Die deutsche Version findet ihr auf Pedelecs & E-Bikes
Lockdowns are loosened and its time to start planning your next trip! I spoke with Protectonaut about what special things to keep in mind when preparing for an e-bike trip these days. We put together 7 useful tips – the same ones that are my guideline too while preparing for my solo tour from Spain to Germany.
Tip 1: Make plans but stay flexible
The sooner you start planning, the sooner you will be ready to go. But plan flexibly: consider several countries as your destination and prepare for different scenarios. If one destination turns out to be difficult, go for a different one.
Tip 2: Keep an eye on infections and regulations
Once the destination and alternatives are found, check out how high infections are in those countries / areas at present, if they tend to go up or down, what pandemic regulations are in place and if you can rely on medical care if needed. It is helpful to keep track of the countries and the measures until you start your journey. The Covid-19 Response Tracker and Re-open EU websites also help determine the final destination.
Tip 3: Consider entry and exit modalities
Before heading out, find out what the conditions are to enter a country. It's also a good idea to be prepared for leaving the country if conditions turn bad. How will I get home if there is another lockdown or in case I catch Corona? What are the transport options for my e-bike?
Tip 4: Take spare battery and power bank
Even on short trips, take a spare battery along especially if there is a risk, that charging locations such as restaurants, cafés or campsites might still be closed. If you use your smartphone for navigation, take a power bank as well! For longer trips, a solar panel may be a good idea.
Tip 5: Take spare parts and tools
A patch kit or spare tube and a multitool don't weigh much and can be of big help. Just take them along! Some problems can also be fixed temporarily with a cable tie and duck tape – very useful! For longer tours, make sure you have a good supply of spare parts and tools.
Tip 6: Go for flexible cancellation conditions
If you are traveling without a camper or tent, book accommodation with flexible cancellation conditions. If you are traveling with a van or motorhome, find out whether campsites are open and whether - or under what conditions - wild camping is permitted.
Tip 7: Prepare for a different vacation experience
Be prepared that your travel experience might be different from what we have known so far. Depending on where you go, you may find emptiness and only very few people at touristic sites. Or you may find full accommodations along busy bike paths. Nothing is for sure in these times, but one thing is certain: Some rules such as keeping distance and wearing masks will still be present in many places - and this alone changes our travel experience.
Enjoy your trip!
This is most important!
We'll be happy to learn about your experiences.
This is me in Chiclana de la Frontera in southern Spain preparing my new pedelec for some 3,000 kilometers solo. Europe is opening and travel logistics such as accommodation and charging batteries and will probably be easier than I expected a few weeks ago.