From campsite to trail: Bringing your bike on RV trips

There is something special about hitting the open road in an RV. You’ve got the freedom to roam, and the comfort of staying as long as you like in the places you love. But there’s one addition that can take your RV vacation from great to unforgettable: your bike. 

Bringing your bike on your RV adventure is fun and it:

• offers convenience, 
• encourages an eco-friendlier travel style, 
• helps you adventure to places you may not have a chance to visit by car or on foot

In this post, you will discover why packing your bike can be a great addition to your RV trip. Plus, we’ll provide tips for choosing the right bike for you and storing it safely.

The perks of packing a bike

Considering bringing your bike along on your next RV trip? Whether you are a seasoned RVer or planning one of your first adventures, there are benefits to making room for your bike.

A fun way to explore

Once your RV is parked, getting around on two wheels is a fun and easy way to explore. Campgrounds and parks usually have bike paths that let you explore your surroundings at your own pace. 

Whether you’re riding quiet campground roads or nearby trails, bikes offer the flexibility to go places your RV can’t.

A greener way to travel

Bringing your bike on your RV trip is an easy way to reduce vehicle use while still getting around. 

Whether you are running a quick errand or taking in the scenery on a leisurely ride, biking lets you use less fuel without giving up convenience. It’s a simple choice that helps make your travel a little greener and lets you spend more time outdoors.

Built-in exercise

One of the best parts of RV travel is staying active while enjoying the outdoors. 

Biking gives you a low-impact workout that keeps your body moving, whether it’s a leisurely pedal around camp or a heart-pumping climb up a mountain trail. It’s also a great way to keep kids moving and help them burn off energy before bedtime!

Convenient campground transportation

Need to grab firewood from the campground store or visit a nearby lake? 

A bike gets you there quickly—no need to unhook a tow vehicle or pack up camp. It’s faster than walking, quieter than driving, and keeps you connected to nature.

Choosing the right bike for your trip

Not sure what type of bike to bring on your trip? Here’s a quick guide:

• Mountain bikes are best suited for off-road trails and rugged park terrain.
• Hybrid or street bikes are great for paved roads and casual riding near town.
• Beach cruisers are ideal for seaside campsites and sandy paths.

Smart storage: Bike racks for your RV

Ready to bring your bike along on your next RV trip? There are a wide variety of bike racks designed specifically for RV travel. 

The best choice for you depends on:

• your rig, 
• storage space, 
• how often you plan to ride,

Consider your needs and set-up when choosing a bike rack for your RV. 

Choose RV-approved racks

Not all bike racks are built for the unique demands of RV or trailer use. Always check that your rack is rated for RV travel.

Know the weight limits:

Every bike rack has a maximum weight limit; do not exceed it. No one wants to see a rack full of bikes come loose on the highway.

Consider your RV setup:

• Hitch or bumper-mounted racks: One of the most common styles, these racks attach to your trailer hitch or bumper and typically hold two to three bikes securely.
• Ladder-mounted racks: If your RV has a rear ladder, these racks hook onto it to store bikes above ground level. This keeps your hitch free for towing or other gear.
• Truck bed racks: Instead of tossing bikes loosely into your truck bed, these racks keep them upright and secure, while leaving a good amount of space for other cargo. They are easy to install and ideal for towable trailer setups with pickup trucks.
• Around-the-spare racks: If your RV has a rear-mounted spare tire, this rack design extends out from the bumper, providing enough clearance to carry bikes without interference.

Whatever bike rack you choose, secure your bikes properly and check the rack regularly for stability during travel. 

With the right setup, you will have peace of mind and easy access to your bikes wherever the road takes you.

Ride into adventure 

Bringing your bike on your RV trip adds a new level of adventure, freedom, and sustainability. From hidden trails to hassle-free errands, the benefits go far beyond the ride itself.

Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a cross-country journey, don’t forget to pack your bike. You’ll be glad you did.

Ready to hit the road?

Make sure your RV is protected before your next adventure. At Orbit, we can help you find the right insurance coverage no matter where you go.

Contact an Orbit RV insurance expert today for a free, personalized quote. We’ll help you find the best coverage for your RV, lifestyle, and budget.

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