solo biking work for me!
An important subject indeed. And if I may add to the discussion what I consider one of the most important benefits of these trips: solitude in the outdoors builds your character. On very few other occasions during your entire life you will feel the vulnerability, meaninglessness and self-reliance of your existence than when you go solo in the great outdoors. Well, maybe also when you are going through your first divorce. But these trips are specially important in this day and age where we have become completely spoiled to climate control environments, food delivery and instant gratification. Few things are more powerful than the knowledge that you are completely alone and the only one you can rely on is yourself. And if once in a while you get lost, even better. As there are only too many ways in this life you can find who you really are as when you get lost in the wilderness. In these occasions, I try to keep in front of my mind the words of English mountaineer Edward Whimper: "Climb if you will, but remember that courage and strength are nought without prudence, and that a momentary negligence may destroy the happiness of a lifetime. Do nothing in haste; look well to each step; and from the beginning think what may be the end."
Your words ring true. I wish every young man would take them into his heart. I learned them while spending 14 years solo backpacking in Central and South America. I have been shipwrecked, kidnapped, accosted by native tribes through jungles, shot at, chased by foreign militaries, attacked by animals, fallen into quicksand and became very sick indeed with an entire host of diseases. None of these were planned. And yet I still live.
@@mikeaustin3485 Not only are you alive, but with the acquired knowledge and experience of surviving all those Moments of Truth. That's how I like to call them. 14 years? Sounds like a long walkabout you took...
@@The_One-Eyed_Undertaker I had the good fortune to teach for 12 years while in Latin America. Every year I had three months free. During those three months I would solo backpack, eventually exploring from Guatemala to Tierra del Fuego. Two years I abandoned the thought of work and income, and simply lived in a hammock or tent walking alone through jungle and Andes. Now at almost 68 years of age and retired, I can do what I want. What I want is to load up my Surly Pugsley and head out into the wilds of North America. Soon and very soon...
I went on a 5 year 70k mile solo tour. People would ask... why are you doing this alone? "Do you wanna sell all your stuff, quit your job, sleep in a one man tent, and ride your bike all day everyday?" No. "Neither did any of my friends, so here I am."
Canoeing , Backpacking or Bikepacking alone are all the same. Only difference is the mode of travel. The results are the same , quiet , do what you want , go where you want , start and stop when you want. Best of all , you don't have to worry about anyone else and their likes or dislikes. The purest form of freedom , solitude and reflection time a person can achieve today. Don't get me wrong , I also like going with friends in those activities which is a lot of fun.
I am leaving for a solo cyclo-touring (Blasphemy!! Racks and Panniers! Yuck!) trip next week. It’s been a while since I have on my bike for a multi-day trip, and it has been 20-ish years since my last solo multi day journey.... I am kind of nervous. I never had such good gear...yet the limiting factor is my ageing vessel called my body, and thus am curious what I will find on my way. I am cycling 1200km over the French Alps…Can I do it??? Sure… just don’t blow yourself up in the first 3 days.
Like most people here, I do most of these things alone. The big reason is I'm always available when I have free time. If you find yourself with a 2 day window suddenly, it's hard to find friends to make plans with on short notice. One side question Neil. It's summer, do you wear flannel year round or is this, how do I say... your work clothes?
Well as I am only 18 not yet and I am also on a Student exchange where the rules do not allow traveling on your own without supervision also not in the near future. Well and when I am back in Germany I really want to see my friends again so I'm gonna do a bikepacking trip with one of them (about 720km across Germany) just because I couldn't just say well I am back after a year not seeing you and now I will leave for approximately 8 days and not taje you on that trip with me but maybe in fall I might go to eastern Germany cuz they have some really nice lakes and its about 400km to get there so that might be a good route to do. PS good Video thanks for the tips and tricks not only in that Video but also all the others and keep up the great work. Greetings Patrick
Bike packing solo is a lot of fun but can be pretty scary if you're not totally sure what you're doing or if you don't have a solid plan. (I found that out the hard way). Also, ALWAYS tell your friends or family where you're going. That would be my number 1 advice for anyone considering doing it. It's not worth it to take the risk in not doing that.
