What To Pack For Motorcycle Touring

What you’ll pack for a motorcycle tour depends on your destination, the duration of your trip, and your personal preferences. Packing also requires a mix of essentials, contingency gear and comfort items!

Below is a comprehensive packing list of what you should consider taking on your next motorcycle touring adventure!

Safety Gear

  • DOT-approved helmet
  • motorcycle gloves
  • motorcycle jacket with armor or riding suit
  • motorcycle pants or armored riding jeans
  • sturdy motorcycle riding boots, with ankle protection
  • high-visibility vest or jacket (for added visibility)

Tools and Maintenance

  • motorcycle owner’s manual
  • basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches)
  • motorcycle tire repair kit (patches, plugs, tire gauge, and pump)
  • motorcycle chain lubricant and cleaning tools
  • duct tape, zip ties, and electrical tape
  • multitool or Swiss Army knife
  • headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)

Motorcycle-Specific Accessories

  • motorcycle cover
  • tank bag, saddlebags, tail bag, and/or panniers for storage
  • bungee cords or cargo nets for securing luggage
  • fuel canister (if traveling in remote areas)
  • GPS device or smartphone mount (with charging capabilities)
  • locks (for securing your motorcycle and belongings)

Clothing

  • riding gear (see above, under “Safety Gear”)
  • moisture-wicking base layers
  • mid-layer (thermal or fleece for cold weather)
  • motorcycle socks (pack several pairs)
  • underwear and undershirts
  • comfortable off-bike clothing and shoes for downtime
  • lightweight, moisture-wicking T-shirts
  • neck gaiter or balaclava (for cold weather)
  • motorcycle socks
  • thermal, layered undergarments (that are moisture-wicking)

Weather And Elements Gear

  • motorcycle rain gear (jacket and pants or a one-piece suit)
  • motorcycle cold-weather gear (thermal or heated clothing, heated grips, heated vest, etc.)
  • sunscreen and sunglasses
  • wide-brimmed hat or cap
  • insect repellent

Riding Essentials

  • motorcycle key or fob and spare key
  • motorcycle goggles or a clear visor for your helmet (for nighttime and low-light riding)

Personal Items And Documents

  • mobile phone and charger (waterproof, if possible)
  • power bank for recharging devices
  • travel guidebook and physical maps
  • notebook and pen
  • passport, ID, driver’s license, and motorcycle registration and motorcycle insurance
  • travel insurance documents
  • cash and credit/debit cards
  • medical insurance information
  • emergency contact list
  • printed itinerary with important contact numbers and addresses

Food And Water

  • reusable water bottles or a hydration system (like a Camelback)
  • non-perishable snacks (nuts, energy bars, dried fruit)

Toiletries And Personal Care

  • prescription medications and over-the-counter medications (like Tylenol)
  • toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss
  • soap, shampoo, and conditioner (in small travel-sized containers)
  • razor and shaving cream
  • towel or microfiber towel (quick-drying)
  • toilet paper and wet wipes
  • hand sanitizer
  • cream for diaper rash (this can come in handy if you get soaked while you’re riding and develop sensitive skin, in sensitive parts)

Entertainment and Comfort

  • tablet or e-reader
  • music player and headphones
  • travel pillow
  • earplugs (for sleeping)
  • deck of cards and travel-sized games

See Related Topics:
Types Of Motorcycle Touring
Tips For Motorcycle Touring
How To Prepare For Motorcycle Touring
How To Pack For Motorcycle Touring
Motorcycle Tour Companies