Cycling Holiday Safety for Adults

Cycling holidays are popular choices for active adults, but can bring with them the opportunity for accidents or injuries. While there is no way to absolutely protect against unexpected accidents or incidents while on cycling holidays there are things you can do to minimise the impact and be prepared should something happen:

Pack the Right Cycling Clothing

Cycling holidays usually require you to be on your bicycle for many hours at a time. Don't risk aches, pains or chaffing because you haven't invested in the correct clothing. If possible, take two pairs of padded shorts (often made of spandex or another flexible material) and tops. Some cycling clothing is now made from sweat-wicking or breathable fabrics to help keep you drier as you cycle, meaning less chance of rashes or fungal infections. Some also boast reflective strips or embellishments so that you can feel more confident that you will be seen by vehicles in darker weather or at night. Also pack several pairs of cotton socks, a light rain jacket and either comfortable trainers with good grip or bike shoes.

Use Cycling Safety Equipment

In addition to proper cycling clothes you should also invest in, and use, proper safety equipment each time you go out on a bicycle:

• Cycling gloves will help protect your hands from friction, chaffing and blisters as well as the elements
• Sunglasses will not only protect your eyes from the sun's rays but from anything (gravel, pebbles, woodchips, etc) which could be flipped into your eyes by your bike tyres or sprayed into your face from cyclists around you
• Most importantly, a bike helmet will keep you safe should you come off your bicycle as well as protect against items (again, gravel, pebbles, woodchips). If your cycling holiday is taking place in another country, purchase your bike helmet at home so that you can access expert fitting help choose a model meets British and/or European Union safety standards
• Bicycle lights - these are essential, not only if you know you'll be travelling in the evening or by night, but also if you are delayed and end up cycling in the dusk unintentionally. They can also be useful for poor weather conditions such as misty rain or fog

Other Cycling Safety and Security Equipment to take

If you are cycling as part of a tour your tour guide or travel representatives may take care of carrying spare cycle parts for you, but regardless of that you'll need to take the following (and know how to use them):

• A bike lock
• A bike pump, patches and/or spare inner tube for tyre punctures
• Oil or bike lube for the bicycle chain and a bike multi-tool for miscellaneous repairs
• A mobile phone or Internet device so that you can get in touch with others
• A map of your route and surrounding areas with you in case you get separated from a group
• Sunscreen, insect repellant, a first aid kit, water and a few snacks
• If you don't speak the local language, a phrase book and the written contact information of your accommodation, tour group and closest embassy or consulate could come in handy in the event of an emergency too

So now you're prepared and packed - go and have some cycling fun!