Solo Bikepacking - 7 things I've learned in 1,5 years

Рет қаралды 70,997

Күн бұрын

I am Giant Cheerio, a bicycle traveler, exploring the world by bike since 2021.
I wanted to go on a bikepacking trip for 4 weeks & these 4 weeks turned into 1,5 years.
When I started my journey, I was totally unaware of what was ahead of me.
I am talking about self-empowerment, fears I had ( and still have) while traveling solo, meeting strangers & general things I got used to while being on the road.
If you have any further questions, let me know in the comments and hopefully I’ll be able to answer them in an upcoming video.
And if you’re thinking of going on a journey by yourself, but fears are holding you back, then THIS is your kick in the a** to take a step out of your comfort zone.
Lean back & enjoy watching!
Cheerio, Goodbye, Salut & Adios!
🙌 Do you want to support my journey?
🏕 Kofi: ko-fi.com/giant_cheerio
🏕 Patreon: / giant_cheerio
0:00 Intro
00:19 You are not alone
01:02 You can do it by yourself
02:12 Go with the flow
02:50 People are willing to help
03:44 Say ‘’YES’’
04:47 Fear often only exists in your head
06:44 You are stronger than you think you are
07:49 Outro

Пікірлер: 157

@sabineor Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this video! That's what I needed now. I will start my first solo-trip as a woman in less than two weeks heading to Spain and Portugal for 2,5 months and the closer the day comes, where I panned to start the bigger my anxiety gets. You actually named all my fears that came to my mind in the last days and weeks and gave me a bit more self-confidence that I am able to do this and whenever I will get stuck I will remind myself of your words. Thanks for being an inspiration! :)

@edgardoruiz6621 Жыл бұрын

Good luck on your journey! 🍀

@meesrobert Жыл бұрын

So cool, this woman also motivates me so much! I just started planning my first trip too, from Amsterdam to Portugal (2000km more or less). I actually just stumbled upon this channel 2 hours ago and have been watching several videos. So nice to see someone do it exactly the way I plan on doing it with wild camping every night. It makes me feel much more confident I can do this too! Still feeling pretty anxious at the same time haha

@jakoo4089 Жыл бұрын

Hey :) see you on the road then, I’m starting in the beginning of may in direction France, Spain, Portugal and I really like Cheerios content and the positivity she’s spreading :)

@pedallinraw Жыл бұрын

🙂👊🏻

@meesrobert Жыл бұрын

@25BiNE04 how is your trip going? 😃 I just started few days ago and about to head into France today 😊

@benazeddine5255 Жыл бұрын

Thx Giant-Cheerio for those wonderful-positive words and experience sharing with people, who might hesitate to go out there and discover the world and their own potential. My own experience, from solo sailing my 48" sailboat on the high seas during 12 & 1/2 years to starting biking, to avoid spinal cord surgery by strengthening my lower back muscles to now, 5-6 months a year long distance biking/triking, tells me that it can be done and the rewards are many. All it takes is having confidence in ones self and learning the skills one lacks on the go, while travelling.... and travelling is living-learning more about our planet and the people inhabiting it,...🙏

@TheTrakker Жыл бұрын

You are so right! We all have it in us. We just have to be willing to open the cage and set ourselves free. I know so many people who kept themselves locked up in a cage built of fear. A cage of their own making. And I have been blessed to witness the liberation of a few people who opened the door and stepped into the unknown. It's like watching an eagle take off and soar completely out of sight. It's incredible! Thanks for sharing this. It reminded me of the eagles in my own life.

@Greg_Jones Жыл бұрын

I travel between mountain bike trails in my minivan. There's lots of folks starting out camping out of their vehicles worried about security in the woods. I just tell them the only time I worry is when I'm in Metro areas. The bad guys ARE there. It's too much trouble for someone so lazy they steal for a living to come find someone randomly set up in the middle of nowhere.

@waleedonbike Жыл бұрын

As a solo bike traveler, i really absorb these positive words. Worrying about the next day/situation is just useless and we should always let it flow. The best things happen when we let it flow

@chris_onabike Жыл бұрын

Absolutely spot on! Coming up to 10 months solo riding to Argentina. You can dip in and out of groups as you like, real peace and tranquillity when you want it. You get to own your troubles and successes. Much love from Mexico!

