You’ve decided on the destination and planned the stopovers: all that’s left to do is start up your Guzzi and leave. For a few days you’ll be travelling with your prized motorcycle: what more could you ask for? There is just one last detail to take care of before you set off and that’s what to pack!
The most important rule is to cut weight and bulk to a minimum: you don’t want to run the risk of being hampered by your luggage during the journey. In any case, a rider doesn’t need much for exploring the world… The principle is to reuse what you take with you: t-shirts and jeans, for example, can be washed between one stopover and another.
The other thing to do before you leave is to get a pen and some paper and make lists so that you don’t forget anything: on one side list your clothes, including technical gear (gloves, body armour and protection, back protector, boots) and waterproof gear, because, unfortunately, in rains in the summer too; on the other side, list the equipment for the bike.
Specifically, don’t forget t-shirts, two hoodies or heavier pullovers, slippers, a change of shoes, underwear and, if you plan to soak up some sun, a bathing suit. And if you think you might go to a nice restaurant, include a shirt. To save space, divide the clothes by type and wrap them in plastic bags, so everything will be more rational and simple.
For the motorcycle, useful items are lubricant, a roll of adhesive tape and one of insulating tape, plastic zip ties, bungee cords, an elastic net, an emergency petrol bag, a tyre inflator aerosol or a complete puncture repair kit, a spray can of grease for the chain, and spare fuses. However, before you leave, don’t forget to pay the mechanic a visit.
As to positioning the luggage, bear in mind that essential items should be kept in the tank bag, including a small first aid kit, spare keys for the bike, documents, a bottle of water and some wet wipes that could be immediately useful. Put heavier items in the saddlebags so as to keep the barycentre low, but remember to keep the bike balanced by distributing the weight evenly on each side. If you don’t have a passenger, you could use the rear saddle for a roll up holdall; make sure that it is waterproof or else get a tail bag. But always remember that the lighter you travel, the freer you will be.
