Motorcycle Camping Gear

As with any camping trip, preparation for a motorcycle camping adventure requires proper gear. When selecting your tent for use on an outing it must meet seasonal and climate standards while being compact enough to fit easily in saddlebags.

If bikepacking is part of your plan, there are tents designed specifically to allow riders to bring their bike inside the vestibule!

Tent

Motorcycle tents are essential camping gear that allow campers to sleep comfortably out of the elements. Choose a model rated for the season and climate where you plan to camp, then add sleeping bag and pad for comfort.

Packability and compactness are important characteristics in a motorcycle tent. Look for models that collapse down to fit easily in your side bag on a bike, with windows and vents for ventilation on hot days. Durability and quality should also be high priority: seek durable fabric, brand name parts, and an adequate waterproof rating rating.

Sleeping Bag

Sleeping bags are essential motorcycle camping gear. Choose a comfortable yet compact model rated to the temperature in which you will be camping; one that easily fits into saddlebags would also be preferable.

An essential comfort item, pillows can provide much-needed support. Look for one that packs small yet is highly absorbent.

An essential water bottle, investing in one that is lightweight yet sturdy with calibrations to monitor how much you drink is also crucial.

Dry Bags

If you plan on participating in motorcycle camping or float boarding activities over the coming weekend or month, having appropriate gear to store essentials securely is paramount. A great way to safeguard this equipment is with dry bags.

Dry bags designed specifically for use on float trips and motorcycle camping are typically more expensive than their duffel counterparts, but can help ensure your gear remains dry during rainstorms.

Consider investing in a dry bag equipped with built-in straps to securely fasten it to the bike, eliminating the need to bring multiple straps or bungees that might get misplaced when disconnecting. This option could prove especially valuable.

Lights

Camped motorcycle trips offer an exciting and liberating way to travel; camping is especially effective for budget travelers looking for outdoor experiences without breaking the bank on accommodation costs.

Headlamps or flashlights are essential pieces of gear when camping - either car camping or backpacking. Lightweight LED models make great choices as they pack small, run on one battery and don't take up much room in your luggage.

The UST Spright LED lantern is an easy addition to your luggage that provides multiple lighting modes and waterproof protection, making it an excellent addition for emergency kits.

Food & Water

As part of your camping adventure at Sturgis Motorcycle Rally or Route 66, having all the right gear is key. Here's a checklist with everything from food and water needs to sleeping bags and pads for motorcycle camping adventures.

Your camping essentials should include a tent rated to the weather conditions you will encounter as well as lightweight sleeping bag and pad that are compact. A stove with fuel canisters is necessary, along with some form of lighting such as headlamps or flashlights.

Bring navigation tools such as maps, compasses and GPS systems so you can find your way back to your bike quickly.

Toiletries

As with any camping trip, when riding a motorcycle it is crucial that the amount of weight carried behind your rear wheel remains as minimal as possible to prevent your front tire from lifting and becoming dangerously off balance.

Carry all necessary toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo and toilet paper rolls with you at all times. Furthermore, having a headlamp or flashlight available in case you need to leave the tent during the night or need something from your luggage quickly.

An additional precautionary step would be bringing along a bike lock if your motorcycle gets stolen, making sure that it can fold up small enough to easily fit in your luggage.