@rmecstro1641 Жыл бұрын

Fear and lack of self-confidence are psychological barriers that make you stick to your comfort zone so you have to have enough courage to tear your ass out of it and then the human being adapts to any situation by learning and improving their skills. You're right Giant Cheerio👍

@menohaveaname Жыл бұрын

This was a really helpful video. It’s encouraging to know that someone who makes this look natural has some of the same thoughts and feelings as me. It makes it seem possible!

@frankducett9 Жыл бұрын

Yes to all you have said, I found all of these things out for myself after my wife of 42 years died and I was alone. And the part about "imaginary fears" is probably widespread these crazy days. But things for most of us are better than in 1944. I am glad I found you.

@richjs1 Жыл бұрын

Inspirational...not just a journey on two wheels 🚴 but a journey of self discovery 🙏

@oliverschembri9211 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience. I long to do this but I'm getting old, have family, never even camped. My ambition is small but working on it in small steps. I think all that you mentioned are my worries. I hope I could say I did a short solo trip by summer of 2024, you and others would have a contribution to getting this done. Thanks again.

@Louis-ic1nn Жыл бұрын

Hey, maybe scale your idea right down to something achievable then build on that success? Say aim to take a bus or train to stay one night in the nearest city or rural location in a cheapo travel lodge or youth hostel; visit something cool there like a gallery or gardens, river/beach/woodland to connect with nature then come back home successful. Small start = big success. Btw you're not old, that's not even a thing : )

@mortonmedia Жыл бұрын

"Go with the flow, don't think too much and enjoy the moment" This is what i needed to hear, thank you

@dems_mtb Жыл бұрын

Very inspiring! Thank you for sharing!!

@cibablea Жыл бұрын

Great insights. Thanks for sharing.

@mikekearsley2407 Жыл бұрын

Wow!!! Absolutely fantastic. Thanks from Seattle.

@martinsmith6042 Жыл бұрын

Inspiring! Great words of wisdom.

@burakyucel802 10 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing your experiences and the great explanations.

@MX5Fanatic Жыл бұрын

Yay! A Giant_Cheerio video! Lot's of wisdom in this one. Very motivational.

@chriskalberg6356 Жыл бұрын

Wonderful advice! Very well said and so inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing.

@GernotCycling Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your advices and tips! I start my journey in a couple of days and this helped me a lot :)

@baler1992 Жыл бұрын

Such wonderful positivity Cherio! Stay awesome! You are a great human being!

@bradlyttle Жыл бұрын

Very open, very honest, and very helpful. Great advice for traveling thru life. Thank you Cheerio! ATB.

@mariocouture1596 Жыл бұрын

Beautiful and great video! Very inspiring and full of truth! Well done and thank you so much for sharing all those invaluable lessons learned. Many, like me, will refer back to your video as a source of inspiration when doubt creeps in or worse... Fear... Stay safe on the road and keep your great videos coming! 🙏👋☺

@thosebikepackers Жыл бұрын

Some great advice, thanks!

@StefanSiegl23 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this great video. I appreciate your positivity and your such an inspiration 💚

@ianlaken3980 Ай бұрын

You are a wise lady, inspirational video, enjoy your travels.

@peterhel1077 Жыл бұрын

i just love love love your videos. starting my first bikepacking trip in 2 weeks.

@robinferguson8911 Жыл бұрын

I totally get what you mean. I am also so much stronger than I ever thought. Bike touring and life has shown me that for sure. Thanks for the video!

@VERY_VARIOUS_VIDEOS Жыл бұрын

Great video, thank you!

@wardsnauwaert6709 Жыл бұрын

So helpfull and liberating to hear this stuff! Great video!

@theduckrc211v4 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing Cheerio , . I need to say YES more often .!

@gulangak831 Жыл бұрын

These 7 tips are definitely helpful in terms of riding solo on a bike especially long journey ride. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your ride and have a nice day.

