Originally Posted by
antokelly
what way do you folk reckon is the best way to set up camp after a hard day's cycling ,what work's best for you.do you pitch your tent first,or put the kettle on,or have a shower .cook a meal.
hope this post dosen't sound like a no brainer,but it seem's everyone has a different method of doing things .im trying to find out ,if there is a favourate way of getting you set up for the night.
The best way seems to depend, for me, on circumstances. I just do what seems to be called for at the moment. It varies from spot to spot, season to season, mood to mood, etc.
My favorites might be the times when I just roll up alongside a tree (in a quiet, out of the way place), with flat ground around it, covered in soft leaves -- then simply lean my bike against the tree, open the pannier where I keep my sleeping gear, toss my sleeping bag on the leaves right next to the bike, and sack out. -- Or just relax, or do whatever needs to be done, or wants to be done, or nothing at all.
It's very nice having the bike right next to the sleeping bag. The bike then serves as a set of already-organized and right-at-hand cupboards/shelves/drink holders/medicine chest/snack cabinet/fridge/fruit bowl/writing drawer/bookshelf/camera bag/entertainment center/pantry/tool chest/towel rack/kitchen/trusty uncomplaining companion/shaving kit/sewing kit/barber shop/map center/clothing closet/and-anything-I-need center, all conveniently located, within reach, and right next to my new sofa and reclining spot.
If hungry, I will often have some some ready-to-eat food (bananas, muesli, whatever else I have). Then brush teeth, rinse, relax or sack out, or do a little exploring of the surrounding area. Maybe go for a swim.
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The bike also remains more or less packed (things are replaced after use), so it is basically ready to roll in the morning -- it's very simple to replace the sleeping bag and break camp.