Moto-Camping Lessons Learned?

[motospeed9058]

The last time I went moto camping, I had several lessons learned.
-4 man tent, TOO BIG!!! and too bulky!!!   Fixed, picked up a 2 man backpack tent  

-The ground, while grass, is still hard.    Fixed, picked up a self inflating sleeping pad  

-hhhmmmm, it's 11pm and I've got the munchies and this beer is not doing the trick.  Now what?  Fixed, picked up some protein type snack bars to throw in the luggage.  

-No need for a latern AND a flashlight, just takes up space and weight that could be used elsewhere. Fixed, pick one and go!  

This is just a couple of things.  Now that I'm planning my next trip, what are some of your pitfalls that you have experienced so that i can avoid the same?  

Thanks in advance!

 

[expatbrit]

Bring a headlamp. Incredibly, incredibly useful.

Have a warm enough sleeping bag; a liner may help with this.

Can't second enough the 'have a good, comfy, sleeping mat'. Big Agnes for me, integrated with the bag.

[bomber]

ear plugs.


Really.

Some campgrounds are unlabelled extensions of fraternity houses, and Garth will party on all night ;-}

[bluepoof]

In addition to what's already been mentioned:

* Baby wipes can be napkins, toilet paper, kleenex, face wipes, paper towels, ...... I keep a few in my toiletries bag and they're always a godsend.

* Silk PJs (I use silk long pants and a silk tank top) are a bazillion times better than cotton.  Warmer in cold weather and cooler in summer. Plus they pack down to nearly nothing.

* For cooking while camping:  JetBoil + www.trailcooking.com. Every recipe I've used from them has been tasty, easy to make with just the JetBoil, and the ingredients are easy to bring along in a saddlebag.

* Firestarters are love.  I make mine by packing sawdust into a cardboard egg carton and melting a candle over the whole thing.  Each firestarter takes up very little space and will start a great fire even if it's windy or slightly damp.

* This one is only for the girls, but I recommend a Freshette to every woman camper.  No need to be jealous anymore that the guys can just pee out of the tent at 3am instead of having to bundle up to trudge down the path to the restroom.

* If you get cold easily (I do!), I love Patagonia's down sweater jackets (this is the one I have, but they have men's versions as well).  With a base layer, it cuts out almost all of the wind, keeps me warm, AND it packs down really small in the luggage.

Also, a huge +1 to having a good sleeping pad.  I just got an Exped 9 downmat and, alone, it was just as comfortable as my previous combination of a LuxuryLite cot + 3" Thermarest.    

[Hodge Podge]

1. Establishing a system for packing the bike takes some trial and error. Pay attention to what you use the most and what you don't use, so you can pack frequently needed items where they are accessible and trim unused items from future trips.
2. Pack by category to minimize time searching for what you need--tent and camp gear in one bag, clothes in one bag, "on-bike" items like tools and rain gear in one bag
3. Once you settle on a "system" for packing, pack/load everything in the same order every time you break camp--helps to prevent losing or misplacing gear, since the process of packing is a built-in double check.
4. GIVI cases are as good at keeping liquids in as keeping rain out--they make a real handy improvised cooler.
5. Raccoons will sneak up to within 3' of you to take your dinner, if you're not paying attention.

[MK96xj]

ear plugs.

+1 An absolute if a good night sleep is in order.

- Good ground cloth for tent.
- On those protien bars. Don't be lazy after munching on them. Throw them out far from your tent. Ants have an increadable way of getting to anything. 3am is not the time to wake to their games
- A headlamp. Something that should alway keep on the bike in the tool kit.

[motospeed9058]

What about waterproofing while in transit.  Didn't have to worry about this the first time out, but I'm sure, now that I've said that, the next trip will be through the bottom of the Mississippi if you catch my drift.

Do you put stuff that would be strapped to the seat in one waterproof "something,"  or does each piece go in it's own waterproof "something".  

And what is that "something"?  I'm not so worried if it's a trash bag, but I'd like something a little more sturdy, so suggestions welcome.  Thanks.

[Hodge Podge]

I have waterproof hard cases, so most stuff is already addressed. For tankbag items, I picked up a couple small (<1L) laminated nylon drybags--often used for kayaking and rafting--at REI. I keep my wallet, cell phone, and camera in one, and anything else that needs to be kept dry (papers, etc) in the other. No need to waterproof my rain gear, water bottle, or Clif bars, so those stay loose in the tankbag.  

If you use a trash bag or Zip-Lock as the waterproof barrier, I recommend  it go inside a soft case/hard case/tank bag. That way, the durable bag contains everything, and all the water barrier has to do is keep stuff dry. Plastic bags rip pretty easily in sustained wind.

[Justin]

Nalgene bottle marked with a big X to avoid confusion. This is to be used for a pee bottle so you don't have to get out of the tent in the middle of the night after drinking your beer.

[expatbrit]

Anything (that I care about getting wet) not in the hardcases (e.g. 'the tent') goes in a drybag. The drybag gets strapped to the seat, if required.

[motospeed9058]

I have waterproof hard cases, so most stuff is already addressed.

Very True!  I'm on a Concours, so 2 side bags (not necessarily always waterproof) and a givi trunk which hasn't let me down yet.  However, i was contemplating strapping the tent, sleeping bag/pad, and a sports chair to the seat in front of the trunk.  Yes/No?  Any suggestions?

Also, as a side note, I just realized that I hadn't looked at Carolyns (bluepoof) website in quite sometime.  Great job with that, it is also a HUGE help.  Thanks.

[motospeed9058]

Anything (that I care about getting wet) not in the hardcases (e.g. 'the tent') goes in a drybag. The drybag gets strapped to the seat, if required.

What kind of dry bag do you use?  various sizes?

[Mr Sunshine]

I learned to bring my credit card and skip the camping bit. 

[Justin]

What kind of dry bag do you use?  various sizes?

I use a 30 Liter dry bag from REI. Big enough for my bed roll (pad, sleeping bag, etc)

[expatbrit]

What kind of dry bag do you use?  various sizes?

