Leoni Kolberg, Bikepacking Adventurer
Leoni has spent the last four years riding across Europe and Asia by bike, embracing a lifestyle that’s as minimal as it is daring. For her, cycling isn’t just a sport it’s a way to learn about herself, the world, and what she’s capable of when she steps outside her comfort zone.
“Living super minimal, being vulnerable, and understanding myself and the world.”
Her journey began in a way that challenged everything she knew. Travelling on just €7 a day, leaving Europe for the first time, and meeting countless strangers while navigating unknown places these first one-and-a-half years shaped her life.
“Getting thrown so far out of my comfort zone, being with myself, as well as with so many other people in a short but concentrated way… leaving Europe for the first time and being afraid for the first time, I taught myself to observe that fear.”
It was in these moments of uncertainty that Leoni discovered one of the most valuable lessons of her journey: confidence grows every time you step into the unknown.
Facing Challenges as a Female Adventureer
Life on the road brings challenges, many of which are common to all adventurers, but some are experienced differently by women. Leoni explains:
“Living super minimal, being vulnerable, and understanding myself and the world.”
“While cycling through Europe, I only wild camped or stayed with people who hosted me. I never stayed in hotels or hostels. That brought some of the biggest challenges because it often meant camping in uncomfortable places like in the center of Athens, industrial areas, or behind supermarkets. At times I felt quite unsafe. But in a strange way, that experiment also gave me a lot of confidence.”
Her experience highlights an important truth: fear and obstacles are part of adventure for anyone, but overcoming them builds resilience and self-reliance.
“Female or not, we all face fears when we step out into the world. And the more we face them, the more confident we become. That confidence is something I don’t want to lose, it’s actually one of the things that keeps me going.”
Leoni also discovered something beautiful along the way: people are willing to help if you’re open to asking.
“I learned that I’m never truly alone as long as I’m willing to ask for help.”
Why Female Participation is Still a Minority.
Leoni believes representation and societal messaging play a big role in why fewer women take on these kinds of adventures.
“We often hear that the world is dangerous, that we are not strong enough, or that we need a man by our side to protect us. Over time, these messages can subconsciously create the belief that we aren’t capable or that we wouldn’t even want a life like this because it seems like too big of an adventure.”
She also points to a lack of visible female role models in adventure.
“There are many famous male adventurers and countless stories about them, but far fewer stories about female adventurers. You really have to search to find them. Because of that, many girls grow up with fewer role models who make them dream about living a life of adventure. But this is slowly changing more and more women are stepping out, sharing their journeys, and showing what is possible. In a way, we are creating those stories and role models right now.”
Inspiring More Women to Ride
Leoni encourages women to support each other and take small steps toward adventure:
“Ask other girls to join you for a ride or weekend bikepacking trip. Create female packs that support and empower one another. Go wild camping, get dirty, shower in rivers. Together, we can feel stronger and more comfortable stepping into the unknown.”
And her ultimate message to anyone considering a new adventure or ultra ride is simple:
“Go and do it! What’s the worst that could go wrong?”
What’s Next
This August, Leoni will take on the Transibérica, riding from Belgium to Bilbao another exciting chapter in her European journey. Her story reminds us that adventure isn’t about perfection; it’s about curiosity, courage, and the willingness to step into the unknown
