A Beginner’s Guide to Motorcycle Camping

Whether you’re touring across the country or just heading out of town for the weekend, camping with your motorcycle is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Motorcycles are all about freedom, and so is camping. Motorcycles and camping make for a fun combination. However, bikes sometimes lack the space we’re used to for carrying luggage when traveling. If you want to have a successful camping trip, you’ll need to think ahead, bring only the essentials, and pack carefully. This short guide will show you how to do that!

Cargo Options

The cargo capacity of motorcycles isn’t like cars, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t options. If you’re willing to add a few accessories to your bike, you can increase your storage space. The main ways to do this are with saddlebags, top-side boxes, luggage racks, and possibly fuel tank bags. You can mix and match these features in whatever way you want, but the specific combination will dictate what the best way to pack will be.

Packing Tips

Efficient packing requires that you leave behind items you won’t use regularly and reduce the size of must-have essentials. Try to think about all those things you’ll be able to pick up along the way. Bringing along your own food and drinks may seem like a good way to save money, but it’s a bad way to save space. You’ll also want to eliminate redundant clothing and pack fewer bulky clothes, like coats and sweatshirts.

You can also consider investing in ultra-light versions of items you know you’ll need, such as a tent and sleeping bag. The added advantage here is that many sleeping bags use down insulation, meaning they’re not only small and packable, but they’re also incredibly warm. While these can cost a little more upfront, in the long term they’ll be worth it.

Motorcycle camping can be highly rewarding if you are well prepared. Try out our tips the next time you head out on the road for a motorcycle camping trip, and if you need parts or service for your bike before you go, stop by Jim Moroney's Inc. in New Windsor, NY. We proudly serve all those in Newburgh and Cornwall.