Yeah. I have a bunch; some Sea 2 Summit eVent, some Stoic, even a gigantic Outdoor Research one. Even inside the hardcases, I tend to pack in drybags (but use them as compression sacks so I have more space and just in case something happens). The smaller the better, IMO.

[Mrs. DantesDame]

* Firestarters are love.  I make mine by packing sawdust into a cardboard egg carton and melting a candle over the whole thing.  Each firestarter takes up very little space and will start a great fire even if it's windy or slightly damp.

Ooo - that's a good idea.  

[bomber]

What about waterproofing while in transit.  Didn't have to worry about this the first time out, but I'm sure, now that I've said that, the next trip will be through the bottom of the Mississippi if you catch my drift.

Do you put stuff that would be strapped to the seat in one waterproof "something,"  or does each piece go in it's own waterproof "something".  

And what is that "something"?  I'm not so worried if it's a trash bag, but I'd like something a little more sturdy, so suggestions welcome.  Thanks.

Figure out a way to segregate that that WILL be damp (ground cloth, rain fly, for instance) from stuff you want to keep dry (sleeping bag, tomorrow's socks, and pack that way . . .this may mean you have a couple-three bags . . . . . . . .

Me, I'd skip the chair the first couple of times out -- my rule of thumb is to NOT bring/purchase anything optional until I unconsciously reach for it three times. It's easy to wind up looking like somthing outa the Grapes of Wrath, and having stuff you don't need falling from the back of the bike at speed.

[1KPerDay]

My motocamping lesson: a good cheap motel beats just about any campground if you want to sleep.

[motospeed9058]

...my rule of thumb is to NOT bring/purchase anything optional until I unconsciously reach for it three times. It's easy to wind up looking like somthing outa the Grapes of Wrath, and having stuff you don't need falling from the back of the bike at speed.

Good point!!  

My motocamping lesson: a good cheap motel beats just about any campground if you want to sleep.

I like to learn things the hard way.  Glutton for punishment I guess.  

[bluepoof]

Also, as a side note, I just realized that I hadn't looked at Carolyns (bluepoof) website in quite sometime.  Great job with that, it is also a HUGE help.  Thanks.

Aww!  

[jeepinbanditrider]

Sleeping pad, you don't have to spend big bucks to get a good one.  I've got a 25 dollar one from Academy from their house brand Magellan and it's the most comftrable sleeping pad I've ever slept on, the 75ish dollar Thermarest I used to have now belongs to my dad.  During the cooler months I don't even bother with a tent unless I'm going to be in one spot for more than one night.  I just do a sleeping pad with sleeping bag/bivy sack.  Easy 10 minute setup/tear down.  

A headlamp is a god send.  You need both hands whent the sun goes down and holding a small flashlight in your mouth while performing camp setup is a PITA.

Babywipes can also be used as a shower if you are somewhere camping where there is no facilities such as some spots in Big Bend  

If you think you really need it you probably don't.  I've found that if you are new to moto camping to make a few "dry runs" to local camping areas to find out what you use and don't use and trim out your load.  I've got to where i have nearly my whole top case free except for my netbook for other stuff I may want to buy while on the road.

[Bad Dad]

Make sure to stock up on beer/liqour if your travelling in dry county states, or Canada

[Corbeau]

I don't cook when I camp, yet I still need my morning jolt of caffeine. Solution? Buy a can of Red Bull at your last stop and keep it for the morning.

BTW, what I love about moto-camping I that it almost guarantees an early start for the day's ride.

[lionlady]

I use a 25 liter SeaLine dry bag for my sleeping bag, sleeping pad (Thermarest), and an extra sweater/fleece layer. Roll up the sleeping pad and put it in the drybag, then wind it open inside the drybag, making a hole in the center and stuff the sleeping bag in, followed by the sweater.

The tent, rainfly, and potentially wet/dirty stuff goes in a separate canvas bag. I've got an original Helen2Wheels string close bag.

Thermarest makes a self inflating cushion that's great for picnic tables and logs, which get darn hard on the backside over the course of a weekend. Takes up less space than a chair.

+1 on the Jetboil. I recommend bringing an extra cup, so you don't have to finish your coffee before you can make the oatmeal. Or vice versa.

P

[zer0netgain]

Hotels are a better bargain in the long run.  

Just being cynical.  Don't mind camping, but with allergy problems and not finding an easy way to pack something to sleep in that lets me get a decent night's sleep, I found it easier to just shop about for cheap places to stay during my trip planning.

[motospeed9058]

+1 on the Jetboil. I recommend bringing an extra cup, so you don't have to finish your coffee before you can make the oatmeal. Or vice versa.

So I was looking into one of these Jetboil dohickey's.......how many uses do you get out of one of the fuel cans?  Is it just for water or can you use it for other things too?

[Mr Sunshine]

Really all of these lessons were learned by backpackers for years. Go read forums for backpackers and you'll be set.

[vulcanbill]

So I was looking into one of these Jetboil dohickey's.......how many uses do you get out of one of the fuel cans?  Is it just for water or can you use it for other things too?

Unless you're just dying to spend money, don't buy this stuff yet.  We have all the kitchen (MSR Pocket Rocket and titanium cup/spork) and some of the other stuff that you'll need, like compression sacks, mini bungees etc...  Come raid our inventory before buying.  If you can't live without it, buy your own.    

[tjhess74]

the biggest lesson i learned was to stop overpacking!  

for food, ive found it to be much simpler to bring mre's.  many of them are quite delicious these days and have a full course meal + dessert and drink.  another plus is that they contain a heater so all you need is water.  saves on space for cookers, utensils, food, etc.

keep it simple..tent, .sleeping bag, roll, pee bottle, beer, water, bug spray, light, and some food/snacks.

yall making me want to go moto camping!!!

[satxbonneville]

http://www.hotels.com

[RangerG]

Make sure to stock up on beer/liqour if your travelling in dry county states, or Canada

Last time I checked, we still sell booze in Canada.  We just charge more money for it!

[richak]

Small compression stuff sacks. It is amazing how much you can cram in them.

