Something for Everyone

Here in the Tours Department, we get frequent questions about the different types of tours we offer. In order to clear things up, I'm going to offer some quick definitions for anyone still struggling with the whole self-contained vs. supported thing.


Self-contained - On a self-contained tour, you'll carry all your own gear, and do all your own cooking on a rotating basis. Your overnights will be at state parks, national forest campgrounds, private campgrounds, school fields, or city facilities, with some primitive camping on back country trips such as the Great Divide. Amenities range from RV parks boasting hot tubs to wilderness locations with no running water, depending on the nature and location of the trip. Indoor facilities such as hostels and churches are occasionally used. You will need a good freestanding tent with a ground cloth, a sleeping bag rated for below-freezing temperatures, and a sleeping pad. Self-contained tours range from week long trips, such as the Adirondack Loop, to several month long expeditions, such as the Northern Tier. The group sizes are limited to allow for the best possible experience.

Supported - A supported tour is fully catered, including snack stops. In keeping with Adventure Cycling's outdoor tradition, these tours are also camping tours, but hotel options are also available. A luggage truck carries each participants gear and tents from point to point, allowing for an unencumbered riding experience. Supported tours, such as Cycle Montana and Farm Fresh, can support more riders than self-contained rides, and also range in time from a few days to a few months.

Van-Supported - Recently, Adventure Cycling has begun offering a few van-supported tours--small groups who participate in shared cooking but are supported by a vehicle and therefore ride without any baggage. Van support allows riders to travel light and fast; perfect for heading across the country on the Transam or the Southern Tier.

Education - Adventure Cycling considers it part of our mission to educate members, and we make it a point to offer different classes all around the country. Check out our Intro to Road courses: where we teach beginners the basics of self-contained touring, or our Leadership Training Courses if you've ever been interested in leading bicycle tours.

photo by Wally Werner

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ON THE ROAD is posted each Tuesday by Sarah Raz, Adventure Cycling's Tours Specialist and Intrepid Traveler, and shines a spotlight on the daily delights that take place on Adventure Cycling Tours.