Looking forward to riding "solo" again on OTT, but this time along with the grand depart. I figure we'll phase into some loose groups naturally, which should help with morale.
Being alone is almost a meditation practice. One is focused inward not distracted. It is easier alone to meet People who may invite to pitch the tent in their backyard.
Seems like going alone is the easier thing to do. I have yet to do a group trip and these days my bp is more by the hour than the day but I like that because I can have an adventure while never straying far from home.
I went with my brother a few times. Mostly alone though. But those insane thundering howls right behind my camp scared me big-time on my last outing. I know those Cypress woods supposed inhabitants don't make any noises like that. I can't wait to go back on my ebike when the weather cools. Some company would be nice at that spot though 😬😲. More on heaven and earth than we know
Live for solitude! - better to get to know one's self - get to know and experience the landscape, environment, and the critters living in it. Been going solo my whole life, more so in my later years. This kind of experience can only be gained alone. Those who haven't experienced this, or don't understand it, aren't the kind I would travel with.
What's holding me back is just one thing... police or something like that waking me up on my camp and pass me a fine and saying that I can't stay there. I really want to try bikepacking, but the fact that in Switzerland, in Kanton Zürich, is forbidden to wild camp, I don't know how to do it, or where, and it holds me back 😅🤦♂️
What's holding me back is the angst of trying to find a good camping spot. Even if I go out in the rural areas I'm most likely on private land or amongst tons of other people.
Amen. Covid forced me to ride solo and further afield. It has been every bit as you say -- more adventurous, more rewarding, more therapeutic. But, I'm finding myself bumping up against more wild animals than I expected. Yesterday was my first face to face with a mountain lion. Over the last two weeks, it's been bears. I assumed this would happen at some point, but having had it happen seems to have tilted the "adventure" into more "risk". Any wisdom on mountain lions? I am anticipating, I'll just take a day off and assume it'll be another 20 years before I see another. I'm sure he's seen me before and let me be, but now I've made eye contact with one yesterday, your video made me want to ask. Different question: I love the channel and subscribed and joined the backpacking collective. But, I haven't received the journal. When did the last one roll out? Again thanks for your videos and enthusiasm.
I have never been bikepacking and I do not want my first time to be alone. I have gear but no one to go with. I think for my first time it would be more risky alone.
All my bikepacking I do is alone.... haven't been able to get my friends warm to go with me.... finaly my best friend wanna join me for a week in the scotland highlands .... then covid runes it :( but I dont mind going alone, I like to do my own thing on my own pace, I must say its also a sufferfest what I do because I like it.
Since bikepacking by definition involves an element of mountain biking, it's kinda dangerous you know. I wouldn't like to crash on a trail, broke a bone alone and wait God knows how long until someone finds me. What if I lose consciousness? Another thing is that it's cool to have someone guard our bikes while I'm shopping when bikepacking alone you need to carry all the gear you need alone. While with friend(s) someone else can carry a stove or a shelter for example
My thoughts exactly ! If i waited for a friend to go ride , I would never go even on weekly rides . Hard to get people to commit sometimes, you just got to go when you can
What’s the 1 best all around piece of bikepacking gear to get is it a bikepacking tent so it’s small & compact is it a water filter so you don’t need to pack so much water or is it a jet boil for food?
Honest truth? Never been bike packing. I see all the comments that it seems solo is the way to go. That being said, for a newbie not sure this is good advice. Particularly if your camping skills are limited. Thoughts?
Start close to home. Try an OAB up to a ridge that's too far for a day ride, or that you'd just like to wake up on. Pack light and ride home in the morning. Keep a flat kit handy, you can roll down with many other mechanical issues.
Just came back from a two day bikepacking and it got pretty extreme deep into the forest of Honduras and at some point my only concern was: what if something happens to me here? Super remote, many river crossing, completely alone and no phone signal! There are venomous snakes here, what if I got bitten? But essentially I have two problems, I’m not a social person and love being alone and haven’t found anyone who shares the same passion for bikepacking.
