Motorcycle Camping: Everything You Need To Get Out There

If you're the camper-hauling, meal-prepping, lounge-chair sitting, glamping type person, well, then, this post isn't for you. However, if you live by the phrase "less is more," and if your idea of camping involves a fire pit, a tent and sitting in the grass beneath the stars, you're in the right place. Not much is simpler than a weekend of motorcycle camping. If you discover a nice stretch of road that offers a smooth ride, you deserve more than just an afternoon of cruising it. Make a weekend of it. You don't have to be completely without your creature comforts if you don't want to be. Hitch a motorcycle travel trailer to your bike so that you can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing shelter and sustenance.

Just because you have a travel trailer, however, does not mean that you need to bring along everything but the kitchen sink. If you've never taken your bike on a camping trip before, you may have a hard time separating the essentials form the non-essentials. This guide identifies that absolute must-have motorcycle camping equipment, and a few "extras" that are always nice to have on hand.

Luggage

While you are free and able to toss everything you need into a trash bag and attach it to your bike, unless you like the sound of a Glad bag flapping in the wind, we don't recommended this method. Invest in a sturdy (and silent) bag. You can use hard luggage, leather luggage or textile luggage. Each gets the job done, and there is special equipment out there designed to secure each type to new and used motorbikes alike. That said, consider how and where you're going to be riding before you go out and purchase one particular type of suitcase.

Hard luggage is by far the best option when it comes to keeping your gear dry and safe from the elements. However, if your bike falls, a hard case can crack, in which case, you may be stuck sticking your gear in a Glad bag after all. Leather luggage is a tried-and true favorite, but it's expensive and requires regular maintenance. Also, you don't want to get it wet. Textile luggage is the best option by far, as it's compactable, affordable and can be weatherproofed.

Tent

You may love your bike so much that you're willing to lay next to it at night, but your bike won't keep you warm and dry when a storm rolls through. Though all tents serve the same purpose, some are better than others. Expedition tents are new to the market and designed with motorcycle camping in mind. These tents have a standard sleeping section, which is typically big enough for two adults, and an attached section where you can park your bike. The attached section has a door, which you can zip up to keep your bike safe from the elements and prying eyes.

Extras

First and foremost, make sure that you pack with the weather in mind. That said, assume that one day of your adventure will be unseasonable cool and one day will be unseasonably warm, so pack a sweater and a bathing suit just in case. You should also throw in some regular shoes, as wearing motorcycle boots all day every day can become uncomfortable. If you're attached to technology, or if you just want a way through which your family can reach you, consider investing in a portable or solar charger. Also, if you plan on keeping your friends, don't forget soap, deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush.

If you're ready to experience camping in a whole new way, take your bike on a weekend adventure. If you don't yet own a bike, shop Honda motorcycles for sale at Vey's Powersports to find the right machine for you.