Essential Items to Pack for a Motorcycle Road Trip

Whether taking a motorcycle road trip in North America, or to sparsely populated areas around the world, it will be made easier with good planning and forethought. The items included in this packing list are ones that my husband and I have found to come in handy if traveling through even rural and lesser populated areas.

Personal Gear:

When riding a motorcycle, you are exposed to the changing weather conditions and elements, so plan accordingly and include items such as:

  • rain gear (a couple of disposable rain gear packs for emergencies could be kept in backpacks)
  • gloves, knee pads and/or elbow pads
  • a wind-proof /rain-proof jacket and pants
  • hiking boots
  • sunglasses
  • helmet
  • hat for cooler climates
  • extra change of warm clothes
  • pen and paper
  • camera
  • cell phone, with charger
  • ID (Identification) and wallet
  • toiletries and hand disinfectant
  • toothbrush, floss and toothpaste
  • small flashlight or headlamp
  • sunscreen
  • SPF chapstick
  • bug spray
  • sheets and pillowcase (if staying in hostels that may be questionable in the way of the cleanliness)
  • emergency first aid kit, including any necessary medication or vitamins

Food and water to plan for the motorcycle trip:

Although you may be stopping at restaurants during your journey, these items may come in handy should you find your next meal further away than you expected:

  • iodine or small water filter (if traveling to rural areas and purchasing clean water is not an option)
  • refillable water bottle
  • chewing gum or candies
  • emergency food and snacks such as protein bars

Motorcycle gear:

Pack your motorcycle planning for any emergency maintenance along the way. Also, a variety of items for tying down gear are useful to have on hand. These items are essential:

  • bungee cords and ropes for tying down gear (always bring extra in case you find the items are shifting en route)
  • waterproof covers for gear to be strapped to the motorcycle
  • emergency tools (such as air pump, wrenches, pliers)
  • tire tube repair kit or emergency leak repair (usually comes in pressurized can)
  • jerry can with extra fuel
  • chain lubricant

Other things to remember before your motorcycle trip:

If you have a general itinerary, be sure a close friend or family member knows about it to keep tabs on you in case of an emergency.

Keeping a checklist such as this one accessible and referring to it prior to a road trip will ensure that you don’t forget any essential items. You will be able to pack even on short notice so that you can get to the more gratifying part of your journey: the ride!