@mihaylo_kovin Жыл бұрын

It was very inspirational! Thanks!

@djiembefolaDan Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for sharing! I think this has been your best video yet. You have learned alot from your travels and I'm pleased for you. You will keep getting more experienced and more capable; excellent life lessons while traveling through the beautiful countryside! Bravo!

@urbanjunglerider9229 Жыл бұрын

Great advice and words to make any dreamer to convince that things are possible! Thank you for your input on fear, self esteem, and confidence😊

@astridvanbreenen3757 Жыл бұрын

Thank you! Very inspiring and very wise. I’ll keep that in mind, planning my first solo bike trip from Utrecht to the Mediterranean. 🙏🏼

@andrewkleinhenz8487 Жыл бұрын

These are excellent words to live by. Whether I or not you are a bicycle traveler or a regular person living a "traditional" life. You are an inspiration. Wish I had your courage!

@Karammusleh Жыл бұрын

wow thank you for sharing your great experiences

@maeseisra Жыл бұрын

Really Giant! Thanks for inspiring us.

@chuto4826 Жыл бұрын

Cheerio 🚴❤️ Happy to hear about you after a while, one of your best videos. Keep enjoying.

@starfighter1972 Жыл бұрын

Number 8: You are incredibly beautiful and sweet. Thanks for the encouragement Giant Cheerio.

@daniv7402 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this genuine and inspirational video; I'm constantly doubting, always second guessing myself, frozen into inaction, I needed this 🙏. Safe travels!

@jkh977 Жыл бұрын

Thank you, getting ready to tour the coast of the UK, within the next couple of months. What you said can be used in everyday life. I can relate to what you have said. 🙏🌞🌻🐝🦋🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

@billcompton6050 Жыл бұрын

Thx Giant Cheerio Part of the adventure is figuring stuff out. I am no expert by any means but I have been on a few adventures-hiking-biking-bikepacking . You are spot on with your comments about the attitude and being self sufficient and just going with the flow. thank you Da Breeze

@anastephens3030 Жыл бұрын

This is why I am so excited to go on a long solo bikepacking trip. It doesn't have to be bikepacking, of course. But we all could use this kind of self-discovery: to explore the limits of ourselves and-as humbling as it can be-find how woefully tiny and inaccurate our map ourselves is. "Here there be monsters" and all sorts of nonsense. Well done, to all of you undertaking this kind of journey. And good luck in dispelling your own "flat earth" vision of yourself.

@justincrediblelife Жыл бұрын

Wow great video, just came across your channel and really like the vibes. I did a bike touring trip across eastern Europe and turkey and I agree with the sentiment. It's as much about the inner journey as the outer journey. I feel like everything you encounter on the road is a lesson to teach you something or growth waiting to happen when you understand the meaning of it. Cool hearing your thoughts on the road, it's such a beautiful way to live and time in your life. :-)

@elcoach5406 Жыл бұрын

you are so strong and Inspirational person. big fan from " Egypt " middle east .

@janmijanmi8567 Жыл бұрын

A travel for your body and your mind too!... What else !!? happy to watch this video. Have fun in your life .🙂

@mohamedworld28 Жыл бұрын

You always make me happy😁❤❤❤❤

@LeneLarsenNorway Жыл бұрын

My sweet, wise, though friend. LOVE THIS!

@cycling-croatia 6 ай бұрын

Thank you for your wise words that one can apply far beyond cycling, to life in general. Bravo!

@RideWithMe_eu Жыл бұрын

Great, positive vid 👍👍thanks

@dorienboer5258 6 ай бұрын

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I recognize myself in the misconceptions you had about yourself. I'm preparing for a 8 month during trip through Europe and your advice reassures me. I thought the tip 'say YES' was such a good tip!🎉 Thanks and good luck to all the solo bikepackers (travelers) out there!

@nachikitasfire1549 Жыл бұрын

When yesses are over, you'll just speak ur heart

@davidbrankley1645 Жыл бұрын

Yes, always say yes. Especially when the question is " how about a beer?" I've never regretted a free beer.

