Let’s be honest, packing may very well be the least fun part of any trip. It seems that no matter how meticulously we pack before a trip, we’re always likely to forget something essential.
For the packing wizards out there, this may not be a problem. For the rest of us, however, it means that we need to pay close attention to what we bring with us, especially if we’re traveling on a motorcycle with minimal space for luggage.
Unfortunately, figuring out what to bring can be tricky, especially since each trip is unique and will no doubt require a degree of customization when it comes to packing. However, there are some essentials that you should always bring with you regardless of where, when, or how long your trip will be.
In this article, I’ve narrowed down what you should bring with you on your next motorcycle trip, as well as some helpful tips to consider in order to have an unforgettable biking journey.
Factors to Consider Before Your Trip
Before we get to our list, there are some factors you should first consider before deciding on what exactly to bring on your trip.
1. Length of the Trip
The first factor you need to consider is how long you’re going to be on the road since your trip’s length will determine what you need to bring with you. After all, what you pack for a ride that will only last a few days will obviously differ from what you will need on a long-distance trip that may take a month or more on the road.
2. Location and Weather
Any seasoned biker out there knows that there’s always going to be a degree of unpredictability when it comes to the weather or road conditions. However, while you can never be 100% sure of what you may face on your trip, you should still consider the terrain you’ll be riding on as well as the usual weather conditions.
For example, riding on a highway with amenities aplenty will be very different from going on a camping trip via rugged mountainous terrain. The weather also plays a huge role. The clothes and riding gear you pack will vary depending on whether you have to face the searing heat of the summer or the gusty winds and pouring rain of winter.
3. Number of Passengers
If you’re traveling solo on your motorcycle, you’re obviously going to have a little more room than if you’re traveling with a second passenger. In case you’re traveling with a passenger, It’s best to discuss what each of you is bringing beforehand to avoid overpacking.
Going on a trip with other bikers, however, can actually end up saving a lot of space. For example, only one person has to carry the first aid and tool kits, which can free up additional luggage space for others.
What to Pack for a Motorcycle Trip
What makes the cut for your next trip will depend on many variables, but I’ve listed some items that I believe are crucial to pack no matter where you’re headed.
1. Riding Gear
Bringing the right riding gear with you is paramount for the simple reason that you’ll be wearing it most of the day. This is why you need to make sure it’s not only well-fitting and comfortable to wear, but that it will also provide you with sufficient protection.
Helmet
While it’s essential to choose a comfortable and well-fitting riding suit, it’s equally important to bring a helmet that you wouldn’t mind wearing for the entire trip. Make sure to bring the most comfortable helmet you own.
Gloves
Whether they’re summer gloves or waterproof winter ones, they help control your body’s temperature and prevent your hands from chaffing. If you’re unsure about the weather conditions, or if you’re headed somewhere known for unpredictable weather, bring a pair of each.
Riding Jacket
I don’t know about you, but I’m personally not a big fan of being drenched in water whenever it rains. This is why I prefer breathable, waterproof textile clothing when it comes to my riding gear.
If you’re willing to spend some extra bucks, you can also find jackets with ventilation zips to help you cool off when it’s hot. Protective motorcycle jackets can also be made of leather or high tensile nylons, so you can pick whatever feels most comfortable to you.
Riding Pants
Like jackets, they come in various materials and can be windproof, waterproof, or both. Pants designed specifically for riding provide you with a better grip on your seat, and they usually cover your boots to provide the best protection down your legs.
Rain Suit
Unless all your riding gear is waterproof, investing in a lightweight rain suit is crucial. You can never truly predict the weather, even in the summer, and a rain suit can save you in an emergency without taking up too much space.
Motorcycle Boots
Good boots should provide ankle protection and should also preferably be waterproof. If you don’t own a pair of waterproof motorcycle boots, at least make sure to bring waterproof socks.
Sunglasses
Unless you have a separate dark visor or a helmet that includes one, it’s important to wear sunglasses while riding during the daytime. They will improve vision in some lights and stop you from squinting.
2. Casual Clothing
You don’t need to overpack. If you’re on a bike, no one will notice or care if you’ve been wearing the same t-shirt for a few days. Even on longer trips, I suggest bringing 2-3 of each item of clothing, including t-shirts, pants, shorts, undergarments, and even socks.
You can clean your clothes at a local laundromat, or use the laundry service at the motel or B&B you’re staying at. You can also wash your clothes yourself if you’re going to a more remote destination with no washing facilities. Just try to avoid cotton clothes because they tend to take much longer to dry.
