Once you’ve decided to take your bike on a trip you’ve got to decide what it is that you need to bring along. In the past I’ve written about different types of luggage…hard vs soft bags…and where to find ideas for destinations and routes, but I’ve really never touched on what to bring. In this article I will do just that.
Let’s start with a basic premise that you’re attending one of our MSTA 3-4 long rallies, and that 2 of those days are going to be your travel to and from the rally. Leaving on a Thursday from home and returning on a Sunday. Furthermore, you are planning to ride to and from the rally, this won’t be a trip where you tow your bike. Ok, got it? So what to pack?
There are several excellent articles that you can find on the web that go over just this scenario and include some packing lists and tips. I’ll try to break these all down into the essentials and then add a couple of my own suggestions.
Madornomad
Motorcycletourer
RideToFood
Motorcyclenews
All of these lists can be used for anything from a single overnight trip to an around the world excursion of undetermined length and time. So let’s start with the basics:
Riding Gear
Helmet…I prefer a full face but will consider a modular unit in the future as they have vastly improved.
Gloves…I always carry a spare pair. Raid proof ones are usually way to hot to ride with in the summer and I like having a dry pair to change into if my 1st pair get soaked.
Riding jacket….I’ve moved into a jacket that is labeled as waterproof for most of my riding. But use Mesh Gear when the temperatures get above 85 degrees.
Riding pants…ditto on the pants.
A rain suit……if you’re jacket and pants are not waterproof, such as mesh gear, you really need to bring this along.
Socks….I usually pack several pairs of light socks. Long ones for wearing with riding boots.
Base layers…this can vary from moisture wicking long sleeved and full length to light athletic shorts and a thin t-shirt. It all depends on the weather and the temperatures I will be riding in.
Mid Layer…I usually pack one of these, even if I don’t wear it all the time. I use it for cool evenings and mornings, especially if I am heading to the mountains for riding. Remember, the higher altitudes usually mean cooler temperatures.
Off the Bike Gear
At the end of the day, I usually head straight to the shower and then change into some non-riding gear. Clean underwear, socks, shorts/pants, and a t-shirt usually fit the bill. I note here…Zip-Off pants! If you’re traveling in the summer, you really never know just how hot or cool it’s going to be. Even on the hottest days it can cool off really quick when a thunderstorm front comes through. Being able to zip your pants legs off and on in just a few seconds means you don’t have to pack both shorts and pants. A couple of pair made in the newer materials is all you need for up to a week at a time. Wear one, wash it in the sink, let it dry for a day and you’re ready to use it again. Alternate the 2 sets every other day. Lightweight, synthetic material t-shirts can be used the same way. Stay away from heavy jeans and cotton made shirts as they take up lots of room and dry slowly. You can get underwear and socks in the same kind of materials. I carry a pair of sandals or shower shoes to wear around when off the bike. Once again, they are lightweight and pack small. It’s all about saving space and weight, ask any backpacker and they can tell you all about it. In fact, don’t disregard shopping for gear like these in backpacking stores. They may be expense there, but they usually last a very long time. If nothing else. you can get odd ideas there.
Enough to get me through a long weekend of travel. I typically pack extra socks, underwear, and t-shirts if it is going to be hot and/or wet.
Other Stuff
Some stuff is an absolute must, and other things may be optional depending on your own needs and preferences. I never leave home without my phone and a charger. Also, my sperate GPS unit. I always pack and extra key and bring along a hat. Some of you will use your phone for routing and directions and others never wear a hat. But don’t forget that extra key! If you don’t need it, Ok. If you do need it, you better have it! My ignition key also opens and locks my side bags. Just think what would happen if that key got lost or broken. I’d be in a world of hurt if that happened and I didn’t have a spare with me. Many of these lists also mention things like a tire repair kit, tools, zip ties, and tape. I generally pack only a minimum of those things in favor of a credit card and a road service contract. I do carry a small multi-tool, a 10/12 MM wrench, and the tool kit that came with the bike. I also recommend you carry a microfiber towel and a couple of small ziplock bags. In fact, I often pack my toiletries and electronics in just those kinds of clear bags, as it makes packing and unpacking them very easy. I also like to bring along a bungee net. First off, I use it to pack my rainsuit and extra shoes on the backseat of my bike. That way, if I have to stop and put my rainsuit on by the side of the road, I can easily get to it without having to open my luggage cases.
Secondly, it saves space in those bags and gives me additional space to put things on the bike if I happen to get lucky and win a nice door prize at a rally or pick up some other treasure along the way on my journey. Another thing, if it is going to be hot, find some way to pack a bottle of water with you. Nothing worse than being broken down by the side of the road, in the middle of nowhere, on a hot summer day, and having nothing to drink. And one last thing, if you’re going to be traveling any distance at all, a map, or maps, of the area you are traveling in can be a real lifesaver. As much as I love my GPS and my phone, it’s still nice to have a backup if you lose power. Doesn’t take up much room either.
There you have it, I hope that you find these ideas useful for your journeys this year. Now start planning!