@fredsmith601 Жыл бұрын

Wonderful! Such inspiring and intelligent words. Go GC ! :-)

@austinsnow197 Жыл бұрын

Love your videos,Cheerio :)

@BRICOLAB Жыл бұрын

It's really nice to hear from your voice what I think every day that I get on the saddle and get lost with my bicycle ❤❤❤

@0Stella Жыл бұрын

thank you so much for this! I'll be cycling solo and playing shows for the next year all across Europe starting this July. I hope we can cross paths!

@juliansiegert356 Жыл бұрын

Thanks :) i'll hit the road and travel solo for the first time soon and this was very helpful

@phillipcowan1444 Жыл бұрын

You look good! Glowing even. The gypsy life really agrees with you. Your new found confidence is inspiring. Am looking forward to your next report. Good luck errr I mean break a leg.🙂

@jitsekalsbeek5055 Жыл бұрын

thank you Cheerio, very inspiring talk! Next year my plan is to cycle up north and end at the North Cape............,.

@robertsanders8866 Жыл бұрын

Love ur content 👍👍. Cheers

@keironmcgrath1740 Жыл бұрын

so much stronger than you think , and when it,s just you who else can you count on !

@zukzworld Жыл бұрын

Thanks, really.❤ I will start in first week of May.

@walterzikalala Жыл бұрын

Inspirational words!

@theartofginablickenstaff1314 9 ай бұрын

You go girl!

@naishanaomie Жыл бұрын

Thnx for sharing your experience 😊😊you Soo nice I proud of you❤❤du bist eine Champions

@AT-db4rn Жыл бұрын

Keep inspiring. 👍

@thomasdecarlo8543 Жыл бұрын

No joke … you are my bike packing hero …..

@neilburrows6670 11 ай бұрын

Superb! :)

@McStoolio Жыл бұрын

That’s it, the last one. It frustrates me that people go through life not knowing or understanding their capabilities. You never understand them until you push yourself. It’s annoying when you hear folks saying they could never do such things. Well done pushing your limits

@adamnovina2139 Жыл бұрын

Words od wisdom my lady. Listening to you i might be thinking that we are very similiar to eachother. .. cheers Cheerio 🙂

@davidalderson7761 Жыл бұрын

Key wise words are YES and FEAR. Too many people say No ( me included ) too many people won’t because of the tiny chance of bad and fear overtakes them.

@Rerouting_ Жыл бұрын

I can agree to everything! ❤

@bettyourcampervan Жыл бұрын

Fab video xx

@paulha2998 Жыл бұрын

great video

@anujkerketta2947 Жыл бұрын

I like your editing.

@aymericr.7022 Жыл бұрын

When I see a tent in the middle of nowhere, I often imagine a super fit guy inside with big muscles and so on. Then I dont really want to disturb his night. The fear is often inverted with what we can feel at first. Regarding helpful people, it is incredible the number of people that are happy to help. I often spend some nights by strangers and when i leave in the morning they thank me !? Why ? I still don't fully understand, maybe for doing something they would enjoy but never find the force to make it. maybe for sharing moments of truth... Keep going Giant, you are probably even more stronger than you realize.

@PierreLaBaguette Жыл бұрын

i'd love to hear some thoughts about how to camp in the wild as a bikepacker, dos and don'ts, different possible conditions, when you chose to not camp in the wild, why, and so on. otherwise i really appreciate your openness. also your learnings don't sound like clichés at all! i wonder what your next steps (or pedal-pushes) are. good luck!

@Ieatfridays Жыл бұрын

Hey cheerio, are you going on any more travels this year? Love your videos, keep up the good work..

@michielansoms3561 2 ай бұрын

I never bikepacked in my life, 14 May i go to the northcape from belgium! Love to grow as a person! Thank you for youre inspiring video!

@giantcheerio 2 ай бұрын

What a long way to go! Enjoy your adventure and fingers crossed for heaps of tailwinds:)

@michielansoms3561 2 ай бұрын

@@giantcheerio Thx for the support you guys are the best!

@jaygorakht5135 Жыл бұрын

Enjoying from nepal✌️😍

@deminmax Жыл бұрын

Girl, Tony Robbins is now in trouble :) Good stuff.

