Bikepacking vs. Bike Touring

If you love riding your bike and want to go on a big adventure, you might enjoy bikepacking or bike touring. Both allow you to explore new places on two wheels, but they are a bit different. Let’s examine what makes each option special, so you can choose what’s right for you.

• Bikepacking vs. Bike Touring: Key Differences
• Gear & Bike Setup Comparison
• Routes & Terrain for Each Style
• FAQs

Bikepacking vs. Bike Touring: Key Differences

Bikepacking and cycle touring both mean travel by bike, but they are not the same. The necessary gear, road and riding style can be very different. Some riders prefer smooth roads and friendly towns, while others want dirt trails and adventurous camping experiences.

Let’s evaluate each option in-depth.

Bike Touring: Long-Distance Road Cycling

Bike touring is all about cycling on paved roads. There are usually highways or bike paths to follow through cities and small towns.

You would carry gear in large bags, known as panniers. In between towns, you could stay at a hotel or camp in a park.

The touring bike is made for comfort across many miles and is built to be strong. These bikes help you cover long distances and see new places.

Bikepacking: Off-Road Trail Exploration

Bikepacking takes you off the road and onto dirt trails. You ride through forests, mountains, beaches or deserts, depending on the region.

Your gear gets packed in small bags on the bike, helping you keep the weight distributed so you can cycle fast on rough terrain. Bikepacking is the optimal choice for adventure lovers. It’s all about embracing the journey more than racking up miles.

Gear & Bike Setup Comparison

The gear needed for bike touring and bikepacking is also different and primarily depend on the situation you plan to ride in. Let’s examine how each works.

Bike Touring Gear: High-Capacity Panniers

Whether you are using a traditional bike or are touring on an electric bike, you’ll want to use panniers. These large bags hang on racks to carry your gear. You can pack clothing, tools, a tent and food for the journey. 

The touring setup is heavier than bikepacking, but more stuff can be stored. If you plan for a long trip, you will need the extra gear.

Bikepacking Gear: Lightweight Frame Bags

Bikepacking requires smaller bags, fitting inside the bike frame or attached to the handlebars. Because these are lighter, you can move faster and keep the bike better balanced.

The lightweight gear is also helpful when bikepacking with Ebikes. With less weight, it’s easier to extend the range of the bike.

Routes & Terrain for Each Style

Where you choose to ride makes a big difference, especially when discussing bike touring versus bikepacking. Each style occurs on a different type of path. 

Best Bike Touring Routes

Cycle touring is meant for smooth, long-distance rides. These routes are well-marked and simple to follow. Consider planning a bike touring adventure through one of these paved paths and scenic roads.

• Pacific Coast Route (California to Washington)
• Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)
• Great Allegheny Passage (Pennsylvania to Maryland)
• Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)
• Katy Trail State Park (Missouri)

Best Bikepacking Routes

Bikepacking is designed with the rough country in mind. These routes are tricky but offer more wilderness adventure. Here are a few trips you may consider.

• Colorado Trail (Denver to Durango, CO)
• Arizona Trail (Mexico to Utah border)
• Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (Canada to Mexico)
• White Rim Trail (Canyonlands, UT)
• Oregon Timber Trail (Oregon)

FAQs

Are Ebikes good for bikepacking?

Yes, electric bikes are great for bikepacking, especially if they offer a good range. The Ebike offers assistance, making those hills much easier to get up. You can cycle further without getting as tired.

However, Ebikes are typically heavier than traditional bikes and will need to be charged.

That’s why the electric bike is a great option for shorter trips or well-traveled trails with charging options nearby. 

FURTHER READING: How to Charge Ebike Battery Without a Charger

How many miles a day bikepacking or bike touring?

The number of miles per day depends on your experience and the terrain. On average, bike touring usually covers 50 to 80 miles per day, especially if the roads are paved. For bikepacking, you could plan on 30 to 50 miles per day, but rough terrains may require slower travel.

What to pack for bike touring?

Before heading out on a new journey, you should pack some essentials for safety and comfort.

• Clothing: Wear weather-appropriate clothing. Don’t forget the cycling shoes and rain gear.
• Camping equipment: Take your sleeping bag, tent and a sleeping pad for your overnight stays. If you plan to stay in hotels, you won’t need this equipment.
• Food/water: Carry enough food for the trip or plan to restock along the way. Remember your water bottles and a filtration system to keep the water clean.
• Tools: Carry some basic tools to handle emergencies. You can also pack some lightweight spare parts.
• Navigation: Take a paper map as a backup to your GPS device.
• Personal items: You will need your phone, a first aid kit, sunscreen and basic toiletries.
• Wallet: It’s important to have some cash, your credit card and identification on you at all times.

Conclusion

Choosing between bike touring and bikepacking depends on the adventure you crave. Bike touring is ideal for longer rides on smooth terrain, while bikepacking lets you get off-road.

Both offer a unique experience and fun challenges, so maybe you try both. Either way, make sure you are prepared and safe.