What should I pack for a motorcycle trip?
Having a basic strategy for traveling with your belongings will make your motorcycle trip much more enjoyable, and will minimize the possibility that you find yourself in need of a particular item. Below are some tips for what to take on the bike with you, and what to leave in your bag that will travel in the support truck.
On the motorcycle, in a small dry bag or in the panniers, you want to take anything you might need during the day and upon arrival at our nightly destination. The goal is to have the support truck stay with us at all times. However, breakdowns happen both for motorcycles and the truck that may cause delays. Carry with you the layers needed for changing conditions, such as extra gloves, a sweater or a rain suit. Take water, snacks, important documents and any critical medications with you as well. Also consider carrying a comfortable pair of shoes, your toiletries, a change of clothes, a camera and of course a bathing suit in case you are in a climate where a pool seems like a good end to your riding day. When the truck arrives, you can get your larger bag.
Documents
- Passport
- Photocopy of passport stored in different location
- Driver’s license
- Photocopy of driver’s license stored in different location
Riding Gear
- Full-face helmet with pinlock or fog resistant shieldÂ
- Multiple pairs of riding gloves with finger squeegee
- MidÂweight gloves
- HeavyÂweight gloves
- Waterproof overgloves
- Riding jacket with armor (we recommend the Klim Artemis or Klim Badlands Pro jackets)
- Riding pants with armor (we recommend Klim’s Artemis or Badlands Pro pants)
- Pullover rain suit, pants and jacket
- Tall waterproof riding boots that are also comfortable for walking
- Thick wool socks for riding cold climates
- Bandana
- Waterproof socks – Sealskinz
- Neck buff or gaiter
- Sunglasses, case and cleaner
- Ear plugsÂ
- Ziploc slide top bags – gallon & quart
- Waterproof riding boots
Other Clothes
- Pants layers
- Torso layers
- Smart-wool or cold-weather leggings
- Quick-dry pants
- Smart-wool or cold-weather base layer
- Quick-dry shirts
- Fleece or thermal vest/jacket
- Warm, comfortable clothes for after riding
- Warm hat, stocking cap for after riding
- Comfortable shoes for after riding
- Enough clothes, socks and underwear for the length of your trip
Other Items
- Waterproof duffel bag to carry your clothes and nonÂessentials on the truck
- Small daypack for walking around town
- Camera + batteries and memory cards
- Medicines
- Toiletries
- Pain reliever, allergy, antacid, etc.
- Prescriptions
- Soap, shampoo, conditioner (not all lodging provides these)
- Toilet paper and moist wipes
- Nail clippers, razors, other grooming
- Headlamp for around camp
- Sunblock for skin and lips
- Cash, spread out among luggage to prevent loss
- Credit card, tucked away somewhere safe
Remember, the support truck carrying your luggage might not always arrive at the destination when you do. Have the items with you on the bike that you might need at that time.