You’ve finally done it. You’ve cleared your schedule, gotten time off, checked up on your bike, and plotted your course. Now there’s nothing standing between you and the open road.
But wait — what should you bring with you?
With a motorcycle, even with roomy saddlebags, it can be tricky to pack everything you need and want to bring. That’s why we’re providing a list of the absolute musts for any one to two weeklong tour.
Hopefully we can save you some over-packing — and remind you of stuff you absolutely need to bring with you.
Your information.
Deep in a plastic bag, hidden beneath everything else, should be your wallet with your driver’s license, as well as your registration and insurance information. If you get pulled over, you definitely don’t want to be caught without it. Consider hiding some extra emergency cash there was well. Not much, but a $20 never hurts.
Rain gear.
If the weather turns sour on you, you don’t want to waste precious time waiting underneath an overpass with your hazards on. Pack a sturdy rain suit, a helmet visor if your helmet isn’t full-face, and Rain-X so you can keep on riding.
Cold weather gear.
Similarly, if you decide you want to keep riding long after the sun sets, you don’t have to be uncomfortable. Stash an extra hoodie, padded gloves, and a pair of warm socks in there, too. That way, you can fight off the night chill if you’re so inclined.
Changes of clothes.
Even if you’re going to ride for two weeks, most experienced riders don’t recommend packing more than one week’s worth of outfits. They can weigh your bike down, and most of the time, you won’t want to change clothes that frequently. On the flip-side, a few extra t-shirts never hurt, and are easy to roll up.
Snacks.
You can save money and a couple waistline inches if you don’t pull off every time you want to eat. A few granola bars, some 5-hour energy shots, or other easy-to-eat snacks can save the day when you get hungry.
Backup.
You never know what you’re going to encounter on the open road. Be sure to bring a first-aid kit, a small tool kit for minor repairs on your bike, plenty of cash, and duct tape so you’re suited for what life throws at you.
The Bottom Line
Packing for a tour doesn’t have to be difficult, but it can be tricky to balance the necessities out with your bike’s weight limit. Just remember — you’d rather have something you don’t need, than need something you don’t have.
TRC is your one-stop shop for all things bikes. Breathe new life into your custom bike, shop the latest accessories, and more! Contact us today.