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Nothing can compare to riding your bike into the wild and spending the night in nature. Motorcycles are far better for this than cars, although you might not be able to carry as much stuff.
For this reason, you should have the top motorcycle camping gear made specifically for these vehicles. Camping gear usually includes everything you might need on your adventure from sleeping bags, cookware, a pillow, and a few other things.
However, there are many options on the market, some of which include items you might find more useful than the rest.
Take a few minutes to discover the best camping gears and how to choose one using our buyer’s guide.
10 Highest Rated Motorcycle Camping Essentials for Your Checklist
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
IFORREST  | IFORREST Features: Highly durable polyester, waterproof design Dimensions: 77 x 26 x 1.5 inches | Check Price |
4Monster  | 4Monster Features: Natural plant dyes, compact carrying case included Dimensions: 24 x 48 inches | Check Price |
AOKIWO  | AOKIWO Features: Includes 47 survival pieces, durable, tactical bag Dimensions: 8 x 6.5 x 6 inches | Check Price |
REDCAMP  | REDCAMP Features: Lightweight and easy to carry, removable pillowcase Dimensions: 10 x 6 x 6 inches | Check Price |
Gold Armour  | Gold Armour Features: Mini stove included, 17 useful pieces Dimensions: 3.8 x 6.8 x 6.3 inches | Check Price |
MSR  | MSR Features: It handles freezing, lightweight and easy to carry Dimensions: 23 x 1.2 x 12.5 inches | Check Price |
TravelChair  | TravelChair Features: Integrated Velcro strap, lightweight design Dimensions: 12x14x20 | Check Price |
GEAR AID  | GEAR AID Features: USB charging cable included, three brightness settings Dimensions: 3.2 x 1 x 2.5 inches | Check Price |
Don’t Die In The Woods  | Don’t Die In The Woods Features: Nylon carrying cases included, warm enough to use during cold nights Dimensions: 5 x 7 inches | Check Price |
FROGG TOGGS  | FROGG TOGGS Features: Comfortable and breathable, adjustable points Dimensions: L - XL | Check Price |
IFORREST – Sleeping Pad
IFORREST sleeping pad is one of the best options if you’re planning to spend the night outside. It measures 77’’x26’’x1.4’’ in total and is suitable for all weather conditions.
This is a self-inflating pad made of 70D polyester. It’s suitable for all terrains, even wet and rough ground and other extreme conditions.
It includes built-in armrests along with an adjustable pillow for some added support and comfort. You can use it to sleep in a tent, sleeping bag, hammock, or on a cot.
The best thing about it is that it’s quite lightweight. You won’t have any problems carrying it on your bike or around the camping location regardless of whether it’s inflated or not.
Keep in mind that the polyester is waterproof and comfortable. It keeps you warm in cold weather and cool when it’s hot.
PROS
- Highly durable polyester
- Waterproof design
- Built-in pillow and armrests
CONS
- A bit narrow for most people
4Monster – Towel
While most people remember to bring sleeping bags and water bottles, many forget to bring cloths and towels. If that’s usually the case with you, we suggest you check this 4Monster towel.
It comes in a unique EVA carrying case that’s compact and easy to carry around. Plus, it’s quite attractive, so it’s unlikely you’ll forget to bring it along.
The towel itself is made from polyester. It’s soft and smooth, so it’s comfortable to use at all times. It’s lightweight and suitable for people with sensitive skin.
This one is quite absorbent and takes very little to dry out in the air. This is ideal for camping because it allows you to reuse it in a short time.
Another thing worth noting is that the towel features no chemical dyes or toxins.
PROS
- Several sizes available
- Natural plant dyes
- Compact carrying case included
CONS
- Not as absorbent as regular towels
AOKIWO – Survival Kit
AOKIWO survival kit has everything you might need when out camping. It’s customized by U.S. military veterans, including 28 emergency survival pieces, 16 medical supplies, 10 fishing tools, and a 4-in-1 Molle EMT pouch.
It includes wire saw, compass, tactical folding knife, emergency blanket, a fire starter, a pen, tactical defense whistle, folding pliers, saber card, flashlight, carabiner, a bottle clip, and several other things.
The first-aid supplies included are approved and safe to use. These allow you to treat wounds and other emergencies with ease.
It all comes in an EMT bag that’s made of military-grade 1000D nylon. It’s durable and portable, but also water-resistant and able to withstand rough and frequent use.
