Now is the time of year that families enjoy getting back to nature. Do not forget the bikes when preparing for your next campout. Taking bicycles will bring your camping experience to the next level. Below are five reasons to take bicycles on a family camping trip.
1- Exploring Is More Fun On Wheels
Kids become bored when walking on trails for a long time. However, exploring on wheels is a lot more fun. Research the area surrounding your camp. Try to find hidden treasures, a lake, a meadow, or even a field of flowers that will be easy to get to on bikes. Kids will have more fun riding if they think they will get to see something special. You can even let the kids take the lead and ride at their own pace. They will enjoy the scenery if they do not feel they are always trying to catch up.
2- Eco-Friendly
Keeping the car in park is better for the environment. Sightseeing around the campground on bikes instead of driving will reduce your carbon footprint. You will preserve nature. The nature you enjoy today will continue to be around for someone else to enjoy. Instead of driving a car, you can use a bike for trips to the camp store or other campground activities.
3- Mental Health and Exercise
For most people, camping is a way of getting a reboot. Screens and work are left behind. Getting on a bike to watch the sunrise or sunset is good for our mental health.
Even on campouts, everyone needs to get up and get moving. Kids, especially, need to get exercise. Plan a fun scavenger hunt to get the kids excited about getting on their bikes. Set out on bikes with a list of fun things to find. Everyone is getting exercise and fresh air.
4- Outdoor Navigation And Independence
Allowing your kids to explore, within reason, can give them a sense of independence. Now would be a great time to introduce outdoor navigation skills. Give maps of the area to older kids so they can decide where to ride their bikes according to spots on the maps. For safety, everyone needs to know how to get to the campsite.
5- Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared for bike problems. Bike maintenance is a skill for everyone to learn, regardless of age. Young children will not be ready to change a tire tube, pop a chain back on a bike, or pump up tires. However, they will be eager to learn and help. Kids need to learn how to take care of their things. Learning how to keep their bikes in top condition will enable them to enjoy it even more and give them a sense of accomplishment. However, if the kids are not ready for pairs, consider giving them soap and water. They will enjoy washing all the bikes. Clean bikes are important, and it will be fun.
Bringing bikes on a family campout will create a family bonding experience. The children will make memories they will never forget. They will ask to take the bikes on all future campouts.