The idea: park once – and then get on the bike

You arrive, park your camper under shady trees, unfold the awning – and don't feel like packing everything up again just for a quick trip to the village? This is where the folding bike comes into its own. Unfolded in just a few seconds, it takes you to the bakery, the nearest lake, or on a tour of the surrounding area – all without the noise of the engine and the hassle of searching for a parking space.

Vanlife means freedom. Folding bikes give you even more of it – quiet, lightweight, and local.

Why folding bikes are ideal for campers

A regular bike is often too bulky. A folding bike, on the other hand:

• fits in the rear garage, under the bed or behind the passenger seat

• weighs little (many models under 15 kg)

• can be folded and unfolded without tools

• suitable for city & country, thanks to stable frame and good tires

For many vanlifers, it has long been standard to have two folding bikes on board – this way, two people can stay mobile without having to move the camper.

Electric or classic?

The folding e-bike

Perfect for longer trips, hilly terrain, or headwinds. It's also ideal if you want to sweat less—for example, while strolling around town or in summer temperatures.

🔋 Batteries often last for 40–80 km.
🔌 Can be charged via campsite electricity, a solar panel or an inverter.

The classic folding bike

Lightweight, low-maintenance, and affordable—a smart choice for short trips. Many campers appreciate the simplicity and minimalist feel.

How to use your bike in everyday camping

• Day trips from the campsite: nature reserves, viewpoints, farm shops – all accessible without leaving base camp.

• City trips without stress: No traffic jams, no parking tickets, no traffic – simply cycle into the old town.

• Shopping & errands: Market, supermarket, pharmacy – all easy on two wheels.

• Sustainable routines: Getting fresh water, disposing of rubbish or simply picking up bread in the morning – cycling turns it into a daily exercise routine.

Travel more sustainably – with a good feeling

Camping and sustainability don't always go hand in hand – but a folding bike helps improve the balance. You save fuel, reduce emissions, and get active through the countryside. Many vanlifers report that they hardly use their car while on vacation anymore because the bike is simply more comfortable.

Drive less. Experience more. That's the essence of sustainable camping.

Tips for folding bike campers

✅ Organize transport safely: Anti-slip mat in the storage space, tensioning straps or folding holders help with safe storage.
✅ Don't forget maintenance: oil the chain, check the tires, check the brakes - especially if the bike is in the van for a longer period of time.
✅ Don’t forget the lock: Well-secured bikes are also important at the campsite.
✅ Take your helmet, light & bag with you: This way you are always prepared for spontaneous tours.

Conclusion: The folding bike is the new vanlife must-have

Whether it's a short trip to the water, a leisurely stroll through town, or a trip through forests and meadows – the folding bike not only makes life in a van easier, but also more sustainable. It's the perfect addition for anyone who loves freedom and wants to keep their ecological footprint small.

Vanlife with a bike is more than a trend – it’s a way of life.