Your Complete Guide to Motorcycle Camping
Take a long ride. Free Camp. Live It Up.
Combining motorcycling and camping is the ultimate freedom, regardless of your level of experience or readiness for your first long-distance journey. Driving along beautiful roads during the day and sleeping beneath the stars at night creates the ideal mix of excitement and peace. Everything you need to know for a memorable motorcycle camping trip will be covered in this guide.
Why Motorcycle Camping?
Motorcycle camping is about embracing the minimalist lifestyle. You’re not bound by hotel bookings, rigid schedules, or unnecessary baggage. With just your bike and the open road, you get:
- Freedom to explore off-grid destinations
- Budget-friendly travel
- Immersive nature experiences
- A deeper connection to your journey
But it also means being prepared—smart packing, route planning, and the right gear are crucial.
Essential Gear Checklist
Packing space is limited, so every item must serve a purpose. Here’s a compact checklist of motorcycle camping essentials:
🏕️ Camping Gear
- Compact Tent or Bivvy Sack – Lightweight and waterproof
- Sleeping Bag – Rated for the coldest temp you expect
- Sleeping Pad or Inflatable Mat – Comfort matters
- Camping Pillow – Or use a stuff sack with clothes
🛠️ Motorcycle Essentials
- Tool Kit – Tire repair kit, multi-tool, zip ties
- Spare Fuses, Bulbs, and Cables
- Chain Lube and Cleaning Cloth
- Kickstand Plate – For soft or muddy ground
🍳 Cooking & Eating
- Mini Camping Stove or JetBoil
- Fuel Canisters
- Lightweight Cookware (pot, mug, spork)
- Food Supplies – Freeze-dried meals, protein bars, instant coffee
🧳 Packing & Storage
- Saddlebags or Hard Cases
- Dry Bags for Clothes and Electronics
- Tank Bag with Map Holder or Phone Mount
- Cargo Net or Bungee Straps
🧼 Personal & Safety
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Toiletries (travel size)
- Headlamp or Flashlight
- Water Filter or Purifier
- Bug Spray & Sunscreen
Planning Your Route
🗺️ Pick Scenic Roads
Motorcycle routes are about the journey, not just the destination. Look for backroads, national parks, and byways known for sweeping views and curves.
Some top destinations:
- Pacific Coast Highway, California
- Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia–North Carolina
- Great Ocean Road, Australia
- Scottish Highlands, UK
⛺ Find Campgrounds or Wild Spots
Apps like iOverlander, The Dyrt, and Campendium help locate free or cheap campsites. Consider:
- National forests (often allow dispersed camping)
- State parks with motorcycle-accessible campgrounds
- Private campgrounds with basic facilities
Pro Tip: Always check local regulations—some areas don’t allow fires or camping outside designated areas.
Packing Tips for Motorcyclists
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Keep heavy items low and centered
- Waterproof Everything: Use dry bags and rain covers
- Pack Light, Layer Smart: Merino wool layers and multi-use clothes
- Keep Essentials Accessible: Store rain gear, snacks, and maps up top
Camp Like a Pro
🪵 Set Up Smart
- Arrive before sunset for visibility
- Choose flat ground and avoid flood-prone areas
- Keep gear organized—use compression sacks and cube organizers
🔥 Cook Quick & Clean
- Use a windscreen for your stove
- Keep meals simple: one-pot pasta, oats, soup
- Pack out all trash and minimize waste
🧘♂️ Unplug & Recharge
- Bring a power bank or solar charger
- Journal your thoughts or sketch your surroundings
- Enjoy the solitude—read, meditate, or just listen to the wild
Safety & Comfort
- Check Weather Frequently – Conditions can change rapidly
- Stay Hydrated – Especially during hot riding days
- Let Someone Know Your Route – Especially in remote areas
- Secure Your Bike – Use a lock and cover if needed
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle camping isn’t just a trip—it’s a mindset. It teaches you how little you really need, how beautiful the world truly is, and how capable you are when the road gets rough.
So pack light, ride hard, sleep under the stars, and wake up to the sound of nature whispering “You made it.”