Honduras? I know that country very well. I have solo backpacked all over it, especially around Moskitia and south of it. I would much enjoy reading about your experience there on a bike.
@@mikeaustin3485 La Mosquitia! You have been to the most beautiful and remote areas of Honduras! And it’s interesting that you mentioned La Mosquitia because I’m planning a bike tour to La Mosquitia, I’m going to ride all the way to Colon into Gracias a Dios and then I might take a boat, not sure yet. I’ve been living abroad and It’s the only area of Honduras I have never been and going there on a bike it’s going to be pretty wild and extreme. I recently started to document my tours and posting it here on RUclips, so if you’re interested then go to my channel. I just started so lower your expectations on the videos, I’m just a guy cycling around with a GoPro 😅 but it’s going to be fun and I’m blogging in (my bad) English too, cheers!
@@omare_biketonature I will indeed keep up with your RUclips channel. Honduras has so very many back roads that lead almost anywhere. Once could spend months just exploring!
Nearly all of my bikepacking has been solo and I'd like to add another point to the list of benefits.
When you are alone you are much more approachable.
People are drawn to travellers and rolling into town on a loaded bike labels you very obviously as such. You will usually get someone coming to say hi, to ask where you have been and where you are heading but in my experience these encounters are more common and often deeper when I'm alone. People seem more likely to say hi to a solo rider, more likely to offer assistance and hospitality. I've been treated to meals, offered places to camp or a bed for the night and regaled with the collected stories of countless other cyclists.
I also find - as something of an introvert - that it is easier to engage with strangers when I'm alone and while a massive draw of bikepacking for me is the solitude I find myself remembering the unexpected kindness of strangers with incredible fondness.
I enjoy your adventures in your channel! You are one of many who inspired me to go out and cycle more!
@@omare_biketonature Wow, thank you!
I couldn't ask for better feedback than that on the videos. Really glad you enjoy them and even more glad that you are getting out and enjoying the ride yourself.
It's a better world where everyone pedals further 😉
I couldn’t agree more, more people approach me when I’m alone than with friends, and the interactions have been more memorable with strangers
Agreed. I have received generous trail magic from complete strangers while riding solo.
Agreed! People seem to be very friendly and chatty when you're travelling like this by yourself. Especially bumping into other solo bikepackers. There's always a feeling of comradery along the way
Why I bikepack alone: no one else I know likes to bike 😭
Same here.
My first bikepacking experience was on my own...I'm hooked! If I don't go alone it wouldn't happened. The sense of accomplishment and freedom is exhilarating and rewarding. The vulnerability connects me to present moment. A woman bikepacking alone seems to attract more attention in a good way in my case anyway. Getting ready for my second solo adventure...
As a man, it has been relatively easy for me to find outdoor buddies since my young age. Unfortunately I cannot say the same thing for the vast majority of my female friends who both struggle to find companions and enjoy less carefree travelling alone than the majority of men. Generally speaking, I'd love to see more women approaching the outdoors in their own terms and build a better world by cycling, hiking and climbing it. Keep up the good work! ^l^
I agree I often ride with a friend of mine at her pace because it's a scary world. She loves the trails and mtb but the fear of being by herself is to much kinda sucks
All fine arguments for going solo. When I first heard of this thing called "bikepacking" way back in 2014---I was 60 years old then---I was quite intrigued. I had already spent fourteen years solo backpacking the jungles and mountains of Central and South America and was used to being alone while out in the wilds. I did a fair amount of research, and then bought a Surly Ogre. It was outfitted with racks and paniers, and loaded with much of the gear I had used while backpacking. I had no Smartphone---oh how I despise those things!---and relied upon paper maps.
