There are few things that feel like ultimate freedom, but a motorcycle trip comes pretty close. Your helmet on, hand on the throttle, and the world at your feet. Amazing! Until you reach the border and realize you forgot your driver’s license. That’s just really annoying. That’s why: the packing list for your motorcycle trip. Super handy! From must-haves to “nice to have,” so you only have to think about the next curve.
Bags and other handy stuff
One of the best choices you can make before you hit the road? Good bags for your bike. Seriously, you’ll thank yourself later. Whether you go for saddlebags, a top case, a tank bag (super handy with a clear pocket for your phone or map), or all of them – if your gear is packed well and secure, you’ll ride more relaxed. What you definitely want to take with you:
- Saddlebags, tank bag and/or top case
- Waterproof bags or dry bags
- Rain cover for your bags
- Locks for your bags
Paperwork & other boring but super important stuff
Paperwork is the most important and luckily takes up the least space. Make sure you keep everything at the top of your tank bag so you can grab it easily when needed.
- Driver’s license (check, check, double check)
- Vehicle registration
- Insurance papers (green card)
- Passport or ID
- Reservations or route book (for the old school riders)
- European accident report form (hopefully you won’t need it)
- Health insurance card and possibly travel insurance
- Emergency numbers for your insurer / roadside assistance
- Wallet (including cash and your bank card!)
✅ Tip: Take photos of these documents and email them to yourself. Just in case.
Motorcycle gear
For us, it’s obvious — good motorcycle gear! Also, it’s very handy to be prepared for different weather conditions because you never know in Europe…
- Helmet (without bugs from the last ride, please)
- Motorcycle jacket and pants
- Rain suit (if your jacket and pants aren’t waterproof)
- Gloves
- Motorcycle boots
- Buff or balaclava
- Thermal underwear for chilly mornings (or to make that leather race suit easier to put on)
- Earplugs for motorcyclists
Tools & tech
You never know… a loose screw, a chain begging for attention, or suddenly a dead phone. That’s why: better to have a little too much than too little. Especially if you ride solo. Going with a group? Make some smart agreements. Nobody wants ten cans of chain spray and three identical tire repair kits.
- Phone charger
- Navigation or phone with route app
- Spare keys (not attached to your regular key!)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Disc lock
- Multitool
- Small tool kit
- Mini compressor (we swear by the Xiaomi one!)
- Tire repair kit
- Duct tape
- Super glue
- Zip ties
Clothes and other stuff for after the ride
As awesome as it is to ride for hours in your motorcycle gear, sooner or later you park your bike and get off. To a terrace, a restaurant, a cozy campsite, or just your bed after a long day full of curves and adventure. And then you definitely want to wear something other than your sweaty thermal shirt and heavy boots.
- Underwear and socks (you know how many)
- T-shirts / long sleeves
- Shorts or comfortable pants
- Sweater or jacket
- Sunglasses
- Sleepwear
- Quick-dry towel
- Toiletry bag with basics
- Small foldable backpack
- First aid kit
For campers
Going camping? Then you need to bring some extra stuff to make yourself comfortable! You definitely don’t want to wake up with a sore back on a damp surface after a long day of riding… Comfort is key!
- Lightweight tent
- Sleeping mat and sleeping bag
- Cooking set (for a cup of coffee)
- Light source (headlamp or camping lamp)
- Lightweight chair
- Matches / lighter
- Cutlery, mug & plate
Smart extras that make a difference
Every motorcycle trip is different, and what you find indispensable, someone else might leave at home. But there are those little things that make your trip just a bit more relaxed, organized, or simply more fun. Not must-haves, but definitely highly recommended!
Throw these extras on your motorcycle packing list:
- Power bank
- Snacks (bars, nuts, guilty pleasure cookies)
- Collapsible water bottle
- Clothesline with clips
- Action camera (a cool Insta 360 to capture your cowboy adventures)
- Toilet paper
Ready to ride?
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or doing a longer trip for the first time — good preparation makes everything more fun (and more relaxed). With this packing list for your motorcycle trip, you’re set. Check, tick off, and go!
And remember: pack light. Not just for your own convenience, but also for your bike — saves some fuel 😉 That way you keep it smooth, fast, and most importantly: fun. Safe miles and enjoy the ride! 🏍️💨
