Long bike trips are a great way to enjoy nature and stay fit. Of course, there can also be some challenges like dealing with nasty weather and other unpleasant facts of life. That's why versatile and inexpensive tarps can be a cyclist's best friend.

How many ways can you use a tarp when you're on the road? Here are a few of our favorite ideas:

Protect your valuables.A tarp can be one more safety feature to reduce the risk of theft. If you're taking part of your trip by van or truck with your bike stowed in back, keep it covered with a tarp when you park. Covering up your valuables makes them less vulnerable.

Collect water.Want to collect rain water to wash your clothes or cook a meal? A tarp makes it fast and easy to get a good supply.

Bask in the shade.When the sun is strong and there are no trees in sight, you'll always have a shady spot. You'll feel cooler and protect your skin from premature aging and cancer.

Layer up.It's always better to travel light, but that can make it difficult to have enough clothes if the weather turns cooler. A tarp can serve as a blanket or top layer to keep you a little cozier.

Take shelter.Want to sleep outdoors? A tarp can be your basic camping gear or use it along with your tent.

When you think about it, tarps are pretty special because there aren't many accessories that can deliver so many benefits at so little cost. If you want to bring one along for your next bike trip,contact us. CanopiesAndTarps.comp offers a vast selection of canvas and vinyl tarps along with the lowest possible prices and fast shipping.