You know the
fun of a motorcycle ride. Even better is a multi-day or longer ride. Some of
you moto veterans have already done this. A question that often comes up from
riders is “what do I bring and how do I pack it on my motorcycle”? In my years
of experience I would like to offer my insight as someone whom has packed my
motorcycle for a lengthy journey.
One way to
start this process (as it will be a “process of elimination” in the end) is to
lay out everything you would like to have on this trip. Lay out a bedsheet on
the floor and place the items you wish to take on the sheet. If you absolutely
need a blow dryer for your hair every day, than lay it out. I have traveled
with a guy that this is a must as not every motel or hotel has one. Consider
buying a travel one as it is half the size.
Making a
check list is a good idea but I would start with writing out all your “ must
haves” on paper first. Suggestions of must haves include:
*medications*
clothing*toiletries*documents*finances/cash *repair/tools *first aid*navigation/maps*camping/cooking
*water/snacks*
sunglasses*cleaners* ball cap and all of the little things or niceties that you
need or want to accompany you for a more enjoyable trip.
Once you
have your wish list on paper and you have everything spread out, it’s time for
an honest assessment.
1. Do I need everything in my pile?
2. Can I pack it all on my motorcycle?
A rule of
thumb is whatever you have laid out, cut it in half and work from there. You
want to be thinking like a backpacker, if you could carry all your stuff on your
back in a pack, you can get it on a motorcycle.
Some
Suggestions include:
1. Choose clothing that is synthetic or
dry wicking. Under garments made of this material are key here for riding in
comfort all day. A wash in the sink or
stream at the end of the day and they are dry by morning. Yes, you can ride on
a week-long trip with 2 pairs of underwear. Look to active outdoor clothing for
wear off the bike. This type of clothing
does not retain malodorous smells and can also be washed in the evening and ready for the
next day of travel. (it would not be uncommon to see a piece of clothing drying
on my bike as I drove down the road)
2. If you are like me, you never miss an
opportunity to take the shampoo and soap when you stay in a hotel. Motorcycle
travel is a great place to utilize these small size toiletries; small is good
or purchase travel size while you are shopping.
A travel size toothpaste will last all week.
3. Roll all of your clothing. You can fit more in
your side cases when they are rolled. I take my socks rolled up and stuff them
in my footwear that I will be wearing off the bike. Any space that can be used
is filled.
This all takes practice and my first
attempts were shall we say “ugly” as I looked like someone fleeing their
homeland. You learn by doing and over time you will find the right combination.
Once you have a final list it is time for a dry test. Take time to thoughtfully
pack everything up. Anything related to moto repair, rain gear, extra gloves
and the like goes in one area. All items that will come with me at the end of
the day to my motel or tent are in one bag/case. This saves me from sorting every
day and lugging more than I need to. Once everything is secured on the motorcycle,
I go for a ride, stop for fuel and practice getting on and off the motorcycle
several times. I am checking for balance and ensuring that all cargo is secure.
This dry run is important as any adjustments are easier now than 10 miles down
the road with a schedule to keep. You will be amazed with just how little you
need to bring on a motorcycle trip and how and good it feels to not over pack.
I have just lightly touched on this subject there are pages and pages to share
however; my message is get out there and try it. Travel by motorcycle is one of
the most stimulating, fun things you can do. Going for days or weeks is even
better!
When you get home from your
adventure, make a list of the things you wished you had and a list of what you
didn’t use. Add or subtract them from your checklist.