@themjpull4052 Жыл бұрын

Well spoken

@bicweld Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!)) I watch every video of yours several times, I like everything) I would like to know more about your new tent, new bike and what happened to the old one? Thank you)))

@giantcheerio Жыл бұрын

The new tent is a Wechsel exogen 2. Its awesome! My beloved old bike is stored in Germany. I was thinking of selling it, but it has so much emotionial value, I couldn't let go of it.

@hipperdipper111 Жыл бұрын

I think I am in love with Giant Cheerio. No, not in a creepy way, but in love with her as an inspirational figure. Fear fear fear. I am an insulin-dependent diabetic. I am closing in on 60 years. I am not flush with cash. Fears fears fears. I am planning my first multi-country bike-packing trip, from Chicago to southern Colombia. Giant Cheerios words of inspiration will be in my head through every fearful as well as joyous moment.

@soloist777 Жыл бұрын

"Fear and hope are phantoms." - Lao Tze.

@aneal.dongol Жыл бұрын

thanks cheerio :) inspirational and wonderful positive words . thank you again

@talmi12000 Жыл бұрын

Just ❤

@antonia4722 4 ай бұрын

Ive traveled to many places in the world, many of which were remote and under my own power, solo. I have found that most people are good people but bastards are everywhere. Second is that your limits are much further than you could ever think they are..third is that nothing is ever as bad as you think it would be. ..fourth is Nothing to fear but fear itself. It stops you dealing with a situation effectively! Fifth..Be prepared.A knife and pepper spray can be very effective deterrents..keep them handy.

@starringchristopher Жыл бұрын

I notice solo women travelers get extra nice hospitality ......haha......nice vid.....thank you!

@TM-19999 Жыл бұрын

O Hi Cheerio, nice to see your vlog appeared suddenly, well thanks for explaining and sharing all of your experiences and very importantly the lessons you learnt. I just wondering how did you manage your toilet activities especially when you happen to be far away from the public toilets.

@giantcheerio Жыл бұрын

Hi Tariq, a legitimate question and all I can say is that there is no need of a toilet when living in nature. Nature basically is the toilet. But as everywhere, traveler's gotta make sure to leave each spot tidy & clean & ''leave no trace'' ;))

@annaeglite8916 Жыл бұрын

❤❤❤

@edymarkonthego4096 5 ай бұрын

Skills must be learn is to fix a bike with limited parts. Being stranded in the middle of nowhere is a no joke. Tools is very essential for long ride.

@ascot1049 Жыл бұрын

You're. Certainly not weak.

@ayoubovcvlog1992 11 ай бұрын

Hi how are you doing I hope you are doing well I'm really surprised because I found you every where on Instagram Facebook I remember the first time I saw your post I like your pictures under the rain it was cool and just by chance I'm here to looking for solution to give my dog this chance to be with me and I found you here I'm really happy for you love you ✌️❤️

@bikealventures9368 7 ай бұрын

💯

@WiWillemijn Жыл бұрын

I have a question: do you have experience with being chased/attacked by dogs? I would like to bike travel but I am afraid of being attacked.

@CRAIGNV Жыл бұрын

BIKE TOURER HERE, I'VE HAD HUNDREDS OF DOGS RUN AFTER/ALONGSIDE ME BARKING, BUT HAVE NEVER BEEN BITTEN OR ATTACKED, FUNNY THING IS IF YOU STOP, THEY WILL RUN AWAY, I'VE EVEN TURNED AROUND AND CHASED AFTER THEM, JUST FOR FUN, ALL BARK NO BITE. DON'T SHOW FEAR. HOPE THAT HELPS

@rdiazroman Жыл бұрын

Thank you very nice video! Maybe a bit personal but how do you manage the financial situation? living with savings, or you work remote somehow? I think this questions is also one of the "fears" for many people. Thanks again and enjoy!

@giantcheerio Жыл бұрын

it's a frequently asked question and of course, its an important one. I am financing my life on the road via online jobs, social media, my videos & my cheeriotic Community ❤️