I headed out from Oklahoma City with no real idea of where I was going. I made it to the Panhandle then crossed into New Mexico, Colorado, back to New Mexico, then into Texas and back to Oklahoma---1600 miles all told. I had camped out most of the way. I averaged 40 miles per day at 7 miles per hour. I slept where I wanted, ate what I wanted, rested when I wanted, drank whiskey when I wanted and biked where I wanted. Yeah boy that was a fun trip! (I lost 25 pounds as well.)
Since then I have not solo bikepacked, alas, but have bikepacked with my girlfriend to Arkansas and Mississippi. And I leave in a few weeks for another solo bikepacking trip to Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Missouri. Yes, and I'm taking a Smartphone. And paper maps.
just came home from my first bikepacking trip. it was a 7 day solo trip and it was awesome xD
I find it's getting out the front door that takes the most when I go bikepacking alone once out on the road/trail it gets easier
Me too, getting out and deciding where to go takes the most. I have to keep a picture in my mind of being at the camp site while I'm packing up.
Having done 99% of my bikepacking trips alone because I never found anyone to join me, I definitely agree with all you said. I do not think I am that weird now... Thanks!
I find bike packing like trekking has it's many practitioners, - the race fanatic who wants to beat all records - "bye man, take it easy out there". The brand man - "I'll be fine after all I got the best money can buy". - me: "Yeah later man - be safe". My pace is slow and I'm there to see stuff and enjoy the camp and the journey there. I'm not going to rush or set myself time regimes. I just have a basic idea and work from there. Why alone? To be honest - I prefer my own company. I may travel with a buddy of mine or two. more than four is too many for me.
I may practice erecting and taking down my tent or cover a few times before the trip, just for sake of getting things organised for my needs, that's about it. A good small tool set and spare tubes - zip ties and tape. Take water enough for your needs until you find more water, I live in the UK - water is never far away, much of it from the heavens. Peg out a sheet or bag of plastic and cut a corner to drain through into a water container, filter as required. After filtering, boil. Cover your head and exposed skin in sun, keep dry clothes ready in wet weather. Never exhaust yourself beyond what you can endure. It is after all, supposed to be fun and for enjoyment.
The idea of doing it with other people has actually never really entered my mind! I've toured across Europe and the Middle East by myself so my capabilities are not in doubt...
My favourite form of riding is going alone. Packed bike or not. Just so much time to think about stuff and switch off.
With others has its place, but not always necessary.
I think not going alone is helpful in remote or dangerous areas and riding with others can be fun.
But when it comes to cycling with luggage, going alone has the advantage that it's your decision alone how fast you go, when to stop, where to go to eat something etc.
Mostly solo myself…I guess I like my own company and the opportunity for introspection when spinning by myself, at my own daily pace, and the sense of self sufficiency. I do enjoy the folks I meet along the way, the “magic” that seems to come to the solo traveler, and the occasional company of others I meet along the way.
Did all of my hiking/biking tours solo. It certainly changed my view of this world in many ways.
I now ride with my son, so that one day he can start his solo adventures.
I've done a load of solo bikepacking but never realised how much fun it would be to play air guitar with my inflateable mattress. Those winter evenings will never drag again.
I'm always doing it on my own. Enjoying this way the most.
Leaving Wednesday for a solo 2-week tour of the BT700. Planning on 2 weeks for low stress on KMs.
"Take the morning slow". Hell I take everything slow! Great video, thx!
Started a route intending to go solo, met some people at the start doing the same loop so we rode together for a while but eventually split up. Riding alone is quite satisfying.
I’ve only been bikepacking for 2 years and I’ve done a majority of my trips alone. I couldn’t agree more with Neil’s perspective, and I definitely feel like it’s a therapeutic meditation for me. I highly encourage others to venture into the unknown and try it out but make sure you are prepared for things to go wrong, because they have. I’m always grateful every trip I do alone that goes smooth because I know it’s not always the case
Just finished getting some bags and gear. Planning a short solo night this week just to get everything dialed in.
The idea of not having to compromise what you want to do for a companion’s wants and needs. Places to stop, eat, sleep are all your own choices. I like that. I’m going on my trip, not somebody else’s. I’ve seen bike trips ruin friendships, and I don’t have many friends left. Don’t want to risk it.
