The Moto-Camping Multivitamin

Motorcycling, like many pursuits, splits into many subcultures. Each has its own rituals, practices and gear preferences. Across these groups, there is a common thread that builds shared understanding. It is the same thread that sparks a two-finger wave or a nod to a fellow rider.

I want to highlight a theme I keep seeing in motorcycling: minimalism. One reason to throw a leg over the bike is the simple nature of the ride. That logic pushes riders to go out in any weather, be it hot, cold or rainy, much like the pull of a camping adventure.

A motorcyclist knows the value of windshield wipers and does not take them for granted. A rider knows the comfort of climate control, heated seats and air fresheners yet chooses to go without them. This may be why camping is common among motorcyclists. The outdoors and its challenges match the same drive that makes us ride and few things capture that spirit like a camping adventure.

Enter The Moto-Camping Phenomenon

I first felt the challenge and reward of moto camping on a ride with my father-in-law from Arlington, Virginia, to Wyoming. Figuring out what we needed was hard but it was a rewarding planning exercise. At the time, I rode a BMW R12000C cruiser and packed enough gear to get three-quarters of the way across the country on a camping adventure.

Since that trip, moto camping has become a rite of passage and a release from work and city stress. My wife and I often pack on a Thursday or Friday night, laying out gear for each bike on the kitchen floor before loading up. Each bike is loaded like a mechanical mule, tied down with cargo nets and bungee cords. We even enjoy the packing process, as engineers tend to do, especially when we're gearing up for a camping adventure.

In concert with many of these suggested items, Here's some typical stock that we bring along ...

Accommodations:

two-person, three-season tent (with fly and tarp)
collapsible chairs (x2)
sleeping pads (x2)
sleeping bags (x2 and temperature appropriate)
camping pillows (x2)
two-person hammock (+slap straps)

Cooking Supplies:

metal grate
JetBoil
lighter
flame starter material
cooking pan
mess kit (made for 2 people)
wine glasses (x2)

Hardware:

knife (get a good one)
multi-tool
lantern
headlamp
rope

Foodstuff:

dehydrated food pack
black beans
spices
couscous & chopped almonds
pistachios
box wine (perfect for panniers)
instant coffee
flask (whiskey)

Since I ride both with my wife and solo, the two-person tent is perfect. When she comes along, it fits both of us and our gear goes in the vestibule. When I am alone, there is plenty of room for my gear in the tent.

Sleeping pads are important for insulation from the ground. Even in summer, mountain ground can be cold and the air gap helps cushion uneven ground. Pillows feel like a luxury but they pack small.

The hammock is a bonus. A two-person hammock can pack down to softball size and makes a great nap spot after a long ride. Some even double as a tent rain fly.

We always bring our collapsible chairs. They make the best part of camping, sitting around the fire, far more enjoyable. The chairs are worth the cost and the space on any camping adventure.

You need a good knife. That lesson is not just for camping. It is a lesson for life. If there is one item to spend extra on, make it your knife. Buy a good one and take care of it.

Lighting and rope are essential. You do not need much rope but it will come in handy. I first carried rope to hang gear because of bears and I have found many other uses since.

Staying with the minimalist theme, we keep our food simple. Black beans or chili with couscous and slivered almonds is a good option. They pack well and cook easily.

We also bring "just add water" instant meals from the local backpacking store. Watch these, though, as they often have a very high calorie count. If you are not hiking or climbing on the trip, they can be overkill, while pistachios are a simple staple.

I am an early riser and usually have a granola bar and a coffee or two before others wake up. For coffee, I use my JetBoil and a Starbucks Via pack. The JetBoil has a French press but Via tastes good and is more convenient than ground coffee.

Where To Go?

Finding a good destination is part of the adventure. In the mid-Atlantic, we have the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley and the Potomac, Rappahannock and Rapidan rivers. The Chesapeake Bay is not far by bike for a camping adventure.

We are lucky to have many options for weekend trips. No matter where you start, the ride and the campfire are what it is about. Pick a destination that gives you return options, like a favorite hidden lunch spot, a farmers market or an antique shop. Even better, plan your ride around a motorcycle event, show or club meeting. A little planning and a quick Google search can turn any weekend into an adventure.

What more do you need in life? Motorcycle camping is a spirited ride, fresh air, nature, relaxation and an evening with friends around a fire. Park your motorcycle nearby so the flames reflect off it and remind you why you ride during a camping adventure.

What Are Some Of Your Favorite Motorcycle Camping Destinations?

There are many camper-friendly motorcycle routes out there. Which have you ridden? What do you like about them and why? Your input is invited. Leave a comment and/or write an article!