Begin with shorter bike rides well before your trip. Longer rides on weekends are great. Enjoyable and positive rides will help both children and parents get used to spending longer time together on the road.

To create a fun trip that the children will want to join, plan together with them and “sell” your idea to the kids.

If you haven’t done similar trips before, it might be a good idea to try a weekend with shorter stages instead of, for example, a full week with long stages. Plan the trip at a level that allows everyone to feel successful. There’s plenty to fill the days without spending the entire time in the saddle!

Bring enough water and nutritious food to fuel the rides. You can refill water at many points along the way. Access to water varies between stages, so sometimes you need to be cautious about drinking from small streams.

Magic stones with chocolate and candy can be very age-dependent—but they’re a great way to keep the momentum going.

Find out what the kids are looking forward to, and plan around that as the main motivation at the end of each stage. For example, meeting the horses at Hjerkinn or swimming in the pool at Toftemo...

Make sure you have the option to pull your child during stages if needed. Bring a bungee cord, rope, or similar equipment to connect the bikes.

Expect to take many breaks along the way—more than you might think. Take breaks before the kids get very tired, as it helps maintain their energy.

Much of the Tour de Dovre takes place in the high mountains. Even in summer, the weather can surprise you. Bring wool clothing, windproof layers, hats and gloves, and extra warm clothes for breaks. Good footwear is also important—try out your gear on shorter trips before the long journey.

Plan your trip well ahead—and include the kids in the planning! Check that you have all the necessary gear for both children and adults, or arrange to rent what you need. Plan your route, and book accommodation and activities well in advance.