The closer it was to summer, the more I had been waiting for another bike touring trip on the west coast of Ireland. I felt suffocated in the city, and needed a change, a break from daily routine, bikepacking, although it’s not an easy thing, gives me a sense of freedom, each day is different, and each day brings a new adventure. Yes, it’s not easy, it all looks beautiful on photos and social media, beautiful and romantic sunsets and sunrises by the ocean, sandy beaches with crystal clear water, cycling every day, breathtaking views, etc.

It’s all true, but you must also know that such a trip is also a considerable effort, and can be tough. Unpredictable Irish weather, virtually non-stop mountain route in the West, finding places to sleep is not easy, Ireland is practically one giant farm/pasture, you have to struggle to find a piece of flat land that isn’t fenced and doesn’t belong to someone. I had to learn to think ahead and use Google maps effectively. Every day around 4-5 pm planning begins, I need to buy water, something to eat and find a place for a tent. Shopping is usually easy, Ireland is not Africa, but taught by the unpleasant experiences from last year, I knew that I have to be careful, you can cycle almost all day through Connemara without seeing people, a petrol station or a shop, driving a car you may not feel it like that, but cycling is completely different, especially when it’s hot.

Cycling  30-40 km on a flat is not a problem, but in the mountains and in the heat on a heavily loaded bike, IT IS completely different, draining as fuck. And looking for a place for a tent, another tough task – this year I was much more confident, it was much easier for me, I practically got rid of the stress associated with it, and I knew that I would eventually find a spot. I always try to pitch a tent away from people, but in a remote place, it’s not always possible. But you can try it in an old cemetery or next to the ruins of a castle or church, there will always be a solution. I don’t really like paid campsites, too loud, too many people. Yea, sure, I can take a shower, charge power banks and wash socks or t-shirt, that’s the only reason why I go there. I also haven’t slept at a B&B or hostel this year, it’s just too expensive here in Ireland and my student budget is barely enough for my daily expenses.