I started bike touring/camping at 13, and did it because, I had 2 other mates, we lived in the bush in NSW, that had some fantastic places within 50 miles for us to visit, so we started going on weekends and our school holidays. After that I did it on an off during my career, for about 10 years, then came back to it in the late 90's. Stopped until 2016, and was looking for something I could do, that was not expensive and would incorporate my love of camping, and to be able to bring my dog along. Now I try to get out once a month, for a few days, and once or twice a year for a big trip. What I have noticed as I am 60 now, that it is getting harder to ride long distances - a lot more aches and pains.