How to get the most gifts with the Tour de France caravan?

Even before the riders pass by, there's a party within the party: the famous Tour de France advertising caravan. A truly colorful parade, where brands compete in imagination to thrill the crowd and distribute thousands of goodies. From the legendary Cochonou bobsled to Haribo candy bags, caps, keychains, and samples, the caravan delights young and old alike and is an integral part of the Tour experience.

But to leave with your arms full of gifts, it's best to know a few tricks! In this article, we'll reveal all the best advice for optimizing your spot, attracting the attention of distributors, and maximizing your goodie collection. The goal: not to go home empty-handed!

Don't miss the time when the advertising caravan passes by

The publicity caravan opens the party well before the riders, usually between 1 and 1.5 hours before the peloton. It sets the mood with its music, dancers, and especially its famous goodies flying everywhere. Needless to say, it's an event not to be missed!

⏰ But be careful: to be sure to enjoy the show and get a good spot, it's best to arrive early, especially in popular areas like legendary passes, stage finishes, or lively villages. Not only can the crowds be dense, but some roads are closed several hours before the caravan passes, depending on the security measures in place.

👉 Smart tip: Check the map and official stage times on the Tour de France website or at your local tourist office, and always allow a little extra time to anticipate traffic and road closures. Better to wait a little... than miss everything!

Choose the right spot to see the caravan

✅ Do not go to see the caravan when it is stopped Before the start of the stage, the vehicles are parked and the animators are getting ready. The distribution of goodies only begins when the caravan is moving.

🚫 Avoid certain areas: Downhills: too dangerous to distribute. Tight turns: vehicles must focus on the trajectory and slow down less.

🎯 Prioritize good locations City entrances: speed is reduced and the road is wider. False flats or slight inclines: vehicles travel more slowly, which leaves more time for distribution.

🤔 And the special zones? Intermediate sprint, polka dot jersey pass... yes, but know that the majority of gifts will come from the official sponsor of this zone (like Leclerc for the polka dot jersey), and much less from other brands.

Stand out to be seen by caravans

Handing out goodies during the caravan's passage depends not only on luck, but also on your ability to attract the attention of the onboard entertainers. In a crowd, those who stand out are always more likely to leave with their hands full. Here are some tips to get noticed!

Shout louder than others

Don't be shy! Entertainers love spectators who liven things up and show their enthusiasm. A big smile, raised arms, and a loud cheer can be all it takes to get their attention—and... their gifts. You're there to party, so don't be afraid to get your voice up!

Dress up

Costumes are a sure bet for getting noticed. A vintage jersey, a funny costume, or even an original accessory in the colors of a caravan brand will easily attract attention. Some entertainers don't hesitate to favor the most creative spectators, who really play the party game.

Make a sign and set challenges

A beautiful sign with a funny or original message never goes unnoticed. You can even include a little nod to a brand or a small challenge to complete with a small basketball hoop or target. These initiatives amuse the hosts, who enjoy this type of interaction with the public and often reward the most inventive.

Here's a short Tik Tok video of a spectator with her sign and her collection of goodies: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdfcaPGN/

In short, to stock up on gifts when the Tour de France caravan passes by, it's all a question of strategy and visibility: choose the right location, be dynamic, smile... and get noticed! But above all, stay careful: stick to the side of the road, never cross the road, keep an eye on your children, and be aware that vehicles are still circulating after the caravan. Safety before goodies, always!