Why the unexpected is part of the game
Over several days, a bike trip becomes a small living ecosystem: changing weather, sometimes closed roads, bodies that react differently from one day to the next. Wanting to lock everything in ends up adding to the pressure. It's better to have a flexible framework, modular stages and a few safety nets: cancellable reservations, identified water points, transport options. With this margin, the hazard is no longer a wall: it's a possible fork in the road.
A little rule of thumb: on stages of 50 to 70 km, keep 20 % of hourly margin. This reserve absorbs a puncture, a downpour, a gravel detour, or the unexpected pancake break that feels so good. And if you're just starting out, here's a guide for a simple, progressive route: cycle itinerary for beginners.
Top unforeseen events when touring... and how to deal with them
1) The weather changes (rain, headwind, heat)
Signals: morale plummets, average plummets, cravings increase.
Reflex: split up. Ride 2 h, take shelter 30 min. If it's raining hard, it's better to wait under a porch rather than chill out. In hot weather, leave in the cool and aim for a long lunch break.
Tip: pack a light rainproof layer + a spare breathable top in an easily-accessible pannier. Textiles dry on the luggage rack during the restart.
2) Small mechanical breakdowns (punctures, loose lugs, loose adjustments)
Mini kit: multi-tools, 2 tire levers, 1 tube + patches, mini-pump, a few clamps.
Routine: at the start of each stage, 2 minutes to check pressure, tightenings and saddle height. This micro-ritual avoids 80% of silly glitches.
Bonus: a pair of thin "workshop" gloves to keep your hands clean in the ditch.
3) Flat battery on VAE
Even if you manage the assistance well, a hilly stage can empty faster than expected.
Solutions: identify in advance 2 plausible charging points (café, tourist office, campsite). Politeness + a compact charger = often a yes. Our guide brings together the right reflexes: recharging an electric bike while traveling.
4) Accommodation full or too far from the track
Plan: widen the radius to 5 km and accept an end-of-stop by local shuttle or regional train if available. Campsites often offer overnight accommodation for cyclists, without reservation. In high season, aim to call before 4 p.m. to avoid the 7 p.m. lottery.
5) Ravito not found at the wrong time
Golden rule: never leave a village without a small safety stock: 1 l water/person + 500-700 kcal easy (bananas, dried fruit, dry waffles). For smart, light meals, click here: food in bikepacking.
6) Pouches that leak
Even "water-repellent", some pouches end up damp in heavy storms.
Reflex: pack clothes and down in waterproof inner bags (or heavy-duty freezer bags). If you're renewing your equipment, have a look at this comparison: bike bags made in France.
7) Theft or parking stress
An unexpected visit, a trip to the market... and the question: "Where do we leave the equipment?"
Simple shield: U + wheel cable, always within reach. Choose visible locations, set yourself a timer of 15 min, and keep valuables with you. To find out more: security and anti-theft devices when bikepacking.
Plan B: improvise without putting yourself at risk
Shorten without feeling guilty
Shorten by 10-20 km a stage at the end of the day doesn't make the adventure any less enjoyable. You'll gain a hot shower, a relaxed dinner, and a wake-up call with real legs. Think of micro-liaisons: ferry, local bus, TER with bike racks (or folding racks if necessary). To widen the field on longer routes: night trains and couchettes.
Adjusting the itinerary without getting lost
Keep three hard points per day: water, ravito, accommodation (or authorized bivouac spot). Between them, leave room for variations: a dry farm track rather than a muddy single, a road section to bypass a mountain range if a storm threatens.
**### Listen to your body
**Sore muscles during the first 48 hours are normal. If pain sets in (knee, neck, wrists), adjust the saddle height, handlebar angle, stem length and, above all, the rhythm: a calm day makes up for more than a forced one.
Checklist for fast anti-galères
- Weather: check the evening before and in the morning, decide on the start according to the wind.
- Water: set off with 1.5-2 l (more if hot), locate refill points (cemeteries, town halls, campsites).
- Ravito: reserve a small kit calories that never leaves the pannier.
- Mechanics: mini-kit + 2-minute check at the start.
- VAE: two pick-up points per stage.
- Saddlebags: vital items in watertight inner pockets.
- Safety: U + cable, short timer, busy places.
- Plan B transport: stations/stops on the route noted in advance.
- Flexibility: agree to extend a break, shorten a stage, postpone a visit. The road will still be there tomorrow.