3. Electronics
Cell Phone
It’s hard to imagine anyone traveling without their cell phone nowadays, but for those who intend to go on a motorcycle trip, a cell phone is incredibly important. Not only can you use it as a camera to capture photos of scenic routes you’ll ride on, but it’ll also be your link to the rest of the world should anything go wrong.
More essentially, however, your phone can double as a navigation system. When you’re out on a ride, you’re going to need an easy-to-use navigation app to help you find your way around. I suggest downloading navigation apps on your phone, such as Google Offline Maps, OSM Offline Maps, and REVER.
Battery Charger
The last thing you need on your trip is to be stranded somewhere with a dead battery. Thankfully, there are many ways to prevent this from happening. For example, you can buy a USB charger to plug into your bike’s 12-volt power socket. I also suggest bringing a power bank or even a spare battery to ensure you’ll always have a backup plan
Bluetooth Headset
You can easily add a Bluetooth headset to your helmet. Not only does it help you answer phone calls easily while riding, but it can also supply navigation instructions from your GPS right into your helmet.
Adding a Bluetooth headset to your helmet is also a great idea if you’re traveling with other riders, as it allows you to speak to them as long as they have the same Bluetooth communication system. You won’t have to worry about your buddies understanding your hand-signals whenever you need to communicate with them on the road!
4. Travel Documents
IDs or Passports
Make sure to carry all your documents that can be of use, including your ID or your passport if you’re riding out of the country. And don’t forget to also bring your motorcycle license and your travel insurance!
Maps
I know what you’re thinking. “Does anyone still use paper maps in the 21st century?” But batteries may fail, and GPS can be spotty and unreliable, especially if you plan to visit places off the beaten track. That’s why you need to bring some good old paper maps.
They’re a cheap and a trusty alternative to GPS navigation, and you can even find maps designed specifically for motorcyclists to include the best routes as well as where to stop along the way.
5. First Aid Kit
Your first aid kit should include the usual plasters, bandages and antiseptic lotions. It should also contain medication for any issues you may face on the road, including muscle pain, nausea, and any minor injuries you may incur as well as any prescription medications you require.
6. Tool Kit
If you’re a regular rider, you probably already own some tools stored on your bike at all times. Bringing this tool kit with you when you’re out on the road is crucial. Tools such as screwdrivers, needle-nose pliers, spanners, wrenches, Allen keys, a tire repair kit, and a jump starter can come in handy in case of an emergency unless you’re a fan of sitting on the side of the road waiting for a helpful stranger.
7. Money
It sounds obvious, but make sure to have enough cash on you because some places don’t accept credit cards. Chances are, you’re going to be riding in some remote areas, and cash can be the only way to buy snacks or even gas. Also, if you’re traveling out of the country, make sure to look for an ATM as soon as you arrive in order to get some local currency.
How to Pack for Your Trip
Now that you know what you should pack, let’s take a look at some tips for packing and loading your luggage onto your motorcycle.
Stick to the Essentials
I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating. You should only bring the bare essentials, especially if you’re riding for a long distance. Believe me, a motorcycle loaded to the gunwales with luggage isn’t easy or fun to ride.
Multiple-Use Items are Your Friend
Anything that can be used for more than one purpose is great for a road trip. For example, in addition to storage, a waterproof bag can also be used as a laundry bag, a raincoat, or even as a beer cooler while camping. This allows you to make the most out of what little you pack.
Maximize Space
Getting your clothes into the luggage may seem straightforward. However, there are some general tips you can pay attention to in order to maximize space.
For example, you should roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and helps reduce wrinkles, so basically, it’s a win-win situation. Moreover, you can stuff smaller items into your shoes, which are a goldmine of additional space that would otherwise go unutilized.
Spread the Load
When it comes to securing your luggage to your bike, you should keep the weight on your motorcycle as centrally-located and even as possible. If you plan to stack bags on the pillion, always keep heavy luggage at the bottom to ensure that your luggage will minimally affect your road performance.
Weight distribution goes beyond maximizing performance, however. If you keep it at the top, it can be outright dangerous as it may cause your vehicle to tip or shift in the wind.
If you’re using a rucksack, you should stick to packing lightweight items that won’t injure you in case of a crash. I recommend bringing a rucksack that you’ve tried before to make sure it’s comfortable with good weight distribution.
Final Thoughts
While there can never be a definitive packing list, I’ve rounded up some essentials that I believe you should always bring on any trip.
With extremely limited space for luggage on a motorcycle, the golden rule is always “less is more,” especially if you’re riding for a long distance. Packing smart will save you the headache later on and help you focus on what really matters: enjoying your motorcycle trip to the max!