WHAT TO PACK

FOR A ROAD TRIP

Below are three lists, which you can use as a tool to help you organize the packing of your bike.  Each list has columns that are labeled; LEFT (for the left saddlebag), RIGHT (for the right saddlebag), TOP (for the tank, back seat, trunk or luggage rack), and OTHER (for pockets and other hiding places).  If you are pulling a trailer or running a hack (sidecar), you might want to make another column to help keep track of the items stored in those places as well. We also left a little room at the bottom of each list for you to add a few other items, if you need to.

So, here's a little something you can do that might help. While you're packing for that trip you've been wanting to take for so long, be sure to place an X in the appropriate box as the items are being stored.  That way, after a great day out on the road, you'll know that everything has been accounted for, and you'll also know right where to find it.

For your convenience, you can print up all of the packing lists by just clicking on the link at the bottom of each list. It's our hope that you might find these lists helpful.

Tips For The Trip

1. Use the packing list below as a guide as where to place items in the various storage areas. Also, include your jacket as a storage area.

2. Depending on the bike, you'll need saddlebags, a tail or "T" pack, possibly a tank bag, and several bungee cords. (Not sure there is such a thing as, too many bungees.)

3. Clothes should be tightly rolled up to consume the smallest space.

4. For good balance, you might want to weigh the packed saddlebags on a scale. That way you can evenly distribute the load on the left and right sides of the bike.

5. Don't put too much weight on the back of the bike. See your owner's manual for load limits.

6. After all necessities are loaded, place your rain gear somewhere on the top of everything, secured by separate bungee cords. You don't want to have to unpack a bunch of stuff when it starts to rain or snow.

7. Double-check your list to ensure that everything is on-board.

8. Place the packing list in your jacket or other readily available spot.

9. Use removable bag inserts in your saddlebags to more easily remove the contents from your bike to the motel room or campsite.

10. Always place items you don't want to get wet in plastic zip-type bags.

11. Try to keep items you need on the road in a place where they can be easily accessed.

12. If you can find them, get plastic coated maps and a compass for the journey, and keep them readily available.

You might want to pencil in how many of each item you have. The count will obviously change depending on the length of the trip. The thing is, you don't want to discover that you ran out of something you need, in the middle of "No-Where".

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MOTORCYCLE PACKING LIST

- REGULAR STUFF -

 

MOTORCYCLE PACKING LIST

- CLOTHES -

 

MOTORCYCLE PACKING LIST

- TOILETRIES -