What is Bikepacking?
Bikepacking is a combination of cycling and backpacking. This growing outdoor pursuit allows riders to explore vast landscapes sustainably, offering an engaging alternative to traditional car or plane travel. Similar to hiking but much faster, and in some ways just as demanding. Bikepacking lets adventurers cover impressive distances while immersing themselves in nature
A Brief History of Bikepacking
The term bikepacking entered public consciousness when a group of cyclists rode from Alaska to Argentina, an epic journey highlighted in National Geographic as “Bikepacking Across Canada and Argentina.” Though the name is contemporary, the activity itself has decades-old roots in long-distance touring and off-road exploration. Early bikepacking emerged from riders seeking to travel light while experiencing remote wilderness areas in new way
From Niche Pursuit to Mainstream Adventure
Once the domain of ultra-light, hardcore adventurers, bikepacking has expanded dramatically. Advances in gear, route planning, and especially e-bikes have opened the activity to a broader audience. E-bikes flatten hills, reduce physical strain, and make long-distance routes accessible to beginners and older riders alike. As the founder of VeloPlaner, a popular bike route planning service, shares, “E-bikes help people invite less fit friends on trips, and older riders can explore more confidently than ever before.”
However, infrastructure challenges remain. Finding reliable charging stations is a key concern for many. VeloPlaner helps meet this need by providing an integrated map layer of bike charging stations, aiding riders in route planning. Moreover, locating truly bike-friendly accommodations those offering secure bike storage and charging is still an obstacle for many travelers. “These developments will be critical to making bikepacking safer and more inclusive,” the founder adds.
Key Statistics Highlighting Bikepacking’s Growth
The global bikepacking market was valued at around $1.5 billion in 2025 and continues to grow at a rapid 12% annual rate.
Over 65% of Millennials and Gen Z travelers prefer eco-friendly adventures such as bikepacking, reflecting changing travel preferences.
In the U.S., millions participate in bikepacking annually, with increasing numbers each year.
European countries like Germany and the Netherlands see e-bike usage in cycling holidays reach 40–50%, further expanding accessibility
Essential Infrastructure for Urban and Remote Bikepackers
As bikepacking popularity grows, infrastructure needs evolve. Travelers especially benefit from:
Secure and Weatherproof Bike Parking: Lockable lockers and monitored garages protect valuable bikes and gear overnight.
Public Charging Stations: Easy access to fast chargers supports e-bike users and extends trip ranges.
Comprehensive Route Mapping: Apps and signage that highlight bike lanes, repair hubs, and amenities.
Repair Kiosks: Tools and pumps along popular routes enable quick fixes.
Multi-Modal Transport Access: Integration with buses and trains allows easy transition beyond city limits.
Weatherproof Rest Spots: Covered shelters with seating and hydration points enhance comfort.
Safety Features: Separated bike lanes and traffic-calmed areas reduce accidents and encourage ridership.
These improvements, paired with growing community knowledge and tech advances, make urban and remote bikepacking increasingly feasible and safe
The Bigger Picture: Sustainability and Inclusion
Bikepacking fits within a larger cultural shift toward flexible, low-impact travel that reconnects people with nature. It minimizes environmental footprints while opening access to outdoor exploration for diverse groups regardless of age or fitness. By blending adventure with sustainability, bikepacking offers a meaningful way to travel in today’s world.
Whether traveling alone or in a group, bikepacking combines eco-consciousness, exploration, and endurance. The cycling community is becoming more diverse and inclusive as infrastructure and technology advance, enabling everyone to enjoy this adventurous way of life.
To learn more about bikepacking routes, gear, and planning tools like VeloPlaner’s charging station layers, visit: https://veloplanner.com/