It is a big expense for someone starting from scratch. One approach could be to take a short tour, say two nights, and staying in Bed and Breakfast places or taking just enough equipment to brew up a cup of tea and eating out at cafes etc. This would be more expensive than self catering of course but would help you to get started into cycle touring. Then you could buy more gear as you become more aware of what is available by comparing kit with others you meet on the road or in campsites.DeHoody said:I must say that when looking at all of this equipment the cost does rack up, I only hope after spending out that my first tour is enjoyable.
snorri said:It is a big expense for someone starting from scratch. One approach could be to take a short tour, say two nights, and staying in Bed and Breakfast places or taking just enough equipment to brew up a cup of tea and eating out at cafes etc. This would be more expensive than self catering of course but would help you to get started into cycle touring. Then you could buy more gear as you become more aware of what is available by comparing kit with others you meet on the road or in campsites.
willem said:The problem with such suggestions is that B&B's and places to eat out are so expensive. Of course that depends on where you sleep and what you eat, but by and large the cost of serious camping gear is about the same as what you spend on accommodation and eating out in only one summer holiday. Economically I would rather buy the gear and try for a summer. If you like it you are done. If you don't like it (hard to imagine), you can keep some of the gear, and sell the rest second hand. Moreover, is there nothing you can borrow?
Willem
I'm in Andalucia at the moment and Ive been paying on average about 20 euros for a room with private bathroom, usually a TV, and sometimes airconditioning and wifi! you can get a good meal for less than 10 euros.