Boy scout as in the motto..be prepared. Bring all you can. Or just ride and get what you need, tough it out?

Just read a post about 20 degree difference with attitude change on the Cherohala skyway. I know the rockies vary this and more. I guess depends on where one is riding, but as I washed and started repacking my bags yesterday.... (summer to cold weather gear) it got me to thinking. I never go river running without my safety gear bag. Nothing like that on my bike. But I do pack on extra clothes, etc......

any must haves or emergency stuff you carry?

 

At this time of the year I would bring Full Leathers (chaps and jacket), a Rain suit, hooded sweat shirt, T”s and at least one long sleeve medium weight shirt, + Underwear as you think you’ll need.

As far as tools, that would depend on your mechanical knowledge and talent. Defiantly have some type of road side service. (Read just what they cover, you don’t need to be surprised 50+ miles from a dealer).
FYI: I always have a map and a printout of Dealers and phone numbers along the route that I am planning on taking, you may not have cell phone service or if you lose it a cell phone at all. 
You didn’t say how long your planning to spend on this trip.

 

I don't think it is possible to be fully prepared, so the best tools you can carry with you are a cell phone and a credit card. As far as "safety" goes... always on the bike I have cold and wet weather gear, a flashlight, a leatherman, and tubeless tire flat repair kit. I also carry my pills ('scripts, cold/flu, pain, allergies), water, sunblock, and basic first aid kit.

I've been thinking about getting one of those portable power supplies that can jump start a car. They are about the size of a brick paver and are supposed to be able to jump start your bike, recharge your phone, or laptop, or run any number of appliances that run off of USB power. Pretty handy.

To go a bit overboard, but within reason, an emergency thermal blanket, and something to start a fire with would be smart and don't take up much room.

Incidentally, I almost always have food with me too. But, I don't really plan that

 

Depends on how far I am going.
Within 200 miles from home, nothing but a rainsuit and can of fix-a-flat in the tank bag.

Farther than 200 miles and I throw the travel gear on the bike. From that point on, my gear is the same whether it is 200 miles or cross-country. I've learned what I need to take on trips over the years. Thorough and efficient including tools.