Tips & Planning

Discover essential active travel packing tips from Backroads Trip Leaders, including layering clothing, versatile gear, rain gear essentials and comfortable footwear. Learn smart strategies to stay organized and pack efficiently for any adventure.

If you’re new to group travel—or just the Backroads way of doing it—a little insider know-how can make all the difference. What specific details should you consider when searching our thousands of trips for the one that’ll suit you best? What’s nonnegotiable when it comes to packing your biking and…

Our Trip‑Leader‑approved river cruise packing tips: experience‑tested advice to help you have everything you need for an unforgettable active travel cruise along Europe’s waterways.

Happy feet make all the difference on an active trip. When your footwear is dialed in, you can focus on the ride, the trail and the moments in between. A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to choose the right hiking shoes and keep your feet comfortable, supported and ready for whatever t…

Bolzano is a great base for Dolomites adventures—so much so that we start many of our northern Italy trips here. Nestled in the heart of South Tyrol, Bolzano blends Austrian, Italian and Ladin influences in everything from its architecture and cuisine to its language and traditions. Historically, Bo…

At Backroads, we track industry trends, but we prefer to set them.

We all love to get away, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a longer trip further afield or a once-in-a-lifetime journey to a bucket-list location. We also love coming home with lots of pretty pictures to share with friends and family and of course to post online. As the Backroads photo editor, I’m her…

Taking your kids abroad for the first time can feel like a leap. New cultures, unfamiliar routines, long flights and all the decision-making—it’s no surprise that many families hesitate. But family travel abroad can be incredibly rewarding and totally worth it. Here’s the secret: it’s much less over…

Europe isn't just a patchwork of must-see cities and postcard-perfect landscapes—it's home to some of the world’s most unforgettable must-do experiences. We're talking about the things people dream of doing their whole lives. These are moments of pure adrenaline, joy, awe and cultural connection tha…

Here at Backroads, we’re biking and hiking experts—but we’re also seriously dedicated hotel pros. Every year, our local experts around the world scope their region’s most beautiful and romantic hotels. Then our hotel team gets to work, selecting the best of a great bunch for guests on our active tra…