How to plan an e-bike tour: Everything you need to know before you start
Thinking about planning your first e-bike tour but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. There’s a lot to consider, but with a bit of prep (and maybe a slice of cake along the way), it can be one of the best holidays you’ll ever take.
Start with the Big Questions
Ask yourself:
- What do I want to see?
- How far do I want to go each day?
- Do I want to carry my own bags or have them delivered?
- Am I happy booking everything myself, or would I rather have someone help?
- Hotel, B&B, or camping?
Being clear on these points will shape how to plan the rest.
Planning Your Route
Route planning will make or break your holiday. You don’t want to have expectations like lovely lakeside views, but end up pedalling alongside a motorway for miles. Or your overnight accommodation means an extra 10km uphill at the end of a hot, tiring day.
There are great tour operators who do it all, from booking accommodation to transporting your bags. If you want to enjoy the ride without the admin, this could be the way to go.
If you like planning (like I do), then dive into maps, guidebooks and apps like Google Maps or Komoot. Double-check the daily distances and any hills; those elevation numbers matter, especially after a few days in the saddle.
Want a shortcut? Try a route book like this one for the Drau River: 👉 Bikeline Drau Route Guide
This is what planning the hard way looks like. I love it, but I have had 30 years of experience planning holidays for others, so doing it for myself is a dream.
If you are going DIY? Use the right tools.
If you decide to plan your own route, pick a signposted path and buy a good guidebook. I use Bikeline books all the time, clear maps, suggested places to stay, and most are available in English:
👉 📚 Bikeline Tour Books
Think about what kind of trip you want:
- Do you want to get from A to B quickly?
- Or take your time, enjoy the scenery, and stop for strudel?
Be realistic. Day 3 legs can feel heavy, and bike saddles don’t get comfier with time. A route with 90km and 700m climbing might sound doable, but how will it feel after lunch?
Think About the Details
- Distance per day: Start small if you’re new to it. You can always ride more if you’re feeling strong.
- Overnight stops: Make sure there’s somewhere to stay when you want to stop, not just a field.
- Battery charging: Don’t get caught out. If you’re covering long distances or climbing hills, check for charging points along the way. This map is handy: 👉 🔋 E-Bike Charging Stations in Austria
Logistics: Start and Finish
You’ve got your route. Now what?
- How are you getting to the starting point?
- How will you (and your bike) get home at the end?
This is something people often forget until the last minute, but it can be a dealbreaker. Flights, trains, buses, and bikes may need to be booked in advance to ensure there is availability and space. Did you consider your overnight accommodation? How to book it? Direct with the hotel or property, or use a booking platform?
Luggage or Panniers?
Are you taking all your luggage with you on your bike? Have you ever carried panniers on a bike before? How heavy will they be? What if it rains? What happens if all my clothes get wet? Or are you going to transport your luggage separately each day? How will you organise that?
Or take the easy route… Let someone else plan it.
👉 🚲 Eurobike Austria – Trusted E-Bike Tour Operator.
I have heard very good reports from Eurobike from customers I have met, and I have recommended them to family and friends, too.
👉 👩🏫 https://www.facebook.com/acrosstheglobewithsue.
Travel Agents have vast experience booking holidays, and they don’t charge more for their service. If you want excellent service, someone who will answer your questions quickly and deal with issues when you are away, then an independent travel agent is what you need. I would highly recommend Sue for all your bike holiday needs.
👉 🌄 Tourist Info for the Drau Bike Path.
You can also ask the local tourist offices. Many are brilliant at helping with hotels, bike hire and local tips.
Final Thoughts
Planning your own e-bike tour takes time, but it’s worth it if you enjoy the process. If it feels like too much, talk to a travel agent, tour operator or ask the local tourist board for help.
However you decide to book, the freedom you feel on an e-bike holiday is like nothing else.
Let me know if you’d like help planning your own adventure. I’m always happy to share tips!
