Contact phone: 877-310-2882

Travel Preparation Checklist: Motorcycle

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

Backpack

Secure Storage for Gear Transportation

Pack Cover

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

Motorcycle Manual

Guide for Your Bike

GPS/Maps/Compass

Navigational Tools

Hydration Pack/Water Bottle

Portable Water Source

Microfiber Cleaning Cloths/Towels

Clean Bike

Battery Kits

Portable Energy Source

Key Carabiners

Organize Keys and Fobs

Lip Balm

Keeps Lips Hydrated

Sunscreen

Protect Skin from Sun’s Rays

Sunglasses

Shield Your Eyes from the Sun

Towels

Dry Yourself and Your Gear

Cameras/Holders

Capture the Memories

Jewelry Bag

Women’s Accessory Storage

Tote Bag

Carry Loose Items

ID/Passport

Essential for Identification Purposes

Organizers

Organize Your Luggage

Headphones

Personal Listening Device

Locks

Keep Luggage Secure

Compression Sacks

Compress Gear for Snug Fits

Hand/Foot Warmers

Keep Extremities Warm in Cool Conditions

Flashlight/Headlamp

Portable Illumination

Knife/Multi-Tool

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

Toiletry Bag

Store all of Your Toiletries

Toothbrush/Toothpaste

Dental Hygienics

Medications

Pack for the Duration of Your Trip

Face Wash

Wash Your Face

Soap/Body Wash

Cleansing

Shampoo/Conditioner

Cleansing for Hair

Shaving Kit

Grooming Tools for Men

Liquid Tubes

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

Wicking T-Shirt and Pants

Warm Weather Attire

Gloves (Waterproof, Insulated, and Light)

Insulation and Protection for Hands

Light Shirt

Good for Warm Weather Comfort

Jacket/Windbreaker

Insulation and Protection

Rain Suit

Protection in Rainy Weather

Sweater

Insulation in Chilly Airplanes

Boots

Foot Protection

Socks

Feet Insulation/Comfort

Neck Gaiter

For Cold-Weather Riding

Thermal Underwear

Cold Weather Base Layer Insulation

Headwrap

Wicking and Insulating Properties for Head

Bandana

Keep Bugs off Face

Headband

Keep Hair off of Face

Reflective Jacket

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

First Aid Kit

Has All of Your First Aid Essentials

Advil/Tylenol

For Minor Ailments

Flare

Signal for Help

Reflective Tape

Increased Visibility

Tool Set

Emergency Repairs

Air Pump

In Case of Low Air Tire