New subscriber from Chicago. I’m a gravel cyclist and I love your videos. Awesome contents, man! Keep it up 👍
Rock on, thanks Hubert!
Best thing is clearing your head! Makes you appreciate the small things more when you get back. I film my adventures to share it with my family when I’m back so everyone’s a winner! 😂
I bikepack, hike and tour solo. I carry an Inreach mini, going solo let's me problem solve anything that comes up and I find myself not pushing the envelope by doing anything crazy. My creative side becomes more awake and the peace and quiet is why I go solo, enough noise and drama in my regular life.
My first ever trip was a solo overnighter. It was incredible and taught me a lot about what is absolutely necessary to bring when your carrying everything yourself. I plan to continue to do both solo trips with friends because sometimes its to difficult to match peoples schedules. Cheers!
Love camping by myself but wish I had friends or a spouse that would camp. Their idea of a holiday is taking a cruise ship. Sometimes it would be nice to someone share the load.
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It would be cool for those of us late to the game if we could order the previous copies of the journal. It might be a great way to boost subscriptions if you can offer limited time reprints (prepaid of course) of the previous issues. I'd be interested.
As great as camping out with mates can be, I love to be out, under tarp, solo in the woods. I can just stop and hear and feel nature.
Agree with you and others here. Riding solo presents its own set of challenges and I also find it harder to get myself out there, but always find it more rewarding in the end. The senses are more heightened and the experience richer.
Who would have ever thought of being alone during an adventure, this is truly a new human experience.
"Why You Should Try Bikepacking with someone" should be the video for me 😅
I'm doing my first bikepacking trip this spring/summer which will double as a promo tour for my new album!! All across Canada! I'm so scared but also stoked!
Rock on, that's great! Whats your website?
+1 to riding ones own pace ... if you are the person in the rear you wear yourself out not wanting to hold others up which makes the experience much harder for you -- though I will say when it comes to a bivy at night in the black its a mental boost to know there is someone else nearby ... i going out alone in a few months for an event ... i'll see other competitors along the way but it'll be a good mental to know that there are going to be others coming along the route in front of me or behind me
Although I, too love to do things with friends, I also love bikepacking by myself for all the reasons you mention. You can go as fast or slow as you want, stop or eat when you want, go as far as you want and it's good to spend time alone outdoors letting your mind wander and empty out.
I wish I had friends to bikepack with. But going it alone really does let you get to know yourself better.
I love bikepacking, It's very spiritual.
Great vid, so true! The wandering random thoughts and singing to myself as I roll along are definitely common occurrence. Then laughing to myself when I realise how ridiculous I must sound 😂
Great video. I like to ride alone in the back country. Even bringing one person into the mix can screw up your plans and take away your freedom. This makes you realize there are so many variations of mountain biking and it's hard to find a match
Where to begin... I think the solo cranium time is the biggest benefit for me. While I enjoy a couple of shorter solo rides each week with a couple of group rides as well, those long, solo multi-days are like painting on a wider, large format canvas. Problems get solved, ideas get born, sorted and (hopefully) recorded. It's like my brain has room to stretch. But the isolation also makes the eventual (re)companionship all the sweeter for me. Add to that everything you listed such as schedule independence, sense of accomplishment, and the like. Highly recommend, even if your family doesn't 100% "get it."
Going on my first ever bikepacking trip and I happen to also be going alone :)
Thinking about it , hard . Thanks
I bikepack alone at times cause it is not everywhere you want to go it is possible to get company for; like longer trips in foreign countries. So the choice is to either do it by myself, or perhaps never, easy.
LOL the closed captions at 3:43!
waaa I wanna read that book! Super agree with the fulfillment!
I did a three weeker last summer and it definitely helps being alone sometimes. I met up with some friends along the way so I didn't have to talk to trees the whole way.
