Cycling Trip with Kids: What to Consider and How to Prepare?

Cycling is a wonderful way to spend time with family, explore nature, and create unforgettable memories. For children, it's an opportunity to learn new skills, build self-confidence, and enjoy outdoor activities. However, a cycling trip with children requires a bit more planning and preparation than riding alone.
At Intersport Bernik, we know that safety and fun come first when it comes to family adventures. That's why we've prepared a comprehensive guide to help you plan and prepare for a successful and fun cycling trip with your little ones. From choosing the right equipment to tips for motivation - here's everything you need to know!
1. Safety First: The Key to Carefree Cycling
Safety is an absolute priority, especially when cycling with children.
-
Bicycle helmets for everyone! This is undoubtedly the most important piece of equipment. Every family member, regardless of age, must wear a properly fitted and appropriate helmet. Make sure the helmet is the right size and properly fastened.
*When renting a bike from us, you get a helmet and child seat for free.
-
Visibility: Make sure you and your children are clearly visible. Use bright clothing, reflective elements, and of course, working bicycle lights, even during the day if visibility is poor.
-
Traffic rules and signaling: Before the trip, talk to your children about basic traffic rules and the importance of signaling. Practice stopping, starting, and turning.
-
Bicycle maintenance: Before each trip, check the condition of the bikes: brakes, tire pressure, chain, and gear operation.
Check out our bike and equipment rental offer
2. Choosing the Right Route: Adapt to the Children!
The success of a family cycling trip largely depends on choosing a suitable route.
-
Length and difficulty: Start with short and flat routes. Gradually increase the length and difficulty as children gain fitness and confidence.
-
Safe terrain: Choose routes that are separated from traffic, such as cycling paths, forest trails, or less busy roads. Avoid steep climbs and very uneven terrain until children are experienced enough.
-
Points of interest along the way: Choose routes that offer interesting points: playgrounds, lakes, rivers, animal farms, viewpoints, or picnic spots. This will motivate children and prevent boredom.
-
Kranjska Gora and surroundings: In Kranjska Gora and its surroundings, there are many family-friendly cycling routes, such as the well-maintained cycling path leading towards Mojstrana or Rateče. If you want to explore without worries, you can join a guided tour with an experienced cycling guide who knows the terrain, adjusts the pace to the group, and ensures a safe and interesting experience.
3. Equipment for Children: The Right Bike for the Right Cyclist
Proper equipment is crucial for children's comfort and safety.
-
Children's bicycle: The most important thing is that the bike is the right size for the child. The child must be able to reach the ground with their feet when sitting on the seat and comfortably reach the handlebars and brake levers. An oversized or undersized bike is dangerous and uncomfortable to ride. You can rent children's mountain bikes (up to 24") from us.
-
Bicycle trailer or seat: For the youngest who do not yet cycle independently, bicycle trailers or child seats are an excellent solution. At Intersport Bernik, you can rent child or dog bicycle trailers, and a child seat is free when renting a bike.
-
Clothing: Children should wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for the weather. For longer trips, cycling shorts with padding are also recommended for children. Always bring extra clothes in case of weather changes.
-
Gloves: Cycling gloves protect children's hands from blisters and abrasions in case of a fall.
4. Preparation and Motivation: The Key to a Fun Trip
Even the best equipment and route won't help if children aren't motivated.
-
Plan stops: Children need frequent stops for rest, snacks, drinks, and play. Don't try to cover too many kilometers at once.
-
Snacks and drinks: Always bring enough water and energy snacks (fruit, nuts, energy bars).
-
Games and fun: Include games during the ride and stops. Observe nature, count certain objects, sing songs.
-
Praise and encouragement: Praise children for every kilometer ridden and encourage them when they are struggling. Positive encouragement works wonders!
-
Be flexible: If the child is not in the mood or is tired, be prepared to shorten the trip or stop for a longer rest. The goal is fun, not a record distance.
-
Be prepared for anything: Bring a puncture repair kit, basic tools, first aid, and spare clothes.
Create Unforgettable Family Memories with Intersport Bernik!
Cycling trips with children are a valuable opportunity to connect with family and nature. With a little planning, the right equipment, and a lot of patience, you will create unforgettable memories that you will cherish for a long time.
At Intersport Bernik, we are here to help you with all preparations. We offer a wide selection of quality bikes for rent - from children's mountain bikes, trekking and mountain bikes, tandem and gravel bikes, to WOOM and HAIBIKE electric mountain bikes. Of course, you can also rent child and dog bicycle trailers. When renting a bike, a helmet and child seat are free!
Book your bike today and get ready for your next family cycling adventures!