We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment - Hilaire Belloc
Ride, Relax, Reflect
From shared journeys with loved ones to the personal love story with the road, find joy in every moment on two wheels
Cruise, Calm, Connect
Embrace the rhythm of the road, share the journey with friends, and let every twist and turn elevate your spirit
Conquer, Cruise, Cherish
The road winding like an inviting challenge, experience the thrill of motorcycle sport touring and the joy of the journey in every moment
Meditate, Move, Mingle
Find your balance, where every ride deepens connections and amplifies the shared joy between souls
7 Best Packing Tips You'll Ever Need for Motorcycle Touring
What's the secret to an unforgettable motorcycle tour, you ask? No, it's not just the rugged charm you naturally exude when you're in leathers. It's actually all about the 7P's: Proper Prior Preparation Prevents Piss-Poor Performance. And nowhere is this more apparent than when it comes to packing for your trip.
That's right, those saddlebags aren't going to fill themselves, and contrary to popular belief, tossing in a spare pair of socks and a packet of crisps just won't cut it. But fear not! We've compiled the 7 best packing tips you'll ever need for a motorcycle tour. Whether you're a Sunday rider or a seasoned road warrior, these tips will ensure that you're prepared for whatever the tarmac throws your way—or you throw at the tarmac, depending on how you roll.
So pull up a chair, pour yourself a cuppa, and get ready to become a packing maestro for your next two-wheeled adventure.
1. Pack for the Unknown: The Universal Essentials
Why It's Important
Motorcycle touring is the epitome of unpredictability. One moment you're cruising in the sunshine, and the next, you're dodging raindrops the size of golf balls. Being prepared for all kinds of situations is a must.
What to Pack
All-Weather Gear: Invest in high-quality rain gear that can be quickly pulled over your riding clothes.
First-Aid Kit: Your kit should include the basics like band-aids, antiseptics, and pain relievers, but also consider adding items like sunburn relief spray and insect repellent.
Basic Tools: Think Allen keys, wrenches. You don't have to rebuild the engine, but being able to fix a loose mirror can be a lifesaver.
Water: At least a couple of litres, or a hydration system that you can sip from while riding. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, and fatigue leads to mistakes.
Pro Tip
Store these essentials in an easy-to-reach place. You'll thank yourself later when you don't have to unpack half your bike to find the first-aid kit.
2. Divide and Conquer: Compartmentalise Your Gear
Why It's Important
Searching for a tool or snack in an undivided saddlebag can be like playing a game of "Where's Wally?" - stressful and time-consuming. Segregating your gear not only saves you time but also keeps you organised.
What to Do
Use Smaller Bags: For smaller items like tools, toiletries, and food, consider using smaller bags within your luggage.
Compression Bags: Ideal for clothes and soft items, compression bags can help you save valuable space, leaving more room for other essentials.
Label If Needed: If you're going for peak organisation, slap a label on those bags.
Pro Tip
Combine colour-coded or transparent bags with compression bags for the ultimate in efficient packing. For instance, you could use a red compression bag for your clothing, making it easy to identify and compact at the same time.
3. Balance is Everything: Weight Distribution 101
Why It's Important
An unevenly packed bike can be tough to handle, particularly on windy roads or at higher speeds. Proper weight distribution is essential for a stable and enjoyable ride.
What to Do
Heaviest Items First: Place heavier items at the bottom and towards the centre of your bike.
Check Balance: After packing, give your bike a gentle swing from side to side. It should feel evenly balanced.
Label If Needed: If you're going for peak organisation, slap a label on those bags.
Pro Tip
Do a quick ride around the block after you've packed but before you set out on your journey. This will give you a chance to adjust your gear as needed without the inconvenience of doing it miles into your trip.
4. Keep it Light: Less is Often More
Why It's Important
Overpacking is a rookie mistake we've all made. The extra weight can make handling the bike difficult, and it takes up space that might be used for something actually useful (or for souvenirs)
What to Do
Essential Items Only: If you haven't used it in the last two trips, chances are you won't need it this time either. Be ruthless in your selection.
Multi-Purpose Gear: Items like a Swiss Army knife or a phone with a good camera can serve multiple purposes, saving you both weight and space.
Pro Tip
Create a packing checklist a week before you leave and review it every couple of days. You'll often find items you can remove as you reconsider your needs.
5. The Rule of Threes: Clothing Strategy
Why It's Important
Clothing can take up a disproportionate amount of luggage space. But unless you're attending a fashion week, you likely don't need a different outfit for each day on the road.
What to Pack
The Basics: A set to wear, a set as a backup, and a set for cold or wet conditions should cover you for most situations.
Layer Up: Instead of bulky clothes, pack layers that can be added or removed as the temperature changes.
Pro Tip
Consider quick-dry fabrics that can be washed and dried overnight. This allows you to carry less and makes it easier to take advantage of laundry facilities along the way.
