Motorcycle Camping

You might think it doesn’t get much better than the rumble of your motorcycle on the wide open road. If you enjoy the thrill of riding your bike for a lengthy touring adventure, we suggest you try motorcycle camping. After a long day of cruising the streets, you’re probably ready to kick off your boots and unwind. Motorcycle camping is an excellent way to take your riding adventures to the next level.

If you’re new to the idea of motorcycle camping, don’t worry. Mid-State Motorsports has put together some tips that first-timers will find especially helpful. Give us a call or stop by our dealership in Cookeville, Tennessee near Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga to learn more! We also proudly serve all of Tennessee and Kentucky.

Plan Ahead

We know that short rides from point A to point B don’t require much planning but you’ll definitely want to carve out some time to plan for a motorcycle camping trip. Whether you’re a novice or a veteran, you’ll find that motorcycle camping is an investment of both time and money. Start the planning process by making a list of attractions you want to visit on your trip. It’s also a good idea to reserve campsites near your planned destinations. You can even manage to save a few extra bucks by booking ahead of time.

It’s also important to consider the weather when you’re planning a motorcycle camping trip. You don’t want the trouble of dealing with poor weather conditions when you’re out on the road. Follow the forecast closely before and during your trip as the conditions can change without notice. Avoid riding through areas that are expecting snow or thunderstorms. If you’ll be riding on extra hot days, try not to ride in the mid-afternoon when it’s the hottest outside.

Pack Wisely

Packing for a motorcycle camping trip is a little different than what you might be used to. In this situation, you need to pack the bare minimum. The last thing you want is to add unnecessary weight to your motorcycle. Bring only what you need such as shelter, clothing, medication, food and water, toiletries, and supplies for building a fire. Also keep in mind that for many of these items, you can easily find a travel size version that’ll save space and weight. Try to find a lightweight sleeping bag and tent so you won’t have to worry about heavy, bulky items.

Storage Options

You’re going to need a place to store all the items you’ll be packing. Many motorcycles come with storage options, like saddlebags or a cargo rack. If you need additional space, you can purchase a storage upgrade so you’ll be able to fit everything. Riders are often drawn to leather cargo bags due to their sleek, vintage look. Remember, though, that these bags require diligent maintenance. Road salt, rain, and other debris can easily damage them. You can also use dry bags, which are fully waterproof so you can protect valuables such as your cell phone and other electronics while riding through a passing shower.

Where to Camp

When you’re planning your trip, you’ll find that there are several campsites available to motorcyclists. Make sure your intended site is motorcycle friendly because some are not. Think about the amenities you’ll need like water, electricity, and so on. Once you know what you need, it’ll be easier to narrow down your options when choosing campsites.

Upon arrival to the site, you’ll want to be a bit picky about where you set up camp. Seek out level ground so you’ll have a restful night of sleep. You shouldn’t venture too far on the outskirts of the area because you run the risk of an animal encounter. Don’t be too close to the main action, either, because you might struggle to sleep with all the noise and activity.

Motorcycle Care

Your motorcycle is probably one of your most prized possessions, so you need to take proper care of it when camping. Lock your bike up at night so it’s securely protected from any thieves. Bring rain protection so you can avoid damage to your bike as it sits out overnight and is exposed to the elements. Be sure you have enough fluids so you don’t end up stranded on the side of the road.

Before you head out for your journey, visit Mid-State Motorsports for any maintenance or repairs. We’re conveniently located in Cookeville, Tennessee near Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga! We also proudly serve all of Tennessee and Kentucky.