Just set out on a hike or bike ride: What makes an organized trip special?
Planning a route, finding suitable hotels, organizing luggage transport, and putting together maps… When planning a multi-day hiking or biking trip, there’s a lot to prepare and consider. This is where a tour operator’s experience really pays off.
With tour operators like Feuer und Eis Touristik, the tours are tested and reviewed in advance, and customer feedback is incorporated into the planning. The tour operator handles the detailed itinerary, books accommodations, organizes luggage transport, and provides maps, tour descriptions, and GPX data.
It’s almost a bit like an all-inclusive vacation—except that instead of a pool and a beach, there’s a new leg of the journey every day, plenty of nature, and the next destination waiting.
Source: Andi Kern
Still, you can’t get by without doing some preparation on your own.
With a selection of approximately 400 hiking and biking tours, there should be something to suit just about every preference. Once you’ve chosen and booked your trip, there are still a few things you’ll need to take care of yourself.
You’ll need to plan and organize your own travel to and from the destination (e.g., by train), review your travel documents and itineraries, and put together the right gear.
You should also take your fitness level into account when choosing a trip. Here’s a tip: The listed difficulty levels can help you select a tour that matches your fitness level and experience. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking directly with the tour operator.
Another thing to keep in mind when planning is insurance coverage: For hiking trips involving Feuer und Eis, accident and rescue coverage are included in the trip price; for our cycling trips, bicycle coverage in case of breakdown or theft is also included. We also recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance.
But how do I book an organized cycling or hiking tour? And isn’t that too expensive?
Of course, you have to decide for yourself which trip to take. A few basic considerations—such as whether you want to travel alone, with a partner, or in a group, and whether you’d prefer a hiking or biking trip—can help narrow down your options. If you’re unsure or having trouble deciding, the tour operator will be happy to assist you. Personalized, one-on-one advice ensures a stress-free tour selection—a definite plus long before the tour even begins.
At first glance, an organized hiking or biking tour might seem more expensive than a trip you plan yourself. However, it’s worth taking a closer look. In addition to the booked accommodations and meals, the tour price includes many other services, and you benefit from legal protection.
It’s not necessarily the type of organization that has a major impact on your travel budget, but rather the type and duration of the trip: How many days do you want to be on the road? Do you need luggage transfer? Would you prefer to travel independently or with a guide? For some trips, there are also different accommodation categories to choose from.
Step by Step: Planning an Organized Cycling or Hiking Trip
From the initial idea for a trip to the start of the first leg, there are a few things to keep in mind, even on an organized tour. Our schedule shows you what you should plan and prepare, and when.
As early as possible – Choose & book your trip
- Choose a trip type: Hiking, biking, crossing the Alps, individual or group trip?
- Choose a destination and difficulty level: the foothills of the Alps, low mountain ranges, high mountains/alpine terrain, flatter tours, or themed trips (circular tours, wine or beer tours, pilgrimages, etc.)?
- Determine the trip duration: Weekend trip or a break lasting several weeks?
- Choose a travel package and customize it as needed: With or without luggage transfer, with special amenities (charm package), with extra nights at specific stops along the route, or with other additional services?
- Prepare: Work on your fitness and stamina, and enjoy the anticipation
Four weeks before—Make concrete travel arrangements
- Review your travel documents (check the stages, kilometers, elevation gain, and walking/travel times)
- Plan your arrival and departure (find out about designated parking areas, if applicable)
- Pack your luggage and gear
7 days before – Weather & final details
- Monitor weather conditions
- Adjust your gear and clothing accordingly
- Test GPX maps on your smartphone or GPS device
- Have the necessary documents ready
On Tour – Packing a Backpack
- Check the latest weather forecast
- Pack your daypack and luggage (make sure to meet the baggage check-in deadlines)
- Keep your tickets, travel documents, and cash within easy reach
Let’s get started: Being well-prepared makes for a great start. You’ll quickly get used to hiking or biking for several days. By day 2 at the latest, you’ll be familiar with the routine.
Any questions?
How does luggage transport work? Can I bring my dog along on the trip? Is trip cancellation insurance already included?
You’ll find all the important answers at FAQ: Bike Tours and FAQ Hiking Trips
Source: Andi Kern
Which Alpine crossing should I choose? You can find help with this decision here:
Our Feuer und Eis travel experts are here to provide you with personalized, no-obligation, and free advice. We’d be happy to help you with any questions you may have about your dream trip! Call us directly at (+49 8022 66364–0) or contact us via our contact form.