The ultimate family guide to summer cycling adventures

Frog ultimate family guide to summer cycling adventures - family riding on bikes on the grass

Summer is the perfect season to create unforgettable memories outdoors, and what better way to do that than with a family bike ride? 

We’ve created the Ultimate family guide to summer cycling adventures - packed with practical tips, a family-friendly route finder, must-have gear, and essential safety advice for parents.


Why summer cycling adventures are perfect for families

Cycling together builds stronger family bonds, boosts kids’ confidence, and makes exercise feel like fun, not a chore. Plus, it gets children away from screens and into nature.

Benefits of family cycling: 

  • Affordable, active fun for all ages
  • Encourages kids to be independent and resilient
  • Helps develop motor skills and road awareness
  • Sustainable and environmentally friendly travel option

How to plan the perfect family bike ride

Planning your route in advance helps ensure that your family day out is enjoyable, safe and suited to your child’s ability. The key? Keep it fun, flat, and flexible.

What to look for when choosing a route: 

  • Traffic-free cycle paths: Ideal for little legs and peace of mind
  • Flat terrain: Gentle gradients make riding more enjoyable
  • Regular break points: Parks, cafés, nature reserves and ice cream stops are great motivators
  • Loop routes: Convenient and ideal for avoiding backtracking

⇒ Use Komoot’s family-friendly tool to find your next adventure with ease!


What to pack for a family cycling adventure

Being well-prepared can turn a potential meltdown into a magical day out. Here’s what every cycling parent should have in their kit.

Family cycling day trip checklist:

 For everyone:

  • Properly fitting bike helmets - SAFETY FIRST!
  • Water bottles and healthy, energy-boosting snacks
  • Lightweight waterproof jackets
  • Sun cream, hats, and sunglasses
  • Phone, power bank & a paper map for backup
  • First aid kit and insect repellent
  • Bike locks and multitools

Consider packing a lightweight picnic blanket for rest stops in the shade.

For kids:

  • Spare clothes (for muddy puddles and snack spills!)
  • Small backpack or handlebar bag
  • Books, soft toys, or travel games for breaks
  • Their favourite bike bell or basket for added fun

Consider freezing water bottles overnight to keep them cool for longer on hot days.


Essential bike safety tips for parents

Safety is always a top priority when cycling with kids. Make sure every ride starts and ends with a smile by following these simple steps:

Pre-ride safety checks:

  • Do the M-check: brakes, tyres, chain, handlebars and saddle
  • Ensure each bike fits properly - use our Frog fitting guide
  • Practice hand signals and emergency stops in a quiet space

⇒ Consider attaching a small mirror to adult bikes to keep an eye on your little riders behind you.

Road safety tips for cycling with children:

  • Use the bike safety checklist before heading out
  • Always ride single file on narrow paths
  • An adult should ride behind younger children, and one in front if needed
  • Encourage kids to ring their bell when passing walkers
  • Make sure everyone knows basic cycling etiquette

⇒ Consider high-vis clothing or reflective stickers for extra visibility.

And, remember - don't forget your helmets! - Safety first!


How to keep kids engaged on the ride

Parents know if the kids aren’t having fun, the ride won’t last long! Keep them motivated with mini-adventures built into your ride.

Ways to make family bike rides more fun:

  • Let kids be the “ride leader” for a section
  • Create a nature scavenger hunt
  • Plan a mystery destination (like a new playground or café)
  • Reward progress with stickers or a picnic treat
  • Extend the fun with an overnight bike-camping trip!

⇒ Why not name each ride something fun, like “The great ice cream quest” or “Squirrel safari ride”?


Need a kid’s bike that can keep up?

If your child has outgrown their current bike, it may be time for a new one. At Frog Bikes, we design lightweight, high-performance bikes specifically for children’s proportions, making riding easier, more comfortable and more fun.

From balance bikes for toddlers to hybrid, mountain and road bikes for older kids, we’ve got a perfect fit for every stage. Plus, they’re built to last and pass on.

Shop our full range at frogbikes.com

For up to 40% off bikes, shop our factory outlet >>


Ready to ride?

Summer family cycling adventures are about more than miles, they're about memories. With a little planning, the right equipment, and the perfect attitude, your family could be just one bike ride away from your best day ever.

So grab your helmets, pack your snacks, and hop on your bikes. Let the summer cycling adventures begin!

Don’t forget to tag us in your awesome adventures! @frogbikes #frogbikes

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