Swytch adding to the emerging trend of bikepacking
According to the 2022 Travel Trends study by luxury travel network Virtuoso, carried out in collaboration with YouGov, just over a fifth (21%) of travelers worldwide are now traveling for reasons related to their health and wellness. Bikepacking is a new trend in the wellness industry that is gaining popularity. This style of adventure riding entails multi-day mountain bike excursions off of paved roads. In bikepacking, cyclists carry their gear and provisions with them, often using lightweight and compact bags attached directly to the bike's frame, handlebars, and seat post. It allows bikers to explore distant and beautiful regions that are unreachable by traditional road bikes by fusing aspects of classic cycle touring with the toughness of mountain biking. For those looking to give bikepacking a go, the cycling experts at Swytch delve into why this trend is proving so popular and what you need to get started.
Since the pandemic, the focus on health and wellbeing has escalated significantly with 8 in 10 adults deciding to modify their lifestyle since the pandemic according to Gov.uk, and bikepacking aligns perfectly with this growing trend. It emerges as an ideal activity, offering the chance to escape from the urban hustle and bustle, finding solace in the tranquillity of natural surroundings. Moreover, bikepacking taps into the increasing trend of minimalism, encouraging cyclists to pack light and carry only the essentials. This approach to travel not only enhances agility and manoeuvrability but also aligns with the desire for a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Overall, bikepacking's rising popularity can be attributed to its ability to offer an all-encompassing experience. From the thrill of adventure to the pursuit of health and wellness, and the chance to embrace minimalism, bikepacking satisfies a diverse range of desires for modern travellers seeking a fulfilling holiday activity.
As technology advances these types of holidays become more accessible. Technology has enabled the growth of wellness travel and bikepacking as the information to planning these types of trips is readily available. There are also a variety of wellness devices which allow individuals to track their fitness and health and tailor experiences to fit their needs. Swytch themselves have created a kit allowing any bike to be turned into an e-bike - making cycling more accessible for those who want to partake in such trends without worrying about whether they are fit enough.
CEO and co-founder of Swytch Technology, Oliver Montague, commented:
"Bikepacking is becoming increasingly popular as an outdoor activity because it offers the ideal balance of adventure, wellness, and freedom. Bikepacking enables people to experience the joy of self-sufficiency on an exhilarating off-road ride while exploring beautiful landscapes, disconnecting from daily stress, and connecting with nature.”
Swytch was founded by engineers Oliver Montague and Dmitro Khroma in 2017 in response to an obvious gap in the market for a sustainable transport solution. The idea first developed when Oliver was cycling to his workplace to meet with his boss. Despite travelling similar distances, Oliver had broken into a sweat whereas his boss arrived impeccably dressed, simply because he was on an eBike.