Your next motorcycle trip should be carefree and exciting, yet it should also involve a bit of planning to ensure that it is enjoyable, comfortable, and most of all, safe.

The First Steps to Preparing for a Trip

First things first: you should inspect your bike thoroughly to ensure that it is in safe working order for your road trip. Your inspection should include: making sure the tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread; making sure that all controls and lights are properly working; making sure that all fluid levels are sufficient; and making sure that the motorcycle’s frame and suspension system are intact and properly functioning.

Once you have thoroughly inspected your bike, you will need to make sure that your motorcycle insurance is up to date. It is also probably a good idea to re-check the details of your motorcycle insurance policy to ensure that you are fully covered while on your road trip.

Lastly, you will need to provide additional storage space on your motorcycle, if necessary. You may choose to outfit your motorcycle with saddlebags and tank bags, for example.

What to Pack for Your Trip

Once you have checked your motorcycle, outfitted it with proper storage compartments and double-checked your motorcycle insurance policy, you can begin packing.

Because space is limited on your motorcycle, you will want to pack lightly and carry only essentials for your trip. Aside from the obvious needs such as toiletries and clothing, there are five essential items you will want to consider packing for your next motorcycle trip:

1. Safety Supplies – A first-aid kit may come in very handy.  Some items to consider in your first-aid kit include: sun block, ear plugs, over-the-counter pain medication, band aids and antibiotic cream or spray.
2. Cell Phone – A cell phone is a necessity for any long road trip, as it can provide a means with which to communicate in the event of an accident, a breakdown or other type of emergency.
3. GPS/Map – GPS systems are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to maps, although you should have at least one paper map along with you for the trip.
4. Healthy Snacks and Water – You should always keep a handful of healthy snacks, such as granola bars or energy bars, as well as water, with you on a long motorcycle road trip.
5. Tool Box – A tool box, outfitted with necessary tools, should also be an essential item for your long motorcycle road trip. Some of the tools to consider bringing along include: a ratchet with an extension and a variety of sockets; a screwdriver with interchangeable bits; needle nose pliers; spare fuses; electrical tape; and an oil filter wrench.