Cyclist chronicles dogpacking adventures around the world

Bikepacking is a popular trend that sees cyclists touring short and long distances kitting out their rides with packs for camping along the way. Now, one Canmore, Alberta cyclist is taking it to the next level by taking along his dog. Yes, we are ready for dogpacking. 

John Freeman, 51, is planning to travel throughout Central America and South America as part of a world tour with Mira, his trusted four-year-old Border Collie-Heeler mix, at his side. 

“I’ve taken months-long trips before, but this adventure is much larger and more encompassing than anything I’ve done,” says Freeman. “It’s 80 pounds of gear, plus Mira, and camping in all kinds of weather. It will take resilience, but it will be a life-changing experience, and I know Mira will keep me going. She loves the running and meeting new people. When she’s in her crate on the bike, she takes in the world like a dog with her head out a car window.” 

Freeman is planning on documenting and sharing his worldwide dogpacking trip dubbed “Omnitierra” on YouTube and Instagram to inspire others and gain a larger following as they travel by bike through all seven continents over the next six years. 

After they head back home from this leg of the trip, Freeman will plan the next leg of the journey to Antarctica — although this will be a solo trip due to travel restrictions. After that, they plan to head east to explore Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia. 

Freeman has already been sharing his adventures with Mira on his YouTube and Instagram channels and hopes to bring more good vibes to his followers through these new plans. Freeman and Mira currently ride approximately 100 kilometres a day. 

His most recent videos show two parts of Freeman’s and Mira’s travel adventures through the United States.

“People tell me it’s become a bright spot for them, especially during the pandemic,” Freeman says. “Some are feeling trapped by COVID, or are having a tough time at work, and to see Mira so happy, it gives them a breath of fresh air. I feel very lucky to be able to do this and share it with others.”

“You can’t buy more time in life. It’s a courtesy,” he continues. “I enjoy seeing the world and different cultures and different people, in these remote and beautiful places you can only access on a bicycle. I want to show viewers that it’s never too late to embark on your own journey, no matter how old you are. Maybe I’ll inspire them to explore somewhere new.“

Freeman has recently launched a website and introduced an optional subscription service for his followers on Patreon to help fund portions of the trip. 

John and Mira can be found on Instagram at @mira_la_perra, and on YouTube at @OmniTierra.