Cycling in Poland

I spent some time in Poland and first off, I have to say that your plan is certainly feasible. In terms of general safety, I would say just keep your wits about you. Polish people are for the most part extremely friendly, though in my time there, I was assaulted twice on the street by random people completely out of the blue. Just make sure you have a good lock for your bike.

When it comes to the road network, things have improved though the quality is still horrendous at times. I remember some rural roads looking like a cluster bomb had hit them. However, once again, this can be overcome with a good bike. I have to admit that I don't know about camping rules in Poland but youth hostels should be quite cheap, especially in the countryside. Also when it comes to food, Poland has the lowest prices anywhere in the EU.

Bringing your own bike? I can't really help you out there. I can only say that a good friend took his own bike to Ukraine (which has worse roads than Poland) and he enjoyed a fantastic two-week cycling trip without any real problems.

1) My safety from mugging or theft 2) Road conditions (specifically in rural areas with narrower roads) 3) Rules and regulations on camping, do not want to spend big money on hotels, but of course that means a heavier load to carry. 4) I would like to bring my own bicycle or is it better to buy/rent one there?

My son's experience riding from Warsaw to Berlin 3 years ago was very good. The countryside is beautiful.

1. This can happen anywhere, like the first poster said, keep your wits about you.
2. Yes roads may be more narrow there, my son related there was more respect given to bicycle riders.
3. He spent his nights on road trip in hostels. Just carried a backpack with basic needs.
4. He bought a used bike there. Mid 90's steel Basso with full Campy and decent wheels. $400 and he brought the bike home with him. Lot's of used bikes in shops there.

It gets very cold in Poland...