6. Accessibility is Key: Frequent-Use Items on Top
Why It's Important
Taking a break from the road shouldn't mean wrestling with your gear to find what you need. The goal is to get you back on the open road, feeling fresh as a daisy, as quickly as possible.
What to Do
Wallet: Keep your wallet in an easily accessible spot for petrol stops or the occasional roadside purchase.
Visor Cleaner: Road grime can accumulate quickly, affecting visibility. Having your visor cleaner handy is a must.
Fresh Earplugs: To prevent ear infections, it's a good idea to replace your earplugs frequently. Keep a fresh pair easily accessible.
Snack: You never know when you'll need a little pick-me-up. Energy bars or nuts are easy to pack and quick to eat.
Water Bottle: Keep this essential item handy for your hydration breaks when you pull over.
Pro Tip
Tank bags or custom compartments are a solid choice for segregating your kit. Items you'll use frequently should be the easiest to get to.
7. Just in Case: The 'Emergency Fun' Kit
Why It's Important
Life is short and the tour is long. You never know when an opportunity for a spontaneous adventure might present itself. Be prepared to seize the day (or night)!
What to Pack
Kindle or E-Reader: For those wind-down moments after a long day's ride, sitting down to relax and get lost in a good book can be pure bliss.
Travel-Size Board Game: Never underestimate the bonding power of a classic board game with new friends.
A Flask: Sometimes, a bit of your favourite spirit can add a dash of magic to a spontaneous evening under the stars.
Notebook and Pen: Capture your thoughts, jot down the details of a hidden gem you've discovered, or doodle to your heart's content. Who knows, it might be the start of your travel blog!
Pro Tip
Keep this kit somewhere accessible yet separate from your essentials. That way, when the perfect moment strikes, you won't have to rummage through your gear.
There you have it, the seven golden rules of packing for your motorcycle tour. These aren't just tips; consider them your road map to a smoother, more enjoyable ride. From preparing for life's unexpected turns to making sure you're ready for spontaneous fun, the right packing strategy can make all the difference.
So the next time you're preparing to hit the road, just remember the simple mantra: proper prior preparation prevents piss-poor performance. Or, as we like to say in this guide, pack smart to tour smarter.
Here's to many miles of joyful touring, new friendships, and unforgettable adventures.
Safe travels, and may your packing be as flawless as your journey!
Thinking about saving a few quid on a cheaper helmet? Remember, if you've got a £10 head, get a £10 helmet. Invest in quality. Your brain will thank you!
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Fun Facts
Did you know the world's longest motorcycle was over 26 meters long. It was presented and measured at Lakhota lake, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India, on 22 January 2014. The bike was more than 4 m (13 ft) longer than the previous record holder's.
To ensure that his super-stretched motorcycle would be able to perform like a conventional motorbike, the constructor rode it along a road for 100 m (328 ft) without putting his feet down.
Tip of the week:
Never grab the front brake; squeeze it!
Grabbing the front brake abruptly can cause the front wheel to lock, as it doesn't allow time for the bike's weight to shift forward.This significantly reduces the front tyre's grip on the road and may result in loss of control, posing a serious risk of an accident.
Did you know?
The aerodynamic drag on a motorcycle can increase by up to 40% just by the rider sitting upright instead of in a tucked position. It's a wind-resistance thing—like trying to walk through a pool vs. gliding through it!
Photo of the week
Reading List:
Twist of the Wrist II by Keith Code
Why it's ace: This book is essentially the Bible of motorcycle cornering. Want to tackle bends like a pro? Get this in your noggin.
Motorcycle Maintenance TechBook - Haynes Manual
Why it's ace: This is like the Swiss Army knife of motorcycle books. It covers everything you need to know about servicing and minor repairs.
Ready to elevate your skills from basic riding to mastering the road? This guide aims to do just that by uncovering crucial riding techniques that will boost your confidence, safety and enjoyment on the tarmac. But we're not stopping at mere tips and tricks; we're going the extra mile.
Ever geared up for a motorcycle tour and found yourself puzzled about where to put all those essentials? Welcome to the life of a touring enthusiast. But fear not, because the gods of motorcycling foresaw this dilemma: Enter motorcycle luggage. Not just any old bag, but the kind tailored for those who believe a week-long journey with just a toothbrush and a dream is, well, unrealistic. Join us as we unpack the art and science of equipping your ride with the perfect storage. Because let's be honest, your majestic steed deserves more than bungee cords and prayers to hold onto your worldly (touring) possessions!
When it comes to hitting the open road, there's one piece of gear that's non-negotiable: your helmet. Think of it as your noggin's knight in shining armour—quite literally. This Must Read Helmet Guide is your golden ticket to understanding what makes a helmet tick, why it's your best mate on the tarmac, and how to pick the one that fits you like a glove. After all, what's between your ears is priceless, so let's make sure it's well-protected.
