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Sara Hallbauer

Bikepacking Powered By Purpose

When the pandemic upended her sabbatical plans, Sara Hallbauer didn't sit still — she packed her bags and pedaled into the unknown. What began as a solo bikepacking trip across Germany, her home country during lockdown became the unexpected start of a new chapter. Since then, Sara has taken on some of Europe's most demanding ultra-cycling events, including the NorthCape 4000, the Italy Divide, and the legendary Transcontinental Race.

In this interview, she opens up about what she learned from thousands of kilometers on the saddle — about listening to your gut, building courage through action, and stripping life back to what matters. With honesty and clarity, Sara shares the mindset shifts, small routines, and personal mantras that have carried her through. Her story is a powerful reminder that the path to strength and freedom often begins with a simple decision: to go.

Liv: Do you remember your first bikepacking trip? What inspired you, and what did you learn?

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic thwarted my plans for a long-anticipated sabbatical after 25 years in senior marketing positions. I had hoped to ride the 4,300 km Great Divide Mountain Bike Route through the middle of the United States, but instead found myself grounded at home, still craving adventure.

That's when I discovered the Bikepacking Trans Germany Trail (BTG), weaving through remote gravel paths; it became my gateway into ultra-cycling. From there I raced events like the NorthCape 4000, the Transcontinental Race, the Italy Divide, and the Race Across France.

What I learned on that first tour was this: less is more. Less stuff, more freedom. Less noise, more awareness. Reducing life to its essentials made room for clarity, joy, and a deeper connection to nature. In a world of excess, simplicity is a radical act that felt liberating.

Liv: What advice would you give to someone hesitant to start?

Listen to your own voice — not the fears of others. If a route keeps calling to you, follow it. Don't over-consult or wait for permission. Often, people project their own doubts, not yours. Courage doesn't come from waiting — it grows through doing. My first tour on the BTG during lockdown wasn't easy, but I got stronger with every kilometer. Self-confidence is built on experience. Choose your mentors wisely. And remember: your dreams are your responsibility. When your longing becomes greater than your fear, that's when your adventure begins.

Liv:  How should someone start their first tour? Any recommended routes or events?

You don't need to set a world record to begin. Starting small — 60 to 100 kilometers a day, depending on your fitness, is perfect. Pick a destination that feels personal, like a visit to friends or family — it eases the pressure. Bikepacking is just cycling with a bit of luggage — anyone can do it. If you're nervous about terrain, a riding skills course can help, especially for descents.

Avoid diving straight into high-alpine routes or mountain crossings — those vertical meters can be tougher than expected. I highly recommend beginner-friendly bikepacking events like the Tuscany Trail, Salt & Lake Trail, or Taunus Bikepacking. These focus on nature, community, and fun rather than competition. You'll learn a lot, meet great people, and rarely feel alone — even if you start solo.

Liv: How do you stay safe when touring solo — especially as a woman?

Safety is a key part of my planning, but I don't let it overshadow the joy of being out there. During races, if I sleep outdoors, I choose hidden, remote spots and turn off my GPS tracker at night to protect my location. I also keep pepper spray within reach. When possible, I opt for accommodation — I rest better and feel more secure. I'm friendly but firm with strangers, set clear boundaries early, and don't explain or justify them. I don't see myself as a "woman traveling alone" but as a self-determined cyclist — and that mindset changes interactions.

I also have a few routines: I share my route with trusted contacts, listen to my intuition, and prioritize visibility with safety gear when it gets dark. I don't ignore fear — I plan with it. That gives me both confidence and freedom.

Liv:  What do you always pack — and what have you learned to leave behind?

Over time, I've learned to pack light. Two bibs and a jersey usually suffice, I just wash them in the evening. But I never skip quality rain gear. Staying dry keeps you moving. Wet wipes are a lifesaver — for you and your bike. My must-have item? A spork! It turns grocery store finds into proper meals. A power bank is essential, too; your phone, GPS, and bike computer won't always find outlets.

What do I leave behind? Too much food. I buy it on the go and enjoy the surprise of foreign snacks. My tip: pack like you're carrying everything on your back. You'll only bring what truly matters.

Liv: Do you need technical skills to start? What repairs should you know?

You don't need to be a pro mechanic — just learn the basics. You should know how to change a tube, fix a chain with a quick link, and patch a jacket or sleeping gear. I always bring cable ties and a spare derailleur hanger — tiny items that can be lifesavers. Most other issues can be solved with patience, help from fellow riders, or a bit of creativity. My advice: practice a few key repairs at home in a calm setting. That confidence will carry you through surprises on the road.

Liv: You are campaigning for more visibility for women in cycling, how can we get more women on bikes?

We need more women out there visibly doing it, sharing their real experiences: the highs, the lows, the grit, and joy. Visibility breeds courage. We also need to rethink the culture. Too many cycling spaces are male-dominated and performance-driven, which can be intimidating. We need more welcoming, community-focused formats where questions are encouraged, and fun is the goal. And most importantly, we must stop telling women they need to be fit enough, brave enough, or technical enough to begin. No one says that to men. The change starts in our heads — and we can lead it by supporting each other and simply getting started.

Liv: What motivated you to share your story and encourage women in your community to cycle?

I know how it feels to set out with a head full of questions, doubts, and fears. I also know the empowerment when you realize you can do this. That's why I share my story — because bikepacking isn't an exclusive club. You don't have to be especially fit or fearless. You just have to begin. Sometimes, all it takes is someone saying, "You've got this." Every woman who dares to go on a journey dares a little more in life. I ride to show that women can be bold adventurers. I travel to connect — with people, places, and stories. If my words or images help inspire that spark in someone else, then it's all worth it.

I connect through my blog, social media, and real conversations at events or on the trail. And I stay authentic — I don't only share the wins but also the doubts, the setbacks, and the detours. That's where true connection happens. And that's where courage grows.

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