The bag measures 8×6.5×6 inches in total, offering several compartments for all the equipment. If you are looking for a motorcycle tool kit, click here for one that is easy to transport.
PROS
- Includes 47 survival pieces
- Approved First Aid kit included
- Durable, tactical bag
CONS
- Some items are a bit flimsy
REDCAMP – Pillow
Many people often forget to bring a pillow or think they won’t need one. However, having one makes all the difference, especially if it’s specifically made for camping.
This one features a flannel shell along with non-woven fabric and 250g of hollow fiber inside. It’s comfortable and ensures you have a better sleep when spending nights in nature.
It weighs only 0.70 pounds, which means you probably won’t have any issues carrying it around. You can easily pack it in your backpack using the storage bag it comes with.
It’s important to note that the pillowcase is removable. This allows you to wash and change it whenever you want.
The case is easy to wash in a washing machine while the pillow should only be vented in the air. Don’t wash or tumble-dry it.
PROS
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable pillowcase
- Full-coverage zipper system
CONS
- Somewhat lightly stuffed
Gold Armour – Cookware
Cookware is always important to have if you’re planning to stay outside for a few days. The last thing you want is to drag the stuff you use at home. Instead, get yourself camping cookware that’s specifically made for this purpose.
This set is built to last, featuring all the most critical pieces you might need during your adventure. It comes with an FDA-approved hard-anodized aluminum pot and a non-stick frying pan.
The set also includes a folding stainless steel spork – F spoon, fork, and a knife). It also comes with a mini stove that has Piezo ignition.
It’s a complete set, including everything you could need to cook some food while outside. Still, the best thing is that you can easily pack the entire kit onto your bike using the mesh bag it comes with.
PROS
- Mini stove included
- 17 useful pieces
- Easy to pack and carry
CONS
- Some pieces might be tricky to clean
MSR – Water Reservoir
This MSR water reservoir is among the most useful things you could bring along. It’s ideal for keeping freshwater, while it’s also easy to use and convenient to carry around.
The reservoir is collapsible, allowing you to pack it in pretty much any bag or backpack. It measures 12.5×23 inches and can hold some 10 liters of water. Also, it weighs only 10 ounces when empty.
This one is laminated with an improved BPA-free lining that’s safe to use. Your water won’t change color or taste regardless of how long you keep it inside.
Another thing we should mention is that you can freeze water in it as well. It features tough 1,000-Denier exteriors that allow freezing without breaking.
Keep in mind that other sizes are available as well, although this is the biggest model.
PROS
- It handles freezing
- Food-grade lining
- Lightweight and easy to carry
CONS
- The cap isn’t tied to the bottle
TravelChair – Compact
A quality chair is one of the most important pieces of camping equipment. You’ll probably spend lots of time on it, which is why it should be quality-made and comfortable.
TravelChair is one of the best options as it’s strong but lightweight. It’s made with Nailhead fabric along with 600D Ripstop polyester for some added resistance and durability.
The frame is equally as durable and reliable. It can handle up to 275 pounds, although it weighs only 2.2 pounds in total. As such, it’s easy to carry around simply tied in the back of your motorcycle.
One of the best things about this one is that it folds into a compact size. It rolls up like a newspaper, which means you can easily carry it in your car, camper, motorcycle, and any other vehicle.
PROS
- Integrated Velcro strap
- Folds into a compact shape
- Lightweight design
CONS
- For solid surface only
GEAR AID – Rechargeable Light
GEAR AID provides light in the woods where you don’t have typical light sources. It eliminates the need for flashlights or using your phone as a light when camping.
This one is powered by a built-in 3,000 mAh Li-ion battery. It has 5 LEDs, offering up to 25 hours of illumination with 160 lumens. You can dim it to 25 lumens or use the SOS feature in case you find yourself in a crisis.
The light comes with an adjustable stand. It has a USB charging cable, along with a rubber hook, so that you can place it anywhere in your camp.
Also, it’s ideal for carrying it as well. It’s smaller than most wallets, which allows you to pack it anywhere in your bag or even a pocket.
PROS
- Lightweight and compact (4oz)
- Three brightness settings
- USB charging cable included
CONS
- Might be a bit too small for some people
Don’t Die In The Woods – Blanket
Once you get a sleeping pad and pillow, you should also get yourself a blanket. Nights in the woods can be very cold, even during summer. For this reason, you should check this 4pcs kit.
