A Beginner’s Guide to Motorcycle Camping
The roar of the engine beneath you during a long-distance motorcycle tour is an unbeatable thrill. If you want to up your adventure game, then you might consider motorcycle camping. After a long day cruising the roads, you’re probably ready to kick back and relax under a starry night sky accompanied by a cool breeze. We’ve put together some helpful tips for motorcycle camping that we recommend checking out before you ride off into the sunset.
Planning Ahead
While short rides don’t usually require much planning, you’ll want to set some time aside to plan for motorcycle camping. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, you’ll find that motorcycle camping is an investment of time and money. Start planning by making a list of sightseeing spots and any other attractions you want to visit. It’s a good idea to reserve campsites near your destinations in advance so that you can save a few extra bucks. Another important element to keep in mind when you’re planning is the weather. You don’t want the hassle of dealing with extreme weather conditions when you’re on the road.
Packing Wisely
Packing the must-have essentials is going to be your best bet for a successful motorcycle camping trip. You don’t want to be adding unnecessary weight to your bike. Only pack what you need: shelter, clothing, food, water, medication, toiletries, and supplies for building a fire. For many of these items, you can probably find small packs that will help save on space and weight. You’ll also want to check if you can find a lightweight sleeping bag and tent so you won’t have as many heavy, bulky items to worry about.
Cargo Choices
Downsizing is important, but there are some items that you can’t eliminate, like the previously mentioned camping supplies. Some motorcycles come from the dealership with storage, so you may not need much more. When deciding on additional cargo space, some of the most popular options include leather cargo bags, dry bags, and hard luggage.
Motorcycle Care
Wherever you might plan to camp, it’s important to take care of your bike. It doesn’t hurt to follow some extra precautions in order to keep your motorcycle safe. Of course, you’ll want to lock it up at night. If it rains, you’ll want to protect your bike overnight from the elements so you can prevent any possible damage. Remember to always make sure that you have the necessary fluids at the appropriate levels on your motorcycle to avoid getting stranded.
We hope that these tips have been useful and you now feel ready to hit the road for your first motorcycle camping trip. If you have any further questions or want to check out some new gear before you go, visit Hideout Harley-Davidson® in Joplin, MO. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Springfield, MO, and Rogers, AR.