[Pfloydgad]

Tylenol PM, Monster Energy drinks, Peanut M &M's (I'm Diabetic), Water, Dry cereal like rice, corn or wheat chex, a great quick snack that will allow some riding before stopping. All the above fits in a tank bag or a small duffle in the trunk.
Ride safe all.
Greg

[Bad Dad]

Last time I checked, we still sell booze in Canada.  We just charge more money for it!

...........It was more about finding a Beer store or finding it closed at 5 on a Sunday....I'm from Wisconsin and I'm often surprised at the lack of beer in other parts of the country

[Giaka]

http://www.hotels.com

FYI staying in a hotel is not camping. You are in the wrong thread, please leave.  

[2Pokey]

Pay attention to where you set up.
Standing water or low lying areas = mosquitoes or black flies depending on the season.
Sites with tree cover prevent dew on your tent or rainfly.
Pine forests make for comfy beds but sticky tents.
Open sites come with sunrise wakeup calls (great if your a morning person). They also come with dew.
State/Provincial parks have pretty strict noise rules compared to KOAs and privately owned camps.
Bring a cup for "dry" parks.
Get a room every couple of nights to energize.
At the end of the day, take the money you save camping and go find the best restaurant you can (provided they let you in dressed as a vagabond).

[Cheddarhead]

* For cooking while camping:  JetBoil + www.trailcooking.com. Every recipe I've used from them has been tasty, easy to make with just the JetBoil, and the ingredients are easy to bring along in a saddlebag.

* Firestarters are love.  I make mine by packing sawdust into a cardboard egg carton and melting a candle over the whole thing.  Each firestarter takes up very little space and will start a great fire even if it's windy or slightly damp.

+1.
Add a small "french press' and you'll be camping in style, with a proper cuppa mornin' coffee!

Firestarters:  Take dryer lint.  Add Vaseline and work it into the lint until the fibers are well-coated.  Pack into a 35mm film container or two.  Extract a pinch or two of the impregnated lint to use as a fire starter.  If you're frugal / it's not too windy you can go for a week on a single film containers' worth of fuel.

[Mastros2]

Sleeping with earplugs does take a bit to get adjusted to.  Try it at home first a few times.  Also, a light over-the-counter sleep aid works wonders.  I recommed SleepMD.

I also bring a drybag for my sleeping bag (down) and other stuff.  Also, try to bring a chair.  I had enough room on the backseat for a travel fold up chair.  

[motospeed9058]

Firestarters:  Take dryer lint.  Add Vaseline and work it into the lint until the fibers are well-coated.  Pack into a 35mm film container or two.  Extract a pinch or two of the impregnated lint to use as a fire starter.  If you're frugal / it's not too windy you can go for a week on a single film containers' worth of fuel.

Now that's a different one.  I've heard of the sawdust and candlewax (never used, but heard of it).  This is the first (even during my military days) that i've heard of this one.  Thanks.  

[Mrs. DantesDame]

Now that's a different one.  I've heard of the sawdust and candlewax (never used, but heard of it).  This is the first (even during my military days) that i've heard of this one.  Thanks.  

Same here  


I'm predicting a few small fires coming up soon  

[sammyseaman]

+1.
Add a small "french press' and you'll be camping in style, with a proper cuppa mornin' coffee!

Firestarters:  Take dryer lint.  Add Vaseline and work it into the lint until the fibers are well-coated.  Pack into a 35mm film container or two.  Extract a pinch or two of the impregnated lint to use as a fire starter.  If you're frugal / it's not too windy you can go for a week on a single film containers' worth of fuel.

  I will have to try this.

[bomber]

Drier lint -- hmmmmmmmmmm

I can say, through independant verification, that cottonwood seeds burn quick nicely -- wait til there's a bunch lined up on teh edge of the sidewalk (like a small snowdrift in June), and light one end.

POOF!

Also, non-dairy coffee creamer . . .

Likely a different thread.

[Cheddarhead]

1.  Camp downwind from wherever DavidLSI is cooking (..or braising...or smoking...or...)

2.  Eat whatever he's grillin'!

[jeepinbanditrider]

The dryer lint thing is great, because...........who doesn't have excess dryer lint.  I mean in a week I could probably make a trash can sized thing of fire starter  

[jpaul]

For firestarters, I like to use matchlight charcoal. Buy a small bag to cook dinner with, then just add wood when you're done cooking. It's the easiest way for weekend camping. For more extended camping, I have a magnesium firestarter that will outlast me. Just shave off enough small pieces to get a fire started, and use a knife on the  striker bar that came with it to spark the fire.  I've also used firestarters that are made from the same material as artificial logs. They were about 1"x3"x1/2", with one end covered in a strike anywhere match head.

I prefer a dual fuel stove that can use unleaded gas for making morning coffee. Then the 1 quart fuel bottle can double as an emergency fuel ration if you run out of gas a few miles short of a station.

[tomek]

Fire starter ? It`s easy , WD40 ( or walmart lubricant ) will do ( you can also use them as a "flame thrower "   ) . It has never fail me .

No WD40  ? Most of chain lubes will do , although they are too expensive for this purpose in the long run ,,,,,,,, and there is always gasoline ,,,,,,,, plenty of that on the bike ,,,,,

Real sport-touring bikes have chains , so I assume everyone participating in this discussion carries chain lube/WD40 on longer trip ,,,,,,,,  

[Mr Sunshine]

Now that's a different one.  I've heard of the sawdust and candlewax (never used, but heard of it).  This is the first (even during my military days) that i've heard of this one.  Thanks. 

I learned that one in Boy Scouts.  We were pyros.

[satxbonneville]

FYI staying in a hotel is not camping. You are in the wrong thread, please leave.  

I've stayed in motels where, comparatively, camping would have been an upgrade.

[motospeed9058]

I've stayed in motels where, comparatively, camping would have been an upgrade.

LOL, i'm pretty sure we have all had that happen on occassion.  

[Justin]

I've stayed in motels where, comparatively, camping would have been an upgrade.

