Okay, so, I’ve been getting into this whole motorcycle camping thing, and let me tell you, it’s been a real learning curve. I wanted to share my journey, what I’ve picked up along the way, and hopefully, it helps some of you guys out there who are thinking about doing the same.
Gearing Up
First off, figuring out what to pack and how to pack it was a big deal. I mean, you’re on a bike, so space is at a premium, right? Here’s what I did:
- Light stuff goes up top: Clothes and other lightweight gear went into my top box. Made sense to me since I wouldn’t need to access them as often.
- Heavy stuff down low: Tools and heavier items, I packed them at the bottom of my saddlebags. It helps keep the bike balanced.
- Tent and sleeping bag: These were a bit tricky. I tried putting them in the panniers, but eventually, I found that using dry bags on the pillion seat worked best for me.
Setting Up Camp
Alright, so you’ve got your gear sorted, now let’s talk about setting up camp. I made a few mistakes along the way, but hey, that’s how you learn, right?
- Clear the area: Before you even think about pitching your tent, make sure you clear the ground of any rocks or sticks. Trust me, you don’t want to sleep on a lumpy surface.
- Inflate that mattress: I learned that you don’t want your mattress too firm or too soft. It’s all about finding that sweet spot. And yeah, an inflatable pillow is a game-changer.
- Creature comforts: I found that earplugs are essential. Especially if you’re not used to sleeping outdoors. Also, a bottle of water in the tent is a lifesaver.
- Sleeping bag: Make sure you get one that’s rated for the right temperature. I went with one that was a bit warmer than I thought I’d need, and I didn’t regret it.
- Keep warm: A soft beanie cap helps keep your head warm at night. It can get pretty chilly, even in the summer.
Lessons Learned
So, after a few trips, here’s the main takeaway: Keep the heavier stuff at the bottom and close to the bike’s center of gravity. It makes a huge difference in how the bike handles. And make sure the things you need often are easy to get to.
This whole motorcycle camping thing has been an adventure, and I’m still learning. But it’s been a blast, and I can’t wait to get back out there. Hopefully, my little journey here helps some of you out. If you’ve got any tips, drop them in the comments! Ride safe, everyone!
