Motorcycle Camping

Riding a motorcycle is one of the best ways to see the scenery, but camping is the best way to become part of the scenery. Putting the two activities together makes for a truly special experience, and it’s something more motorcycle owners should try.

If you’re going to take your motorcycle camping though, there are a few things you need to consider. Camping usually requires a good amount of cargo, and organizing all that cargo can be tricky. Below, we’ll discuss the basic options available for anyone who needs to haul cargo for their motorcycle camping experience. We’ll also cover a few tips for correct packing and weight distribution on your bike.

For all your motorcycle needs, stop by Woods Fun Center in Austin, Texas. We proudly serve the areas of New Braunfels, Round Rock, and San Marcos, Texas.

Cargo Options

Camping requires bringing the essential gear you’ll need, and depending on the length of your stay, that could be a lot of gear. Packing all that gear requires having the right luggage and storage space. There are a few basic options available that will make the job easier.

Saddlebags are one of the oldest and most trusted cargo options for motorcycles. Saddlebags are often constructed out of leather, metal, or fiberglass, and each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Nothing beats the look of a leather saddlebag, which is especially complimentary to the look of classic motorcycles like baggers and cruisers. Leather bags can be difficult to maintain, though. Metal saddlebags can be made out of steel or aluminum. Some metal saddlebags are paint matched to the bike itself, while others retain a natural metallic look. They’re easy to clean and practical. Fiberglass and composite saddlebags share many of the same qualities with metal saddlebags, but at a lower weight.

If you have a lot of gear to carry, you might consider investing in a few other items as well. Top-side boxes are often handy because they provide enough space for an entire helmet, which is nice when you actually get to the campsite. A cargo rack will give you a platform to which you can strap whatever luggage you personally prefer.

Packing Tips

Smart packing is key with motorcycles, even if you have lots of cargo room. This is because how weight is distributed on your bike will greatly affect the bike’s riding dynamics. In general, you’ll want the weight to be as close to the bike’s center of gravity as possible while also being as symmetrically distributed as possible. (One of the reasons people choose saddlebags is that they keep the weight low to the ground and as far forward as possible.) Weight that is off-center, too high, or asymmetrical can cause the bike to ride unpredictably.

Smart weight distribution requires smart packing. For longer trips, it’s probably worth investing in high-quality backpacking gear. Backpacking gear tends to offer the best performance while being extremely lightweight and durable. A backpacking sleeping bag and tent will be pounds lighter than a standard sleeping bag and tent. Dehydrated backpacking food can be a good choice when motorcycle camping, too. It’s much easier to haul around a week’s worth of meals when they are free of heavy, bulky water. Once you’ve figured out your entire packing list, work on distributing the weight around the bike, putting heavier items lower to the ground.

Consider some of these tips as you prepare for your first motorcycle camping trip! If you need accessories or maintenance for your motorcycle, stop by Woods Fun Center. We’re located in Austin, Texas and we proudly serve the areas of New Braunfels, Round Rock, and San Marcos, Texas!