Dust off your gear, because summer has arrived! With temperatures predicted to soar this weekend, there's no better time to escape the city and explore hidden gems on two wheels. Motorcycle camping offers a sense of adventure that perfectly captures the spirit of summer. Imagine cruising down scenic byways, the warm wind whipping through your hair, before pulling up at a secluded campsite nestled amongst fragrant pine trees.
If you're an experienced rider itching to hit the road, or someone curious about motorcycle camping for the first time, this blog post is for you! We'll be providing valuable tips on planning, packing, and essential gear to ensure your motorcycle camping adventure is a success.
Planning Your Escape
The key to a successful motorcycle camping trip lies in solid planning. Before you rev your engine and hit the open road, research camping options. Consider the kind of experience you desire. Are you seeking a rustic, off-the-grid adventure, or something with more amenities like showers and laundry facilities? Different campgrounds cater to different styles, so browse online resources and choose locations that align with your preferences. Make sure to factor in proximity to any desired destinations and choose routes with motorcycle-friendly terrain. You should also consider your riding skill level, and that of any riders that will be joining you - scenic mountain switchbacks might be thrilling for an experienced rider, but may not be ideal when your motorcycle is loaded down with camping gear and you have a beginner alongside you.
Valley’s Hidden Tip: Provincial and National Parks offer breathtaking scenery but can fill up quickly. Consider local campgrounds for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Packing and Securing Confidently
Motorcycle camping is all about embracing freedom and adventure, but not at the expense of comfort and safety. Try to pack light and prioritize essentials. Invest in versatile gear that can serve multiple purposes like a quick-drying camp towel that can double as a beach blanket. Embrace space-saving techniques like compression sacks to maximize your storage capacity. Check the weather forecast for your chosen route and pack accordingly so you have the right clothing and supplies for whatever weather conditions lay ahead. Every pound counts when you're riding hundreds of kilometres!
After you’ve gathered everything you want to bring along, getting it all to fit on a motorcycle can be tricky! The right storage and securing options will vary depending on what type of bike you’re on, who’s travelling with you, and where you’re headed. Traditional options include saddlebags, a tail bag, or a backpack specifically designed for motorcycles. Saddlebags can be found in hard or soft shell options, and they attach on either side of the rear wheel and offer ample storage space for your gear. They maintain a lower center of gravity for better handling, but ensuring you still have adequate leg movement is important when selecting the right size saddlebag. A tail bag is a great option for quickly accessing items, or if you need additional storage space. These bags sit on a rack or platform at the back of your motorcycle seat, but be mindful of weight restrictions and how it might affect your balance. Another option is a motorcycle backpack. These bags are designed for comfort and stability while riding, and are a viable option for lighter loads. However, ensure it's properly strapped to avoid back strain and doesn't interfere with your helmet.
Once you've chosen your storage solution, secure packing and weight distribution is paramount to a safe and enjoyable ride. Distribute weight evenly across your panniers or storage compartments, with heavier items placed lower and closer to the rider's center of gravity for optimal handling. Tightly secure gear to prevent it from shifting while you ride, using straps and bungee cords to compress soft bags and keep everything firmly in place. Loose items can become dangerous projectiles or disrupt your motorcycle's balance. It’s a good idea to test out bag placement before leaving for your trip, even with just a short ride around the block to see how your weight is balanced.
Valley’s Hidden Tip: Bring extra straps or bungees in case one goes missing, or you can’t get everything packed up exactly like it was originally.
Essential Camping Gear
Now that you've planned your route and assembled your lightweight packing list, let's discuss the essential gear that will transform your motorcycle into a comfortable mobile home. If you’re running a solo trek, a one-person tent specifically designed for motorcycle camping is ideal, and many compact tents feature an easy setup and weatherproofing. There are also many two-person tents out there that have quick setup but are a bit bigger to accommodate more than one sleeper.
Even though the weather is currently co-operating, don’t be fooled into bringing the wrong equipment! Be prepared for colder nights, and ensure you bring along a backpacking sleeping bag with a temperature rating appropriate for your destination will keep you warm at night. For extra comfort and insulation, consider bringing along a self-inflating sleeping pad for comfort and insulation.
Depending on your plans for nourishment, make sure you’ve got everything you need! If “home-cooked” meals are part of the camping experience, bringing along a small, lightweight camp stove with fuel is essential for preparing meals. A mess kit with a pot, pan, utensils, and a spork will take care of your cooking needs, and consider what type of water purification method, like tablets or a portable filter, you’re planning on using.
Valley’s Hidden Tip: Invest in a headlamp. It's a hands-free light source that's essential for navigating your campsite at night.
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With your motorcycle prepped, gear secured, and route planned, you're ready to hit the road! Remember to ride safe, enjoy the journey, and leave no trace at campsites. Motorcycle camping offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the outdoors so pack your sense of adventure, embrace the freedom of the open road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories under the summer sky.