When it comes to motorcycle trips, good preparation is crucial. That’s why we’ve put together a handy packing list for your motorcycle adventure. This will ensure that you don't forget anything important and can hit the road with peace of mind!
Important documentation
When you go on a motorcycle holiday, take the time to gather all necessary documents and check that everything is valid. Make copies, keep them in a waterproof folder, and carry them with you at all times.
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Passport
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Driver’s license
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International driving permit
You will need this if you are going on a motorcycle holiday outside the EU. Please note that you must also have your Dutch driving licence with you!
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Registration certificate
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Proof of motorcycle insurance
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Third-party insurance is mandatory. If your motorcycle is also insured against theft and damage, check your policy to see if different terms apply if something happens abroad.
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Health insurance card
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Travel insurance information
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Vaccination record (if applicable)
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Bank card and credit card
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Roadside assistance membership card
Such as your AAA membership card.
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Emergency contact information
Details of the person to contact in case of emergency (ICE contact).
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Spare motorcycle key
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Cash
For the ride
Even if you plan to stop for food or dine out, it’s smart to have water and snacks with you - just in case!
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Water
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Snacks
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Food
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Hydration pack/drinking backpack
Perfect for staying hydrated without stopping.
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Water filter
A water filter or water purification straw is ideal for emergencies, as well as for motorcycle holidays in remote areas and countries where the drinking water may not be safe.
Clothing and motorcycle gear
What you pack depends largely on your destination and the time of year. But as we explain in our beginner’s guide to preparing for your first motorcycle trip, it’s important to be ready for unexpected weather!
Clothing
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Underwear
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Socks
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Casual clothes
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Sleepwear
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Swimwear
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Shoes
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Slippers
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Plastic bag for dirty clothes
Motorcycle clothing
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Helmet
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Helmet hat/balaclava
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Motorcycle jacket
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Motorcycle pants
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Good socks
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Boots or motorcycle shoes
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Two pairs of gloves (summer and winter)
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Scarf or neck warmer
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Rain gear
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Thermal clothing
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Sunglasses or helmet sun visor
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Earplugs (including storage bag and cleaning spray)
Alpine offers excellent motorcycle earplugs that protect against hearing damage from wind and engine noise.
Personal care products
No motorcycle trip checklist would be complete without personal essentials:
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Toothbrush
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Toothpaste
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Soap/shower gel
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Deodorant
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Shampoo
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Shaving equipment
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Towels
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Hand sanitizer/wipes
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Toilet paper
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Sunscreen
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Face cream
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Body lotion
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Lip balm
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Vaseline
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Tick tongs and/or tweezers
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First aid kit
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Personal medication
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Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
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Menstrual products
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Mosquito repellent
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Contact lenses/glasses
(Always bring a spare pair of glasses or extra set of lenses if you depend on them! You don't want to end up halfway through the trip with only one lens or broken glasses...)
Overnight stays
What you need depends on where you’ll stay. Camping is cheaper than hotels, hostels, or Airbnbs, but requires more gear.
If you go camping:
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Tent
(Practice setting it up beforehand and make sure you have all parts like stakes and guy lines.)
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Groundsheet
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Sleeping pad
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Shee
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Pillow
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Paracord
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Pegs
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Tea and coffee
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Cooking equipment
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Lighter/matches
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Dishwashing supplies and a dish towel
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Torch (including extra batteries)
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Straps (useful for securing luggage, but also as a clothesline)
If you are staying elsewhere:
Check in advance what facilities are available and what is and is not provided in terms of towels, soap, sheets and pillowcases, among other things. Hostels often offer the option of renting towels, for example, which is worth considering if you want to take as little luggage as possible.
Tip: bring a pair of sleep earplugs in addition to motorcycle earplugs. A good night's sleep can be a lifesaver after staying in a noisy hostel or campground!
Equipment and electronics
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Smartphone
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Charger
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Powerbank (fully charged)
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Travel plug/world adapter (if needed)
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Optional: GPS device
Going off-grid? Bring a paper map of the area just to be safe.
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Mount and holder for smartphone or GPS
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Communication system*
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In-ear headphones
*optional
Tools & motorcycle essentials
You want enough to handle minor mechanical issues without overloading your bike. Here’s a basic toolkit to bring. If traveling with others, split tools among the group to save space. Remember: spare bulbs and oil may vary by motorcycle make and model.
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Tire repair kit
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Tire pressure gauge
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Multitool
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Spare fuses
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Spare light bulbs
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Small bottle of engine oil
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Chain lube
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Zip ties
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Duct tape
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Instant glue
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Helmet visor cleaner
Security
As for securing your motorcycle, you can take the same measures as you do at home. Do you have a tracker system? Make sure it works in the countries you’ll visit.
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Chain with lock
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Disc brake lock
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PacSafe net or cable
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Motorcycle cover
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GPS tracker