Yes .. at least camping you are dealing with "natural dirt", with scummy motels you are dealing with "human filth"  

[duoderf]

-fire is a mans best friend, the only entertainment you need
-bring straps to carry the fire wood
-a good sleeping pad makes the night go by real fast
-a flat spot to sleep on is a must
-hammock camping is pretty cool, takes some getting used to
-take a small lamp, an LED flashlight, and a clip flashlight for a baseball cap, all three serve different purposes and are equally important
-keep a sharp knife handy
-if camping isnt your thing, then you better get a motel

[Poustman]

BTW, what I love about moto-camping I that it almost guarantees an early start for the day's ride.

A good point in the 'for' column!

[jsanford]

Bungee net.  

Once when Grant and I went camping, we forgot matches for the stove, so hit up the little Mom & Pop market on the (small, small) island where we were camping.  Thanks to the bungee, we simply tied up the plastic grocery bags and mounted them on the pillion seat.  Givi was for beer, of course.

I actually own a camping espresso maker--I can make Americanos for drip-coffee drinkers, and my cappucinos, using a can of evaporated milk (no chilling required).

We use Army surplus mess kits for dishes--and after the aforementioned trip, I put a box of matches in the little plastic cup at reassembly after I clean them at home.

Sidestand pucks, or something that can stand in.  Last year we went camping at a park where the town was holding Project Graduation for the high school seniors, and the the ranger actually told us to park our bikes at the campsite (down a narrow footpath and decidedly against usual policies), instead of in the car space by the road.

In a pinch, we've stashed gear underneath the picnic table at a camping spot to keep it dry.

We sleep on RidgeRests--sort of a styrofoam Thermarest.  By design, they're waterproof.

Skip the plastic tent pegs; just use metal ones.

[Jet Jock]

Always have a beer bottle opener!

[Mr Sunshine]

A good point in the 'for' column!

This morning it was 31degrees when the sun came up. There was a trace of snow on everything.

Reason not to motocamp is getting up early.

[Oddball]

...........It was more about finding a Beer store or finding it closed at 5 on a Sunday....I'm from Wisconsin and I'm often surprised at the lack of beer in other parts of the country

I agree with this.  After spending some time in Arkansas I learned to really appreacate the local watering holes in the upper midwest just for the good grub and air conditioning.

There are many great ideas here.  I've used many.

But my recommendation is to call a ride and camp excursion here on STN.  I've learn the most by camping with many from N.IL and WIS.  Best of all if you forget something, someone else will have it.  And if you can get DavidLSI to show up and cook even better.  

Other than that remember why you are camping.  I just love getting up prior to sun rise and hiking till I find the best place to watch it in real time.

[loadedmind]

Firestarters:  Take dryer lint.  Add Vaseline and work it into the lint until the fibers are well-coated.  Pack into a 35mm film container or two.  Extract a pinch or two of the impregnated lint to use as a fire starter.  If you're frugal / it's not too windy you can go for a week on a single film containers' worth of fuel.

I do this as well, but instead of the messy Vaseline, I soak the lint in Olive Oil.  The fire lasts longer and you don't have to worry about getting petroleum jelly all over the place.

[motospeed9058]

recommendation is to call a ride and camp excursion here on STN. 

If the friends I'm going with end up not going due to work committments, that just MAY happen.    Stay Tuned!!!!
 

[snake]

I do this as well, but instead of the messy Vaseline, I soak the lint in Olive Oil.  The fire lasts longer and you don't have to worry about getting petroleum jelly all over the place.

why not just use used motor oil on the lint

[antvq]

I make my firestarters as follows....

1. Visit your favorite fast food joint and swipe borrow a bunch of the little ketchup cups.
2. Pack cup with dryer lint
3. Pour melted wax from used up candles into the lint

Lets you use up that dryer lint and finds a use for those used up candles.  Also starts a great fire and smells pretty good as well.

[Giaka]

Lesson Learned? The wife and I love to do it but don't always have the time.  

[sodapop6620]

I make sure I have some toilet paper with me.  And don't be afraid to use natures crapper.  I've been in a couple of campgrounds and found the woods were way better.

The babywipes are a good idea but I think the tp packs better.  Also remember that you may not need to bring everything on your list because there is a walmart within 50-100 miles of the campground and they will have what you need/want.

[bluepoof]

The babywipes are a good idea but I think the tp packs better.  

That's true if you're only using the wipes as TP.  But the wipes are also good for wiping dishes, cleaning your face at night/morning, wiping bugs off the face shield (if there's no lotion), using as napkins/paper towels, etc.  

[jeepinbanditrider]

An 88 pack of wipes from Wal-Mart last a pretty good while.  You "clean up" much quicker using baby wipes as toilet paper than you do using TP wo those 88 wipes will last and perform multiple duties.

[Bravo12]

MotoPak GT-Roll bag is perfect for hauling ALL the camping gear you need on the passenger seat. It has several mounting options, including attached bungee straps. It comes with a rain cover, but it's water-resistant enough that I didn't worry about the camping gear getting a little wet; everything was either waterproof itself or in a waterproof bag (definitely put the sleeping bag in a waterproof compression sack).

Wal-Mart has a little LED lamp for hanging from the ceiling of the tent. Between this, and a good headlamp, that should be all you need. If you need more lighting for setting up camp, turn the bike on and point it in the right direction.

REI and Cabela's are great sources for backpacking gear - sleeping bags, tents, tent footprints, etc - and you can order everything online.  Look for occasional closeout sales, too!

[birdrunner]

What kind of dry bag do you use?  various sizes?

I use SeaLine Kayak bags.   They make a tube about 1" in diameter and can be almost 3 ft long  (the end rolls tight so it could be 14" too).  They just the right size for sleeping bags, etc.

Most things designed for hiking work well motocamping.  Especially techinical clothing  (micro fleece, silk under layer etc.)

Also,  my clothes, sleeping bag, etc go into Crush Sacks, which compact everything and save space, plus.

Using electric gear instead of packing warm biking clothes save a ton of hassle, is more comfortable, and is warmer.

