Cycling through Europe

I've been thinking a lot about cycling across Europe and wild camping, but in order to do that I want to do a few test runs in the UK. Firstly I need to start with buying a tent! Secondly my bike definitely needs upgrading. Thirdly I need to finish working and just do it! 

I've been looking at tents online, mainly double layered one man storm proof tents, but they range from cheap to super expensive and the reviews are so varied I just don't know what to buy! I would like to set it up in the garden first and spend a few nights outside to get used to the noises, bugs and general outdoor living. I would definitely pee outside but I don't think my dad would appreciate me pooping outside! 

I also think I would have to buy new wheels that are more suited to long distance cycling as opposed to racing, which is what my bike was built for. In hindsight I should have been more informed about my choices, but it's easy to work around it. I definitely need mud guards and a new seat. Unfortunately it got slightly damaged on the train and it's also very uncomfortable. I will definitely be looking at a super soft gel padded seat because I get very numb genitals and it actually causes me quite a lot of pain for a few days afterwards, which is partly why I don't enjoy cycling. 

I also need to get new handlebar wrap, I will also invest in a thick gel padded wrap because since falling off my stationery bike I suffer from pins and needles, sore hands and pains in my left arm/wrist when I go long distance. I will purchase some better gloves too. I'd love to be able to get a custom design for the wrap, I like the idea of it being white with silver stars, maybe even miniature rainbows! Make it as happy looking as possible! 

I definitely need to invest in decent lights, pannier bags, sports bottles, a new bell and probably buy a heavy duty lock, extra brake pads, tubes and co2 canisters. 

I would like to cycle along the coast of Croatia, Italy, France and Spain before going to the Canary Islands. I just need to build up my confidence with camping solo in the wild! 

I have joined a bike forum but no one has shown an interest in my request for a wild camping buddy in the UK. I did go to a sports shop and inquire about tents and the worker suggested I just try out camping in proper sites first. I think that's a great idea so I may start taking myself off during the weekends and try it because the other thing I'm concerned about is food. What the heck will I eat to sustain myself cycling and camping? 

At the moment I'm on a crazy transition that's seen me go from fruit to fat, lots of salad, nuts and seeds, but then binging on bread to steaming vegetables and then back to fruit. I'm so confused but that's another post! It is definitely best to get my experience up with camping in the UK because at least I know I can just pop into a supermarket and grab some salad and fruit. 

I'm excited but also daunted. I used to say I hate camping and I do get rather OTT about insects and bugs, so this will be interesting. 

Have you ever been wild camping? Any tips will be greatly appreciated. 

Love Jennifer xx