I always travel solo, mindful of the potential downside. I have used a PLB for years but now I have a Spot X and just renew it every year. It's worthwhile just for messaging put of cell phone range. I live on Vancouver Island and it is easy to get out of cell range.
Absolutely I all notations!
Solo most of time! Very fulfilling & I go when I wish to go or do what I want when I want! I do like other folx it just seems to work out solo biking work for me!
An important subject indeed. And if I may add to the discussion what I consider one of the most important benefits of these trips: solitude in the outdoors builds your character.
On very few other occasions during your entire life you will feel the vulnerability, meaninglessness and self-reliance of your existence than when you go solo in the great outdoors. Well, maybe also when you are going through your first divorce. But these trips are specially important in this day and age where we have become completely spoiled to climate control environments, food delivery and instant gratification.
Few things are more powerful than the knowledge that you are completely alone and the only one you can rely on is yourself. And if once in a while you get lost, even better. As there are only too many ways in this life you can find who you really are as when you get lost in the wilderness. In these occasions, I try to keep in front of my mind the words of English mountaineer Edward Whimper:
"Climb if you will, but remember that courage and strength are nought without prudence, and that a momentary negligence may destroy the happiness of a lifetime. Do nothing in haste; look well to each step; and from the beginning think what may be the end."
Your words ring true. I wish every young man would take them into his heart. I learned them while spending 14 years solo backpacking in Central and South America. I have been shipwrecked, kidnapped, accosted by native tribes through jungles, shot at, chased by foreign militaries, attacked by animals, fallen into quicksand and became very sick indeed with an entire host of diseases. None of these were planned. And yet I still live.
@@mikeaustin3485 Not only are you alive, but with the acquired knowledge and experience of surviving all those Moments of Truth. That's how I like to call them. 14 years? Sounds like a long walkabout you took...
@@The_One-Eyed_Undertaker I had the good fortune to teach for 12 years while in Latin America. Every year I had three months free. During those three months I would solo backpack, eventually exploring from Guatemala to Tierra del Fuego. Two years I abandoned the thought of work and income, and simply lived in a hammock or tent walking alone through jungle and Andes. Now at almost 68 years of age and retired, I can do what I want. What I want is to load up my Surly Pugsley and head out into the wilds of North America. Soon and very soon...
I went on a 5 year 70k mile solo tour. People would ask... why are you doing this alone? "Do you wanna sell all your stuff, quit your job, sleep in a one man tent, and ride your bike all day everyday?" No. "Neither did any of my friends, so here I am."
Спасибо за ролик и за советы 👍
Love my solo trips. Friends are great if you are with compatible riders. But I always meet people on my own.
Canoeing , Backpacking or Bikepacking alone are all the same. Only difference is the mode of travel. The results are the same , quiet , do what you want , go where you want , start and stop when you want. Best of all , you don't have to worry about anyone else and their likes or dislikes. The purest form of freedom , solitude and reflection time a person can achieve today.
Don't get me wrong , I also like going with friends in those activities which is a lot of fun.
Thank you - this was a good one !
Grizzly bears - I like to have a companion so we are making noise. Anywhere else, solo is great!
I am leaving for a solo cyclo-touring (Blasphemy!! Racks and Panniers! Yuck!) trip next week. It’s been a while since I have on my bike for a multi-day trip, and it has been 20-ish years since my last solo multi day journey.... I am kind of nervous. I never had such good gear...yet the limiting factor is my ageing vessel called my body, and thus am curious what I will find on my way.
I am cycling 1200km over the French Alps…Can I do it??? Sure… just don’t blow yourself up in the first 3 days.
Have a blast!!!
Like most people here, I do most of these things alone. The big reason is I'm always available when I have free time. If you find yourself with a 2 day window suddenly, it's hard to find friends to make plans with on short notice. One side question Neil. It's summer, do you wear flannel year round or is this, how do I say... your work clothes?
One solo trip-it was great.