[birdrunner]

Now that's a different one.  I've heard of the sawdust and candlewax (never used, but heard of it).  This is the first (even during my military days) that i've heard of this one.  Thanks.  

It's the official firestarter of the Gov't outdoor Ed. course.  Works well.

[Testcase]

Todd and I have become big fans of this compression sack since our last road trip:

http://www.backcountry.com/stoic-wpf-compression-sack

I use two in each sidecase for all my clothes and tent. They pack down nice and tight and in a very sidecase friendly shape.

[ConPilot1]

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-24-LED-Tent-Light/15599760?sourceid=1500000000000003260410&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=15599760

Dude this thing is 8 frigging inches across. I've seen these lights at Wally World.

For compact lighting you can do much better than that. This is NOT a viable piece of motorcycle camp gear.

[jeepinbanditrider]

Dude this thing is 8 frigging inches across. I've seen these lights at Wally World.

For compact lighting you can do much better than that. This is NOT a viable piece of motorcycle camp gear.

Agreed.  I've seen these in use by some MC riding friends of mine and for their size they don't throw nearly enough light out and it's uneven light at that.

[ConPilot1]

Now THIS is a light for motorcycle camping. These things simply rock for light output,
are lightweight, waterproof, versatile, and very finely machined. A bit pricey, but not really when you weigh it
against other quality high-output variable intensity headlamp options.

These are worth EVERY PENNY of the $65 price tag.
On HIGH, this sucker will light up an entire freaking campsite and the campsite next to it.

Get the neutral tint one, colors look truer than the cool blue-white tint model.

1 single AA battery powers this puppy. A four pack of batteries and you should be good to go for 2 weeks of nightly use.

[Mr.Black]

I used a small 9 LED light and the Petzle head lamp last week. It was all I needed. The water bottle for the midnight nature call was replaced with the Gatorade bottle where the liquid originated.

[CLAY]

1. Establishing a system for packing the bike takes some trial and error. Pay attention to what you use the most and what you don't use, so you can pack frequently needed items where they are accessible and trim unused items from future trips.
2. Pack by category to minimize time searching for what you need--tent and camp gear in one bag, clothes in one bag, "on-bike" items like tools and rain gear in one bag
3. Once you settle on a "system" for packing, pack/load everything in the same order every time you break camp--helps to prevent losing or misplacing gear, since the process of packing is a built-in double check.

This.  Having a specific system is mandatory.  A place for everything.  For me it's tools and raingear on one side GIVI, camping gear and cooking supplies in the other, clothes in T-bag on the pillion seat, sleeping pad strapped to one side case, folding chair to the other, topcase for incidentals.  It's perfect for me.

[twigsnapper]

If you're going to drink a lot, make sure you have some water handy before you go to bed, if you forget that, make sure to take a flashlite with you to the pump. Don't ask how I know this.

[Croak]

Firestarters:  Take dryer lint.  Add Vaseline and work it into the lint until the fibers are well-coated.  Pack into a 35mm film container or two.  Extract a pinch or two of the impregnated lint to use as a fire starter.  If you're frugal / it's not too windy you can go for a week on a single film containers' worth of fuel.

Or go to WalMart and buy a brick of fire starters for $1.27, you're set for 20-30 campfires, depending on how good your wood is. 

Bug spray is good, anti-itch sticks are a good backup. 

Bring tweezers, always bring tweezers, even if you don't plan on masturbating and/or forgot the magnifying glass. 

Bring a couple spare cheap stuff sacks (also easily found at WalMart), in which you can stuff your dirty laundry and the inevitable crap you will buy on the trip.

Instant oatmeal single-serve packets are cheap and filling. 

Customs agents freak out a bit when they see a ziplock baggy full of powdered coffee creamer. 

Buying off-brand dehydrated meals is a mistake, pop for the brand name. 

A water bladder without a nylon backpack case packs better. 

Primus makes a better and cheaper "jetboil" than Jetboil. 

NEVER use cotton socks, underwear or t-shirts if you can avoid it. 

An extra down summer weight sleeping bag makes an excellent and compact pillow. 

Toilet paper in a public campground is a myth, pack accordingly. 

Folding a nylon tent is a waste of time and bad for modern tent materials...just stuff the sucker in the bag. 

Pack your tent so that the rain fly is always on top, so you can get that up quickly in the rain, and have a dry shelter to put up the rest of the tent.  If your tent design doesn't allow this, get a new tent.  "Bathtub" tent floors are just that if you set them up in the rain.

ALWAYS stake out your tent.

NEVER stake out your tent until you're sure it's in a good spot...field test it for lumps, leveling, etc.  If you can't get it level, set it up so that your head is aligned with the higher parts.

Check your shit before you head out.  All your shit.  Just because it worked last year when you put it away doesn't mean it'll be good this year. 

Pack Imodium (this is "keeping your shit in check" rather than checking your shit).

A few water purification tabs are dirt cheap, don't take up much space, may prevent you from needing the stuff above.

Bring nylon rope...good for bear-proofing your food, tarp stringing, snake scaring, and dealing with horse thieves.

A nylon tarp can turn a shitty campsite into a nice campsite. 

A tarp attached to your handlebars, over the headlight/front wheel and tent-staked to the ground is a nice, roomy field-expedient sunshade.

Buy a tent with with two vestibules.  Entry area is where you stow your gear, the other one is for clandestine 2AM peeing out the back flap, or into your designated bottle if you have one.

Pack a tube of SeamGrip.

Fully zip your inner tent.

Boots come inside the tent after suitable crud removal.  Same with helmet.  Critters WILL find a way into the vestibule.  See above, if you don't do that, they'll be sleeping with you too.

Bringing your own seating is desirable, for campground comfort as well as getting your gear on before you ride.

Hot Sauce and/or Mrs Dash can make just about anything edible.  

[Bravo12]

Dude this thing is 8 frigging inches across. I've seen these lights at Wally World.

For compact lighting you can do much better than that. This is NOT a viable piece of motorcycle camp gear.