The package includes four blankets, all packed in convenient carrying bags. Each blanket measures 5×7 feet and is double-sided.
Also, each can roll into a compact size so that you can fit them into nylon sacks included. Plus, these are pretty lightweight, weighing only 2oz each.
These are designed for outdoors. They’re larger than standard foil blankets and are very warm to use in variable weather.
As we said, they pack into compact sizes. This allows you to carry them around at all times, packing them in your backpack or anywhere else you have some room.
PROS
- Nylon carrying cases included
- Warm enough to use during cold nights
- Compact when packed
CONS
- They tear somewhat easily
FROGG TOGGS – Rain Suit
A rain suit is another one of the vital pieces of equipment you should bring along. Many people don’t, especially if the weather is favorable. However, a quality rain suit doesn’t take up much space and is always handy to have near.
FROGG TOGGS is a durable and quality-made suit that’s waterproof and made to last a long time. It includes a jacket and pants that are breathable and lightweight.
The non-woven fabric allows enough airflow without letting any moisture through. It’s comfortable to wear for hours on end, especially during excessive rain showers.
The jacket has an adjustable hood that you can remove with ease. It’s a parka-cut, open-waist design that’s easy to use and comfortable.
On the other hand, the pants have adjustable leg openings and an elastic waist.
PROS
- Protective zipper flaps
- Adjustable points
- Comfortable and breathable
CONS
- Sizes run large
What to Look for When Finding a Supplies
Weight
Weight is one of the first things you should check when buying motorcycle camping equipment. The last thing you want is to carry heavy items around, especially since motorcycles already have limited storage.
This applies to whatever item you’re buying. It doesn’t matter whether you’re buying cookware or a rain suit, everything should be lightweight so that you can pack and carry it with ease.
Still, keep in mind that some items are naturally heavier than others. Also, materials also play a huge role since certain fabrics and materials are particularly heavy.
Portability
Portability is another key factor you should think about when looking for camping gear. It’s important because you want to carry these items with you with ease.
In most cases, it depends on the overall weight of the product. In other words, heavy items are always more challenging to carry around than those that are more lightweight.
Also, make sure to consider the design as well. Can you pack the items conveniently? Are they easy to carry on a motorcycle? Ask yourself these questions before making your final decision.
Luckily, most specifically-made equipment is portable enough.
Size
The size determines how portable and easy to use the item of your choice is. In most cases, you want to look for compact pieces that you can pack into any bag you’re carrying.
This goes for whatever gear you’re interested in. All of it should fit your needs and preferences, but also be small enough to carry.
Still, make sure that the items you’re going for aren’t too small either. In other words, a small chair might be compact to carry around, but it might also be uncomfortable to sit in.
The size should always fit your particular needs, and allow easy portability.
Purpose
As you noticed, there are many pieces you might need when spending some time outdoors. Some are more important than others, but that usually depends on your own needs and what you want to bring along.
For this reason, you should think about what you’ll need in advance. Sit down and make a little list of the items you’d find the most useful when camping.
For some people, that’s a sleeping bag and a pocket knife. For others, it’s a set of cookware and a pillow. Think about what you’d like to have at hand so that you can find items made for that purpose.
Pricing
Motorcycle camping gear can sometimes be quite pricey, depending on what exactly you’re looking for. However, the basic pieces that you need the most are affordable. This includes sleeping bags, pads, pillows, blankets, pocket knives, flashlights, and other similar items.
Things like large water reservoirs and cookware sets might be a bit pricey. Still, most motorcycle camping gear is reasonably priced.
As always, you can easily find affordable products as well as those that are more expensive. Make sure to have a pre-set budget in mind so that you can find something that fits within its limits.
Motorcycle Camping Essential List
Sleeping Bags
Sleeping bags are among the most critical things you should pack. It’s an essential piece unless you want to sleep on the ground.
However, it’s equally as important to buy a quality-made bag that can resist rough use and handle different terrain.
It should be warm, especially if you’re going to sleep on the ground. For this reason, look for soft and thick materials and make sure that it also has durable stitching and zippers.
Headlamp
A headlamp is one of the most favorite items campers like to have at hand. It makes all the difference if you’re hiking or doing some fine work in your camp.
