Motorcycle Travel Tips

This time of year, when the clouds just won’t stop and the rain and snow keep spoiling any plans to be outside, is a perfect opportunity to plan a few motorcycle trips. We previously provided a general outline on how to plan your next adventure, so here we’re going to offer up some motorcycle travel tips on how to be ready for anything once you’re out on the road.

Getting a route plan in place is key, but it’s also really helpful to think about the potential issues you might face on the way. Consider the elevation changes you’ll face, and what that might do to the temperature and weather conditions outside. See what typical weather patterns are for the areas you will pass through for the time of year you’re on the ride. Another motorcycle travel tip is to research must-hit spots like local eateries, sights, or roadside attractions that might add some memorable stops along the way.

Having things like a rain suit and a tool roll are almost no question if you're going to be on the road a few days. But it's also nice to have a few snacks in your pack and an emergency bottle of water or two. A multitool fits easily in a jacket pocket and can be a lifesaver at times. Small things that won't overload your bike and come in handy in a pinch are keys to packing smart. And don't forget to explore and invest in motorcycle luggage that best suits your needs and bike.

Having a ride route app like Rever or a Butler Map on hand when you’re taking down a midmorning coffee can open up a world of possibilities. Even if you’ve planned your route with scenic detours, your mood or your ambition could be a lot different once you’re out on the road. These are innocuous additions to your travel kit that allow you to easily change course for roads that have been certified awesome by other riders.

This could easily be in the Pack Smart section, but it’s so important in my opinion that it warrants its own section. Nearly all of us rely on smartphones these days, and if your bike isn’t equipped with a 12-volt outlet, a portable battery charger is a must-have. Think about all the things you rely on your phone to do out on the road. It could be music or directions, phone calls, texts, route adjustments. If everything else is going wrong for you, the last thing you need is for your phone to be dead too.

I’m almost wholly dependent on plastic in most cases, rarely do I ever have cash on me. When you’re out on the road though, cash is really helpful. If you’re out of gas in the middle of nowhere and have to pay someone for a gallon or two, for example.

If you’re planning to explore a foreign country, nail down some common phrases you are likely to need. Friendly greetings; questions about where stuff is like gas, food, or lodging; thank you; goodbye; no thanks. There are apps that can help break down language barriers, but it’s nice to be able to connect directly with people in simple conversation.

An often overlooked motorcycle travel tip is to have an old rag with you. It will get used a lot to wipe dead bugs off your shield. And if you’re riding with a tinted shield during the day, store a clear shield in your pack in case you decide to cover some miles in the dark. Or get a Transitions shield if it’s available for your helmet—those things are definitely worth the cost when light conditions change on the road.