The thing costs like $4, fits just fine in the side pocket of any bag, puts out plenty of light for inside the tent, and a set of AA batteries will last close to a month of regular use. IMO, it's hard to beat. It's no lantern for lighting up the entire campsite, but between this and a good headlamp (for outside the tent), I was just fine the last dozen times I camped.

[motospeed9058]

Or go to WalMart and buy a brick of fire starters for $1.27, you're set for 20-30 campfires, depending on how good your wood is. 

Bug spray is good, anti-itch sticks are a good backup. 

Bring tweezers, always bring tweezers, even if you don't plan on masturbating and/or forgot the magnifying glass. 

Bring a couple spare cheap stuff sacks (also easily found at WalMart), in which you can stuff your dirty laundry and the inevitable crap you will buy on the trip.

Instant oatmeal single-serve packets are cheap and filling. 

Customs agents freak out a bit when they see a ziplock baggy full of powdered coffee creamer. 

Buying off-brand dehydrated meals is a mistake, pop for the brand name. 

A water bladder without a nylon backpack case packs better. 

Primus makes a better and cheaper "jetboil" than Jetboil. 

NEVER use cotton socks, underwear or t-shirts if you can avoid it. 

An extra down summer weight sleeping bag makes an excellent and compact pillow. 

Toilet paper in a public campground is a myth, pack accordingly. 

Folding a nylon tent is a waste of time and bad for modern tent materials...just stuff the sucker in the bag. 

Pack your tent so that the rain fly is always on top, so you can get that up quickly in the rain, and have a dry shelter to put up the rest of the tent.  If your tent design doesn't allow this, get a new tent.  "Bathtub" tent floors are just that if you set them up in the rain.

ALWAYS stake out your tent.

NEVER stake out your tent until you're sure it's in a good spot...field test it for lumps, leveling, etc.  If you can't get it level, set it up so that your head is aligned with the higher parts.

Check your shit before you head out.  All your shit.  Just because it worked last year when you put it away doesn't mean it'll be good this year. 

Pack Imodium (this is "keeping your shit in check" rather than checking your shit).

A few water purification tabs are dirt cheap, don't take up much space, may prevent you from needing the stuff above.

Bring nylon rope...good for bear-proofing your food, tarp stringing, snake scaring, and dealing with horse thieves.

A nylon tarp can turn a shitty campsite into a nice campsite. 

A tarp attached to your handlebars, over the headlight/front wheel and tent-staked to the ground is a nice, roomy field-expedient sunshade.

Buy a tent with with two vestibules.  Entry area is where you stow your gear, the other one is for clandestine 2AM peeing out the back flap, or into your designated bottle if you have one.

Pack a tube of SeamGrip.

Fully zip your inner tent.

Boots come inside the tent after suitable crud removal.  Same with helmet.  Critters WILL find a way into the vestibule.  See above, if you don't do that, they'll be sleeping with you too.

Bringing your own seating is desirable, for campground comfort as well as getting your gear on before you ride.

Hot Sauce and/or Mrs Dash can make just about anything edible. 

  Very well stated!  I like this guy already.

[birdrunner]

  Very well stated!  I like this guy already.

I guessing you've never met.  

[motospeed9058]

I guessing you've never met.  

Nope and I'm just now getting back into the forum.  My last job sucked the life out of me to the point I didn't have a desire to look at riding.    So I've been away for a year or so.  Now that I have a new job, I'm back to enjoying life again.  We have not met, but maybe can in the future.  

[birdrunner]

I've touched on Maryland, and Croat's a bit futher west.  (11 hrs) so you'd REAAALLY have to want to meet him if you were to ride out to Vancouver.

I know him,   he's nice enough, but really. ....

[keepergale]

Maybe not in the spirit of the thread but I NEED my smart phone and on the road charging capability.

[Greyhound]

I learned to bring my credit card and skip the camping bit. 

There are hotels and motels that make camping look like a much better idea.  The ground is cleaner and the party kids two sites over are not always louder that the couple in the next room.  (really)

Other point - I use an emergency foil blanket as a ground sheet for my tent. They are dry, light, cheap, and reflect heat back into the tent.  At $2 each, I can afford to garbage the thing if it gets dirty.  I always pack 4 or 5 in my tent bag.  And you never know - there might be an emergency.

[Croak]

No reported cases of Cimicidae (bedbugs) from campsites either.  

I don't camp because it's cheaper (takes a lot of camping to amortize a good set of camping gear), I camp because I enjoy it, and it's usually a great way to meet people while on the road, whereas hotel rooms are generally little isolation chambers, and the quality of the solitude is much better as well.

[Mr.Black]

Maybe not in the spirit of the thread but I NEED my smart phone and on the road charging capability.

SAE connector - cigarette outlet - applicable phone charger in the tank bag.

[Oxblood]

This last trip to the National in Custer I did not camp ,uch, as the weather was atrocious all the way through ID, WY and into SD. I did get a couple of nights in on the way back when the weather improved in WA.

I love camping, and have been an outdoors enthusiast for a long time (went on my first backpacking trip with my dad and brother when I was all of 9 years old, car camping before that with the family since I was a babe in swaddling clothes). I love blending riding with camping.

For equipment, think volume as well as weight, as the space taken is also important. Also, think comfort. You have spent several hours riding to get there, then you want to relax. And relaxing is vital if you plan to ride the next day.

For equipment, here is my list of camp essentials:

Sleeping/living equipment:

1x Hennessy Explorer Deluxe hammock w/hex fly, and JRB down underquilt, ultralight compact sleeping back for top covering
1x Extra hex fly for living area, gear storage (it is just as important to keep boots, clothes, etc dry as it is yer butt.
1X Primus easy light lantern and 1x small canister of the propane fuel

This all fits in one 35 litre Givi side bag.

1x Small folding chair (strapped over pillion)

This all fits in one 35 litre Givi side bag.

