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There's nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the open road on your motorcycle. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the sense of freedom that comes with it are unbeatable. And add in the fact that you can camp along the way? Sign us up! But if you're new to motorcycle camping, there are a few mistakes that you'll want to avoid.
Related: 5 Beginner Tips For Solo Motorcycle Camping
Just like anything in life, there is a right way and a wrong way to do things. The same goes for motorcycle camping. If you want to enjoy your time out on the open road, and avoid any unnecessary hassles or headaches, then pay attention to the following tips. In this blog post, we will go over 5 mistakes that people often make when motorcycle camping, so that you can steer clear of them.
1) Packing Too Much Stuff:
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The first mistake that many motorcycle campers make is packing too much stuff. When it comes to motorcycle camping, less is more. You'll want to pack light so that your bike isn't overloaded and uncomfortable to ride. Pack only the essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, change of clothes, and toiletries. And if you're planning on cooking while you camp, make sure to pack lightweight cooking gear as well.
One way to avoid forgetting anything important is to make a packing list before you leave for your trip. This way, you can be sure that you have everything that you need before you hit the road. Take some time to sit down and think about what you will need for your trip, and then make a list accordingly. Once everything is packed up, double check your list just to be sure.
Related: A Complete Motorcycle Camping Gear List: What to pack?
2) Not Planning Your Route:
Photo by Ralph Katieb on Unsplash
One of the most common mistakes people make when motorcycle camping is not taking the time to plan their route. This can lead to getting lost, running into bad weather, or even getting into an accident. Sit down and map out your route before you leave so that you know where you are going and what to expect along the way.
Many experienced motorcycle campers recommend using Google Maps when planning your route. You simply need to enter in your starting point and destination and Google will show you a variety of different routes that you can take. In addition to showing you different routes, Google Maps will also provide you with estimated travel times and mileage so that you can make sure that your trip is feasible given the amount of time that you have available.
Once you've planned out your overall route, it's time to start thinking about where you're going to stay overnight. When plotting out overnight stops, make sure to look for places that have adequate space for parking your bike overnight. And try to find places that offer amenities such as showers and restrooms so that you can freshen up after a long day on the road.
3) Not Wearing The Right Gear:
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This one might seem obvious, but it's important to wear the right gear when motorcycle camping. That means investing in a good quality helmet, jacket, boots, and gloves. This gear will protect you from the elements and help keep you safe in case of an accident. And don't forget to pack rain gear just in case!
4) Overlooking Your Campsite's Weather Conditions:
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Another rookie mistake when it comes to motorcycle camping is overlooking your campsite's weather conditions. Just because the weather is nice when you leave doesn't mean it will be nice when you arrive! Always check the forecast for your destination before setting off on your journey so that you can be prepared for any changes in the weather. trust us, there's nothing worse than being caught in a downpour without an umbrella or raincoat!
5) Not Checking Your Motorcycle
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This one is a no-brainer, but it's important to make a quick once-over of your motorcycle before hitting the road. This is especially true for a motorcycle camping trip since you will be relying on your motorcycle to get you around and keep your gear safe. Check the engine oil, tire pressure, chain tension, lights and brakes to ensure that your bike is in good working condition. This will help prevent any unwanted breakdowns or accidents while you're out on the open road.
Conclusion:
Motorcycle camping can be a great way to see the country and spend some time outdoors—but only if it's done right. by following these simple tips, and avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your next trip is a success. Bon voyage!
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