It’s easy to rent a touring bike, and it’s an excellent alternative to a car on short trips. By bike, you can explore magnificent nature destinations at a relaxed pace in a way that respects nature. Bikepacking is suitable for gravel and other low-traffic roads.
There are bike routes for both short day trips and multi-day adventures. Pre-marked trails allow bikers to head out for a few hours or take an overnight trip. There are several national bike routes available for long trips that pass through nature reserves and even urban areas. This allows you to enjoy the diversity of Finnish nature and local attractions from the saddle of your bike.
Although Everyman’s Right also applies to biking, it may be restricted in nature reserves, if necessary. Biking in national parks is usually only permitted on bike routes and gravel roads.
Bikepacking gear starts with a basic bike and a helmet
A bikepacker needs a basic bike that is reliable and properly maintained. A bike helmet is recommended. The need for other gear depends on the length of the trip. On multi-day trips, consider using bike bags instead of a backpack, as they won’t put any strain on your upper body and midriff and they lower the bike's centre of gravity.
Take road conditions into account
On cycling trips, knowing and observing rules of the road (www.liikenneturva.fi) ensures bike safety. Bikers should exercise particular caution when biking in the dark and when temperatures fall below zero, in which case road surfaces may be icy.
Autumn and spring are the most challenging seasons for biking. The temperature fluctuates most widely above and below zero at these times of year. Studded tyres come in very handy in such conditions.