Outdoor adventurers and casual vacationers alike can appreciate the value of traveling, and one of the more unique ways of traveling is via motorcycle. When traveling via motorcycle, you may have a destination in mind, or the ride itself may be the destination on its own! For motorcycle enthusiasts and casual riders alike, preparing for the journey is essential to safety and comfort.
Many travels end with excursions that include a day of hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or even a multi-day backpacking and camping tour, so be sure to check out our other preparation lists respectively if these pertain to you.
Click here to download a printable PDF shopping list.
Motorcycle Travel Basic Gear
Item | Why You Need It |
Motorcycle | Primary Transportation |
Helmet | Head Protection |
Motorcycle Touring Bag/Saddle Bags | Gear Storage on Motorcycle |
Shield Your Pack from the Elements | |
Motorcycle Cover | Protect Bike When Not in Use |
Accessory Items
In addition to many of the essentials, you’ll want to consider a few of these accessories to help make your trip more enjoyable. Some of these are designed for organizational purposes while others simply are designed to make your life a little easier.
Item | Why You Need It |
Guide for Your Bike | |
Navigational Tools | |
Clean Bike | |
Portable Energy Source | |
Keeps Lips Hydrated | |
Dry Yourself and Your Gear | |
Capture the Memories | |
Women’s Accessory Storage | |
Carry Loose Items | |
ID/Passport | Essential for Identification Purposes |
Organize Your Luggage | |
Personal Listening Device | |
Keep Luggage Secure | |
Compress Gear for Snug Fits | |
Keep Extremities Warm in Cool Conditions | |
Essential Tool |
Personal Care Items
Remember that traveling via plane, boat, car, motorcycle, or bus will all require that one stocks their personal effects appropriately. Motorcyclists will need to stock their personal care items for the trip as well as destination, so be sure to break up large bottles of liquids into smaller containers and bring only travel-sized items when possible to conserve space.
Item | Why You Need It |
Store all of Your Toiletries | |
Dental Hygienics | |
Medications | Pack for the Duration of Your Trip |
Face Wash | Wash Your Face |
Cleansing | |
Shampoo/Conditioner | Cleansing for Hair |
Shaving Kit | Grooming Tools for Men |
Store Your Liquid Toiletries | |
Deodorant | Anti-Perspiration |
Lotion | Keep Skin Hydrated |
Laundry Bag and Laundry Pods | Store Dirty Laundry and Clean During Stops |
Clothing
While much of your clothing will depend on your destination, you’ll still want to review this checklist to ensure that you’ve covered many of the essentials. Those with longer trips and more drastic climate changes during their trip will likely need to pack more than those going on a short, mild-temperature excursion. Again, review checklists for specific destinations and excursions in order to ensure that you’ve packed your luggage accordingly, as this list only includes the basics for your motorcycle trip.
Item | Why You Need It |
Motorcycle/Padded Jacket | Specialty Jacket for Motorcyclists |
Warm Weather Attire | |
Good for Warm Weather Comfort | |
Insulation and Protection | |
Protection in Rainy Weather | |
Insulation in Chilly Airplanes | |
Boots | Foot Protection |
For Cold-Weather Riding | |
Wicking and Insulating Properties for Head | |
Keep Bugs off Face | |
Keep Hair off of Face | |
Increase Visibility in Dark Conditions |
First Aid Essentials
Motorcyclists must be prepared for many common ailments as well as emergency situations should they arise, as many of these situations can occur away from urban areas where help may not be immediately available. Review this checklist for your first aid basics.
Item | Why You Need It |
Advil/Tylenol | For Minor Ailments |
Flare | Signal for Help |
Increased Visibility | |
Emergency Repairs | |
Air Pump | In Case of Low Air Tire |