Well as I am only 18 not yet and I am also on a Student exchange where the rules do not allow traveling on your own without supervision also not in the near future. Well and when I am back in Germany I really want to see my friends again so I'm gonna do a bikepacking trip with one of them (about 720km across Germany) just because I couldn't just say well I am back after a year not seeing you and now I will leave for approximately 8 days and not taje you on that trip with me but maybe in fall I might go to eastern Germany cuz they have some really nice lakes and its about 400km to get there so that might be a good route to do.
PS good Video thanks for the tips and tricks not only in that Video but also all the others and keep up the great work.
Greetings
Patrick
Bike packing solo is a lot of fun but can be pretty scary if you're not totally sure what you're doing or if you don't have a solid plan. (I found that out the hard way). Also, ALWAYS tell your friends or family where you're going. That would be my number 1 advice for anyone considering doing it. It's not worth it to take the risk in not doing that.
Word!!! 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Looking forward to riding "solo" again on OTT, but this time along with the grand depart. I figure we'll phase into some loose groups naturally, which should help with morale.
Read comments hoping to see a reason for the 1 dislike. No explanation. Guess there's always one. Thanks for all the awesome content bikepacking.com
Thank you!
Solo trips are the best. I see more wild life. forage for berries , plants 🤙
I'm a lone wolf on wheelz... Always
✌️💜😎
Being alone is almost a meditation practice. One is focused inward not distracted. It is easier alone to meet People who may invite to pitch the tent in their backyard.
I've ONLY gone solo, the wife isn't so into bikes, or camping, I did get her to play D&D once, so I guess she's a keeper
Rolling solo is my preferred way to go.
Completely off topic - what brand of shirt is that? I really like it.
Seems like going alone is the easier thing to do. I have yet to do a group trip and these days my bp is more by the hour than the day but I like that because I can have an adventure while never straying far from home.
I went with my brother a few times. Mostly alone though. But those insane thundering howls right behind my camp scared me big-time on my last outing. I know those Cypress woods supposed inhabitants don't make any noises like that. I can't wait to go back on my ebike when the weather cools. Some company would be nice at that spot though 😬😲. More on heaven and earth than we know
Live for solitude!
- better to get to know one's self
- get to know and experience the landscape, environment, and the critters living in it.
Been going solo my whole life, more so in my later years. This kind of experience can only be gained alone. Those who haven't experienced this, or don't understand it, aren't the kind I would travel with.
iv never biked backed alone due to safety, guess i should give it a try some day
What's holding me back is just one thing... police or something like that waking me up on my camp and pass me a fine and saying that I can't stay there. I really want to try bikepacking, but the fact that in Switzerland, in Kanton Zürich, is forbidden to wild camp, I don't know how to do it, or where, and it holds me back 😅🤦♂️
What's holding me back is the angst of trying to find a good camping spot. Even if I go out in the rural areas I'm most likely on private land or amongst tons of other people.
Amen. Covid forced me to ride solo and further afield. It has been every bit as you say -- more adventurous, more rewarding, more therapeutic. But, I'm finding myself bumping up against more wild animals than I expected. Yesterday was my first face to face with a mountain lion. Over the last two weeks, it's been bears. I assumed this would happen at some point, but having had it happen seems to have tilted the "adventure" into more "risk". Any wisdom on mountain lions? I am anticipating, I'll just take a day off and assume it'll be another 20 years before I see another. I'm sure he's seen me before and let me be, but now I've made eye contact with one yesterday, your video made me want to ask. Different question: I love the channel and subscribed and joined the backpacking collective. But, I haven't received the journal. When did the last one roll out? Again thanks for your videos and enthusiasm.
White sox WILL win the title this year! 😀😀
🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I never had anyone come with me on a bikepacking trip. I just get my bike and go.
Im too anxious to do this. Bein alone with thoughts is depressing.
I don't think I've ever done a tour not solo. It's already enough hassle trying to plan everything without trying to co-ordinate with other people.
I have never been bikepacking and I do not want my first time to be alone. I have gear but no one to go with. I think for my first time it would be more risky alone.