Kitchen:

MSR Dragonfly stove. Da Bomb. Best small stove around. Loud, but it "simmers", with fuel bottle.
MSR 1 litre fuel bottle to carry additional white gas for stove
GSI Dualist Cook Set. Nice 1.8 litre hard anodized aluminum pot, two times cups and bowls, all nest together.
GSI Pocket Kitchen (spice containers, small plastic spatula, tongs, small plastic cutting board, cheese grater, etc)
GSI collapsible cone filter coffee maker and filters
Good knife
Lexan knife, fork and spoons
Napkins
Wet Ones in the re-sealable plastic flat pack
Large 800ml cup
Fenix TK11 230 lumnes flashlight
Petzl tikka headlamp
Ursus food bag
OPSAK odourproof storage bags for food
Toiletries
1x Folding sink (cleaning dishes and having a whore's bath when you need it)

Food:
Coffee
1 x box of instant oatmeal packages
4 x Old El Paso Heat and Serve taco/burrito fillings ( awesome, easy to prepare, and WAY cheaper than freeze dried backpacking meals. In a retort so they do not need refrigeration). Reesupply as needed at any Super WalMart.
Snack foods
Coffee, tea, instant hot chocolate

This stuff goes into the top case.

Bike gear:

Tool kit
Chain lube and cleaner
Slime tire pump
Tire pressure gauge
Extra maps
Softie jacket

All goes in the other 35 litre side case

Clothes:

Lots of spare socks. I use a cuple of pair of cotton socks for camp wear. Lightweight "coolmax" type for riding.
Two wicking shirts packed, one worn.
2 x cotton tshirts for camp wear
1x nylon beach shorts for camp
1 pair of jeans
Keen sandals for camp
Goretex jacket for camp
Boonie hat
Fleece gloves for camp

Clothes are stashed in a Watershed Yukon dry duffel bag that goes over the pillion.

Sundry camp gear:

Paracord
Fiskars 17 inch splitting axe
Sheath knife
Bear spray
Towel
Camp pillow (Thermarest large)
Katadyn Base Camp water purification system
Books
5 x microfibre clothes (for cleaning bike, me and dishes)
Extra ziploc bags

This joins clothes in the duffel.

Quick access gear for when riding:

1x Softshell for insulation under leathers if needed.
2 x wet weather gloves

Goes in a small dry bag that is strapped atop the pile on the pillion.

Tank bag contents:

Map for area riding in
Granola/oatmeal/energy bars
Sunscreen
Travel insurance card
Small notebook
Nexus Card
Wallet
Luggage keys
Camera
Coins
Ear plugs
Lock blade knife
Pen
Whistle

It seems like a lot, and it may be. But I like my snivel kit, and who needs to rough it when camping? It all fits well on the bike, and there is plenty of room left for my rather large ass to sit on the rider's seat.

Each piece of kit was chosen for a purpose. Even in summer (as evidenced by anyone who went to Custer) you can run into foul weather. better to have and not need than need and not have. It all fits on the bike, doesn't hurt the handling or fuel economy, and it is there if I need it.

Adapt as you see fit, and Happy trails. Enjoy motorcycle camping, wheteher it be alone, or with a group. I always find it rewarding.

[Elessar]

Pee bottle?  Really?!  Wow, y'all are really lazy and that's disgusting.  You wanna dance, you gotta pay the piper.  Even if I don't drink "so" much, I ain't makin' it through the night without a trip to the restroom/outback/woods.  But I will NOT pee in a bottle in my tent.  Whew!  That's nasty!

[Oxblood]

Here is the bike packed as described above:



And here is the camp:

[ConPilot1]

Pee bottle?  Really?!  Wow, y'all are really lazy and that's disgusting.  You wanna dance, you gotta pay the piper.  Even if I don't drink "so" much, I ain't makin' it through the night without a trip to the restroom/outback/woods.  But I will NOT pee in a bottle in my tent.  Whew!  That's nasty!

+100 buddy. I was going to post about this earlier, but I do not subscribe to the piss in a bottle in your tent either.
Plus you gotta carry an extra nalgene just for the piss. Nalgene's are not small. And because it's a piss bottle you can't pack trail mix in it.

PUT YOUR FREAKING SANDALS ON, Put your H51w headlamp on GO FIND A TREE AND PISS ON IT. THE tree will thank you for it eventually.
plus, if you're like me, a late night piss break is also a call for a few minutes of chair chillin', check out the stars, throw one more log on the fire, a nip from the flask, a nice relaxing smoke,
and the i'm ready for bed again.

[shootist]

Any tips for what might be called "gonzo camping"?

Meaning without researching every stop....and paying for campsites and getting stuck next to aforementioned frat house campers.

Any tips for riding until you're tired or find a nice little village and you want to stop for the night.

I'm sure crashing on private property would be immensely frowned on and incur LEO wrath....but are there places more accepting?

Church properties mid-week?  School properties in the summer? Cemeteries? Wooded areas off rest stops?  Grassy edges on the fringes of a Wal-mart?

Sometimes I go with everything laid out.   Sometimes i just want to throw a 2-man tent and a pad on the back and go.   I always get paranoid about stopping.  Might get lucky and find a quiet place along a stream by accident...not usually.  

But I'm sure there's somebody here who could write a book on winging it.

[birdrunner]

Any tips for what might be called "gonzo camping"?

Meaning without researching every stop....and paying for campsites and getting stuck next to aforementioned frat house campers.

Any tips for riding until you're tired or find a nice little village and you want to stop for the night.

I'm sure crashing on private property would be immensely frowned on and incur LEO wrath....but are there places more accepting?

Church properties mid-week?  School proerties in the summer? Cemeteries? Wooded areas off rest stops?  Grassy edges on the fringes of a Wal-mart?

Sometimes I go with everything laid out.   Sometimes i just want to throw a 2-man tent and a pad on the back and go.   I always get paranoid about stopping.  Might get lucky and find a quiet place along a stream by accident...not usually.  

But I'm sure there's somebody here who could write a book on winging it.

many small towns have a small campsite available for a small fee.  eg, Eureka, Mt charges $5,  I usually ask a local or a cop.

[Mr.Black]

Any tips for what might be called "gonzo camping"?

Meaning without researching every stop....and paying for campsites and getting stuck next to aforementioned frat house campers.

Any tips for riding until you're tired or find a nice little village and you want to stop for the night.

