How to Pack a Motorcycle for Camping: An Expert’s Guide
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your ride out camping, you’ve come to the right place. Packing a motorcycle for camping can be a complicated endeavor, but with the right approach and using the tips and tricks in this article, you’ll be ready to rumble in no time. As a father of three kids and an experienced camper, I know a few things about packing for an outdoor adventure. Let’s explore the steps for packing a motorcycle for camping.
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Plan Ahead
The first crucial step for packing a motorcycle for camping is to plan ahead. First and foremost, you should decide what type of camping trip you will be embarking on. Think about whether you’ll be taking a one-nighter, or if you are looking to stay out for a few days. You should also make a list of the items you want to bring with you and attempt to pack as light as possible. Afterward, plan for how you will transport your items.
If you plan on using a trailer, you should make sure it is secure. You will need to attach the trailer to your motorcycle without any loose components that could create any danger while riding. Once the trailer is secure, you can begin your packing process. You should pack the items that you plan on taking with you such as clothes, cooking tools, and camping equipment.
Pack Strategically
This is the most important step for packing a motorcycle for camping. Even before you load up the items on the trailer or any other vehicle, you should plan out how you will pack the motorcycle properly. Strategically packing your motorcycle will help reduce the amount of weight you have to carry, which in turn will help you remain comfortable on the road.
The most important items should be placed in the front and the easiest to access. Consider using a soft bag that straps over the rear seat of your bike. This will help to secure your items, without adding too much weight, and can be easily accessed. Your sleeping bag, clothes, and other small items should be placed in the bag.
Storage Bag & Lashing Straps
You can never be too prepared for a camping trip, so you should always try to bring as much gear with you as possible. A storage bag will help you organize your items and prevent them from bouncing around while you ride. Additionally, bring a few lashing straps along with you. You can use them to secure loose items, such as sleeping bags or tents, on the back of the motorcycle. As a bonus, you can even attach additional items to the outside of the storage bag or use it as a makeshift seat on occasions.
Stay Safe
Even if you plan ahead and pack strategically, you can still make mistakes while packing your motorcycle for camping. To ensure your safety, you should keep the following in mind:
- Check the tie-downs on the trailer to make sure all of your items are secure before you go.
- Make sure you keep all cargo within the legal weight limit.
- Wear proper protective gear such as a helmet, gloves, boots, and other essential items before you ride.
- Make sure your bike is in good condition and that the tires are properly inflated.
- Be mindful of the speed limit and traffic regulations.
You can find more tips and helpful advice in the following video:
Conclusion
Preparing for a camping trip on a motorcycle requires careful planning and packing. Start by deciding what type of camping trip you are going on and making a list of the necessary items. Then, pack your motorcycle strategically to reduce the amount of weight you have to carry. Finally, make sure your trailer is secure and that everything is packed in a way that will keep you safe on the road.