I've spent enough time alone. I'm ready to share experiences with a companion
Try a hike in the mountains alone first. Camp overnight and return. If you like it go for it.
All my bikepacking I do is alone.... haven't been able to get my friends warm to go with me.... finaly my best friend wanna join me for a week in the scotland highlands .... then covid runes it :(
but I dont mind going alone, I like to do my own thing on my own pace, I must say its also a sufferfest what I do because I like it.
Since bikepacking by definition involves an element of mountain biking, it's kinda dangerous you know. I wouldn't like to crash on a trail, broke a bone alone and wait God knows how long until someone finds me. What if I lose consciousness?
Another thing is that it's cool to have someone guard our bikes while I'm shopping
when bikepacking alone you need to carry all the gear you need alone. While with friend(s) someone else can carry a stove or a shelter for example
Agreeeeeee!!!!! Go alone!!!
If I don't go solo, it's not going to happen.
My thoughts exactly ! If i waited for a friend to go ride , I would never go even on weekly rides . Hard to get people to commit sometimes, you just got to go when you can
Me too. Hubby has a CPAP, most of my friends couldn't imagine pooping in the woods.
Doing a trip soon in full on bear country. I'm bringing friends.
When I bikepack in bear country, I always bring my friends Smith & Wesson.
@@mikeaustin3485 hmmm, I'm not friends with those dudes. The best I can do is Mace Windy.
👍
What’s the 1 best all around piece of bikepacking gear to get is it a bikepacking tent so it’s small & compact is it a water filter so you don’t need to pack so much water or is it a jet boil for food?
I always bikepack alone.
Im 20 and im a bit afraid of someone hurting or robbing me out there. What should i do
Honest truth? Never been bike packing. I see all the comments that it seems solo is the way to go. That being said, for a newbie not sure this is good advice. Particularly if your camping skills are limited. Thoughts?
Start close to home. Try an OAB up to a ridge that's too far for a day ride, or that you'd just like to wake up on. Pack light and ride home in the morning. Keep a flat kit handy, you can roll down with many other mechanical issues.
Don’t know where to put this but biannual means every two years. Semiannual means twice a year
You had me second guessing myself so I did a quick google search and it means twice a year. 😅
Just came back from a two day bikepacking and it got pretty extreme deep into the forest of Honduras and at some point my only concern was: what if something happens to me here? Super remote, many river crossing, completely alone and no phone signal! There are venomous snakes here, what if I got bitten? But essentially I have two problems, I’m not a social person and love being alone and haven’t found anyone who shares the same passion for bikepacking.
Honduras? I know that country very well. I have solo backpacked all over it, especially around Moskitia and south of it. I would much enjoy reading about your experience there on a bike.
@@mikeaustin3485 La Mosquitia! You have been to the most beautiful and remote areas of Honduras! And it’s interesting that you mentioned La Mosquitia because I’m planning a bike tour to La Mosquitia, I’m going to ride all the way to Colon into Gracias a Dios and then I might take a boat, not sure yet. I’ve been living abroad and It’s the only area of Honduras I have never been and going there on a bike it’s going to be pretty wild and extreme. I recently started to document my tours and posting it here on RUclips, so if you’re interested then go to my channel. I just started so lower your expectations on the videos, I’m just a guy cycling around with a GoPro 😅 but it’s going to be fun and I’m blogging in (my bad) English too, cheers!
@@omare_biketonature I will indeed keep up with your RUclips channel. Honduras has so very many back roads that lead almost anywhere. Once could spend months just exploring!
I don't know how to plan routes. It's not as simple as finding a dirt road. Where do you park? How far can you ride in a day solo?
great points, keep an eye out for a video coming soon.
How can I get a Pedal Further hat?
No one in their right mind will follow me. So yea Solo. Makes for great RUclips videos I think.
I ride alone all the time, mostly because I don’t have any friends.
Good but watch out for them there Sasquatch.
how do you guys get out of civilization? it's all cities around me for like 200km, do you have someone drive you to the edge ?