I'm sure crashing on private property would be immensely frowned on and incur LEO wrath....but are there places more accepting?

Church properties mid-week?  School properties in the summer? Cemeteries? Wooded areas off rest stops?  Grassy edges on the fringes of a Wal-mart?

Sometimes I go with everything laid out.   Sometimes i just want to throw a 2-man tent and a pad on the back and go.   I always get paranoid about stopping.  Might get lucky and find a quiet place along a stream by accident...not usually.  

But I'm sure there's somebody here who could write a book on winging it.

I had all the AAA camp books for the area in a resent trip. A quick peruse was quite helpful in choosing a site.

[Croak]

I've got all the state and national campgrounds loaded as POI's in my Zumo, somebody took the time to make a GPX file of them.  I refuse to stay at a KOA or any other commercial campsites.

[bdhszy1]

  No matter what luggage you have, don't pack more than 75% of capacity. You'll never pack it on the road as tight as you did at home. The first time you break camp in the pouring rain you'll be thanking me for this tip.

[ConPilot1]

MSR Dragonfly stove. Da Bomb. Best small stove around. Loud, but it "simmers", with fuel bottle.

Sorry. Disagree. the MSR stoves can't hold a candle to the Optimus/Svea options out there.
I Have several. They work, but they aren't the best.

[tomek]

I've got all the state and national campgrounds loaded as POI's in my Zumo, somebody took the time to make a GPX file of them.  I refuse to stay at a KOA or any other commercial campsites.

Link ? I`m with you on KOA , camping at commercial campgrounds is not a real camping .

[Fourstring]

I usually ask a local or a cop.

This is a great way to camp in the town's baseball diamond.  

[jeepinbanditrider]

Any tips for what might be called "gonzo camping"?

Meaning without researching every stop....and paying for campsites and getting stuck next to aforementioned frat house campers.

Any tips for riding until you're tired or find a nice little village and you want to stop for the night.

I'm sure crashing on private property would be immensely frowned on and incur LEO wrath....but are there places more accepting?

Church properties mid-week?  School properties in the summer? Cemeteries? Wooded areas off rest stops?  Grassy edges on the fringes of a Wal-mart?

Sometimes I go with everything laid out.   Sometimes i just want to throw a 2-man tent and a pad on the back and go.   I always get paranoid about stopping.  Might get lucky and find a quiet place along a stream by accident...not usually.  

But I'm sure there's somebody here who could write a book on winging it.

Google "Stealth Camping".  Cemeteries, Churches, ect are popular with stealth campers.  If you stop at a church and the preacher lives on the church grounds you can probably ask permission.........might even get a free breakfast out of it

[Croak]

Link ? I`m with you on KOA , camping at commercial campgrounds is not a real camping .

http://www.uscampgrounds.info/

[birdrunner]

I've got all the state and national campgrounds loaded as POI's in my Zumo, somebody took the time to make a GPX file of them.  I refuse to stay at a KOA or any other commercial campsites.

Yeah,  the only camper cabins we found in St. Mary's were KOA,   we got screwed pricewise,  but there was no way we were sleeping in that lousy weather.

[Oxblood]

Any tips for what might be called "gonzo camping"?

Meaning without researching every stop....and paying for campsites and getting stuck next to aforementioned frat house campers.

Any tips for riding until you're tired or find a nice little village and you want to stop for the night.

I'm sure crashing on private property would be immensely frowned on and incur LEO wrath....but are there places more accepting?

Church properties mid-week?  School properties in the summer? Cemeteries? Wooded areas off rest stops?  Grassy edges on the fringes of a Wal-mart?

Sometimes I go with everything laid out.   Sometimes i just want to throw a 2-man tent and a pad on the back and go.   I always get paranoid about stopping.  Might get lucky and find a quiet place along a stream by accident...not usually.  

But I'm sure there's somebody here who could write a book on winging it.

You may camp in unorganized fashion almost anywhere in  a national Forest. The USFS calls it dispersed camping. The only problem, no crapper or water supply, so you have to plan accordingly. As mentioned, a lot of smaller towns have municipal campgrounds in the town center. USFS campgrounds are literally everywhere, with a lot of them close to the roadside. These are awesome as very few people seem to realize the Forest Service runs campgrounds. Inexpensive, most close to major roads have running, potable water. No showers, but if you really need one, find a Flying J travel center.

Other "gonzo" or "stealth" camping can be summed up in one word: trespassing.  Private land owners might get really angry if you set up camp without permission. rest stops are a bad idea because of the transient nature of the people stopping there, as well as every rest stop I have been to has stated no overnight camping.

Loads of resources on the web. Check out the USFS web site, as well as www.forestcamping.com. Google Motorcycle Camping as well, and there is a link to a site with maps and downloadable waypoints for GPS. National Parks are also a good place to stay, but can be very busy.

[motospeed9058]

  No matter what luggage you have, don't pack more than 75% of capacity. You'll never pack it on the road as tight as you did at home. The first time you break camp in the pouring rain you'll be thanking me for this tip.

 

[Poustman]

My motocamping lesson: a good cheap motel beats just about any campground if you want to sleep.

I suspect that others, like me, are deliberately _seeking_ to camp.  Though we want to sleep well while do do so.  

[axelwik]

Nalgene bottle marked with a big X to avoid confusion. This is to be used for a pee bottle so you don't have to get out of the tent in the middle of the night after drinking your beer.

That doesn't work when it's dark, and the X will eventually wear off or you won't see it. Use a large Gatorade bottle for piss and Nalgene bottle for drinking - harder to confuse the two at O'dark thirty.

[Jonathan]

Get a good buzz on.  Helps me get right to sleep!

[jeepinbanditrider]

   Just get out of the tent and go piss if you need to take a piss  

[tomek]

Cheap motel = bed bugs , ghetto and fail . 2:45 am domestic dispute and meth distribution center next door  . Thanks .    

[CLAY]

Everyone can pack lighter than me.  

[Mr.Black]

Those train tracks that you see over there will have trains on them every half hour after you fall asleep and not a moment before.