Safety should always come first when planning a motorcycle tour. Your gear is your first line of defence against the elements and potential hazards on the road. Here’s what to include in your motorcycle road trip packing list:
Helmet: A high-quality helmet is non-negotiable. Ensure it’s properly fitted and meets safety standards. Motorcycle Boots: Durable, protective boots are a must. They provide support and protection for your feet and ankles. Riding Pants and Jacket: Invest in protective riding pants and a jacket with weatherproofing and impact protection. Look for a jacket with an additional layer of warmth if you’re expecting cold conditions. Pair of Gloves: Keep your hands protected and warm with a solid pair of gloves. Waterproof gloves are ideal if rain is a possibility.
Clothing for All Weather Conditions
You’ll want to pack light, but you also need to be prepared for varying weather conditions. When creating your motorcycle travel checklist, make sure to pack layers:
Extra Pair of Pants: Opt for durable, quick-drying pants. Pair of Shorts: For warmer days, a pair of shorts will be your go-to. T-shirts and Base Layers: Lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing will keep you comfortable. Waterproof Layer: A rain suit or waterproof jacket will keep you dry in sudden downpours.
Personal Items and Hygiene Essentials
Personal care is just as important on a motorcycle tour as it is anywhere else. The key is to keep it simple and compact:
Shaving Kit and Body Wash: Include small bottles to save room in your bag. Lip Balm: Wind and sun exposure can dry your lips quickly, so keep them protected. Baby Wipes: This is an often overlooked item, but you’ll be glad you packed it. Personal Items: Any medications, eye drops, or daily-use products you may need should be included in a small, dedicated bag.
Staying Hydrated and Energised
Riding for hours can be exhausting, and staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining focus and energy levels:
Water Back Pak: A refillable back pak with a hose is very important to keep you hydrated all day. Snacks: Protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit are great snacks that provide quick energy and don’t require refrigeration.
Navigation and Emergency Supplies
Getting lost is part of the adventure, but being stranded without essential supplies isn’t. Naturally, your guide and support crew will have all of these items, but it never hurts to carry basic navigation tools and emergency equipment:
Phone GPS: Download the Map.me app onto your phone. Your guide will provide you with routes and waypoints. Paper Map: While a phone GPS is handy while riding, a paper map is great for recording your ride. Phone battery: A phone’s GPS uses a lot of power, so it’s important to keep your phone charged during the day. Tool Kit and Repair Kit: Carrying a Leatherman or equivalent multi tool for simple repairs never hurts. Cable Ties: These versatile tools are excellent for securing loose parts or making temporary repairs. Soft Luggage: Choose soft, waterproof luggage for easy packing in the support vehicle. A tank bag, rucksack, or small waterproof: Always a great idea to carry items like rain gear, cameras, sunscreen, and spare clothes while on the road.
Extra Tips for Packing for a Motorcycle Tour
Packing for a motorcycle tour requires strategy. You want to balance between being prepared and packing light. Here are some extra tips to help streamline your packing process and ensure you’re ready for anything.
Even if you don’t expect rain, always pack with waterproofing in mind. Use waterproof bags or liners for your soft luggage. Consider packing your gear in waterproof sacks or bags to ensure that your essentials remain dry even in the worst downpours.
When packing clothes, roll them instead of folding them. Rolling takes up less space and helps prevent wrinkles. Store rolled clothes in a compression sack to keep everything compact and organised.
The weather can change unexpectedly, especially if riding through different regions or altitudes. Always bring layers, including a warm jacket and a rainproof outer layer. Cold mornings or rainy afternoons can catch you off guard even in summer, so it’s best to be prepared.
Keep smaller essentials like lip balm, toilet paper, or paper map in easy-to-reach pouches or compartments. You don’t want to dig through your whole pack to find a single item during a quick roadside stop.
Once you’ve finished creating your motorcycle trip checklist, review it again. Consider whether each item is necessary or if there’s a lighter alternative.
To Wrap Up
Planning what to pack for a motorcycle tour may seem overwhelming at first, but with a solid motorcycle trip packing list, you’ll have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable ride. Focus on packing the essentials: protective gear, emergency tools, personal items, and weather-appropriate clothing. Balancing space and safety will make your motorcycle adventure comfortable and worry-free. Enjoy the freedom of the open road, knowing you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead!
By Digby Greenhalgh
Digby Greenhalgh is the founder of Explore Indochina, and a recognized expert on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. All motorcycle tours are designed and guided by Digby.