Luckily, most camping survival kits come with at least one headlamp. If not, you can always purchase one, keeping in mind its durability, strength, and ease of use.
Again, consider your needs and preferences when looking for a headlamp. There are many different models on the market, so it’s just a matter of finding what fits you the best.
Tents
A tent is another piece of equipment you should always bring when camping. The type and size is something you should choose based on your preferences and needs.
Some tents are larger than others and are a good fit for a few people. Others are made for one to two people only.
Make sure that your tent is waterproof and made of durable materials. The last thing you want is for it to tear or leak in case it rains.
Pocket Stove
A pocket stove isn’t something many people bring to camping. Adventurous people like cooking their meals over the fire for a few days that they’re in the woods.
Still, having a pocket stove is much more convenient than trying to work with the inconsistency of your bonfire. Plus, a bonfire is sometimes too big to cook with.
A small camping stove is usually compact, lightweight, and affordable to buy. It’s easy to use, and you can choose between many different sizes.
Cookset
A cookset is often equally as important as a pocket stove. It’s not something you can’t do without, but it’s still quite convenient to have.
These sets are rather versatile and include all kinds of items. In most cases, you get pots, pans, dishes, bowls, forks, spoons, knives, and a few other similar pieces.
Some sets are larger and more versatile, depending on the number of people that will use it. Still, keep in mind that most items are smaller than regular cookware you use at home.
Water Storage
Water storage is something you should carefully think about before going on a trip. While you can just fill a few water bottles, having a water reservoir is always more convenient.
Water reservoirs are available in many sizes, allowing you to bring water for yourself or the entire camp. Naturally, smaller reservoirs are easier to carry, especially if your storage space is limited.
Make sure that the reservoir of your choice is durable and resistant. It should be enduring so that it doesn’t break in case you accidentally drop it.
Knife
Many people believe that a knife is the most critical piece of equipment you can have at hand when camping. You can use it for many things while at the camp. Having a knife can also provide some peace of mind in case you’re afraid of animals.
However, you can’t just carry your kitchen knife on your bike. Instead, you should buy a camping knife that’s typically packaged in a safety case.
Some knives are combined with forks and spoons as well.
Sleeping Pad
A sleeping pad is equally as important as a sleeping bag. However, most people usually choose one or the other, depending on what they find more comfortable.
Sleeping pads resemble inflatable mattresses. They’re usually thinner than that but quite comfortable to sleep on in your tent or sleeping bag.
Look for a sleeping pad that’s the right size to support all parts of your body. It should be thick and made of durable materials so that it can handle rough terrain.
Chair
Many people will agree that sitting on a chair is more comfortable than sitting on the ground. Not only chairs are warmer, but they’re also less tiring on the body.
However, carrying a chair on your motorcycle might be a bit tricky, especially if you already have a lot of equipment packed.
For this reason, make sure that your camping chair is foldable, compact, and lightweight. This way, you won’t have any issues attaching it to your bike.
Top Tips
Going camping with your motorcycle is fun and exciting, but packing might be a bit challenging. You should try compression packing using vacuum-sealed bags.
Also, make sure to pack your sleeping bag or pad, a chair, and a pillow and blanket. This will make all the difference when it comes to comfort.
Use luggage straps to attach everything on your bike, and consider using a cargo net as well. This way, all your cargo is safe and easy to carry.
Remember to bring mosquito repellents, a bike repair kit, and a survival kit as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to do minimalist motorcycle camping?
You don’t need much when going camping in the woods. In most cases, you can get away with some extra clothes, a few travel-sized toiletries, some snacks, a survival kit, and a small tent.
Everything else might not be as necessary, although that very much depends on your needs and preferences.
What’s the best motorcycle for camping?
Technically, you can use any motorcycle for camping. However, some bikes handle rough terrain better than others.
Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES, Kawasaki KLR 650, and KTM 390 Adventure are the three most popular bikes used by adventures and camping enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Having the right motorcycle camping gear can make your time in nature more comfortable and worry-free. Still, it’s up to you to choose which of these pieces is the most important for you to bring along.
As we said, motorcycles usually don’t have as much storage space, so make sure to use cargo nets and straps. Also, bring only the most important stuff you know you’ll use.
Take some time to make a list of things you’ll need. Consider the camping equipment we reviewed since these pieces are often considered the most essential to have at hand.
