An Exploration of Medieval Traveling Speeds: Foot, Horseback, Camel, Cart, Carriage, and Ship

In the medieval era, the speed and choice of transportation varied greatly depending on the mode of travel, terrain, and various other factors. Understanding these traveling speeds is crucial for historians, educators, and those interested in the vast medieval world. This article provides an in-depth look at the average speeds for different means of transportation, including walking, horseback, camel, ox cart, carriage, and ship.

1. On Foot

Walking was the most common form of transportation in medieval times, especially for those carrying important goods or individuals traveling on foot. The average speed for walking on foot was between 3 to 4 miles per hour, or approximately 4.8 to 6.4 kilometers per hour. Travelers could cover a daily distance of 15 to 30 miles, or 24 to 48 kilometers, depending on the terrain and their endurance.

2. On Horseback

Traveling on horseback was faster than walking and was a preferred mode of transportation for both the nobility and merchants. The average speed of a steady pace on horseback was 4 to 8 miles per hour, or about 6.4 to 12.9 kilometers per hour. However, trained riders could achieve a short burst of up to 15 miles per hour, or 24 kilometers per hour. On a good day, travelers on horseback could cover a daily distance of 30 to 50 miles, or 48 to 80 kilometers, especially in favorable terrain.

3. On Camel

Camels were used in regions where deserts and vast open lands were common. The average speed of a camel was between 3 to 5 miles per hour, or about 4.8 to 8 kilometers per hour. In good conditions, camels could typically travel a daily distance of 20 to 30 miles, or 32 to 48 kilometers, depending on the conditions and the load being carried.

4. With an Ox Cart

Ox carts were utilized for transporting heavier goods and goods requiring a slower, more steady pace. The average speed of an ox cart was between 2 to 4 miles per hour, or about 3.2 to 6.4 kilometers per hour. Due to the slower pace of oxen, a daily distance of 10 to 20 miles, or 16 to 32 kilometers, was typically covered.

5. With a Carriage

Carriages, especially light ones, were faster than ox carts, but the speed still depended on the road conditions and the type of carriage. The average speed of a light carriage was between 4 to 6 miles per hour, or about 6.4 to 9.7 kilometers per hour, while heavier carriages might be slightly slower. Carriages could cover a daily distance of 20 to 30 miles, or 32 to 48 kilometers, depending on the road conditions.

6. With a Ship on River

Ships were a crucial means of transportation on rivers, offering a relatively fast and efficient mode of travel. On average, a ship could travel between 3 to 6 miles per hour, or about 4.8 to 9.7 kilometers per hour, depending on the current and wind. Daily distances ranged from 30 to 50 miles, or 48 to 80 kilometers, on rivers.

7. With a Ship on the Ocean

Travelling by ship on the ocean was faster, with a range of 5 to 10 miles per hour, or about 8 to 16 kilometers per hour, depending on wind and sea conditions. Under good conditions, a ship could cover a daily distance of 100 to 200 miles, or 160 to 320 kilometers.

Factors Influencing Speeds

Several factors influenced the speed of travel, including:

Terrain: Mountainous or rough terrain slowed down the journey significantly. Weather: Rain, snow, or strong wind conditions affected both speed and safety. Load: Heavier loads reduced the speed, especially for ox carts and carriages. Health and Condition: The traveler's health and the condition of the animals played a crucial role.

It is important to note that these speeds are averages and can vary widely based on specific circumstances.

Actual Travel Times vs Combat Speeds

Travel in medieval times was generally quite slow. For instance, traversing vast distances such as France could take weeks. Even ships, including the cog and carrack, were not much faster than a person walking. The older drakkar of the Vikings was significantly faster, with speeds and daily distances not far behind a person on foot.

For further reading on medieval ships, you may refer to Longship - Wikipedia.