If you haven't yet taken advantage of your two wheels
and gone further than a tank-full away from home, you may be looking to have a
holiday or short break away. Ideally, take a short break as your first trip
away. You WILL learn useful hands on tips by doing this. No matter what
people tell you, you'll soon make up your own mind as to what you really
need.
The amount of luggage you will want to to take will
depend greatly on where you are going, where you are staying and for how long.
Luggage choice will vary bike to bike, but in general
tank bags, panniers (hard or soft), Cargo nets, Bungee Straps and a Rucksack
wont go a miss. Luggage will be available at most good bike shops and you will
get some great advice from a well informed sales person.
At bare minimum we recommend a small rucksack for the
things you'll need to keep to hand. And Panniers. If you need extra room, then
we would suggest a tank bag, and luggage rack.
Remember the more weight you pack on your motorcycle
will affect handling and performance. If you have a luggage rack loaded up, your
front end will be lighter. So take the first few miles incredibly steady until
you have adjusted to riding with a fully loaded bike.
Be sure to load the weight into your panniers evenly.
Travelling light has it's complications, even more so if you are
rider and pillion.
The art of packing essentials and picking up the rest en-route has to
be mastered and even the best of planners finds they've forgotten
something.
Many of the Accommodation providers who advertise with Bike Stay (
www.bike-stay.net ), will offer
ironing and washing facilities which means you don't have to worry
too much about packing a fresh set of clothes for each day of your
holiday. If you plan on wearing your leathers only for your ride, and
changing into civvies for your evenings don't forget to pack a pair of
shoes/trainers for civvy-wear. (It's often overlooked!)
Most accommodation providers will supply towels and basic
toiletries, soap & shampoo etc. Check before you set off and you may
only need to pack a toothbrush. A lot of our advertisers offer a lot
more than just soap to keep yourself clean!
Self Catering Cottages and Apartments will usually have clothes
washing facilities, but may not provide linen without prior
arrangement, be sure to check and ask in advance if you require these.
If you do require linen and towels, there is usually a surcharge to add
on the cost. Please check before you leave!
On board, you would be wise to carry a fully charged mobile phone
(preferably WITH credit) for emergencies. Don't forget your phone
charger either!
Also remember, Your bike's tool kit (if you haven't got one then get
one!) and small first aid or emergency kit. These can be purchased from
your local bike shop and can usually be stashed away under your seat.
