I usually pack what I need on top (easy access)for stops, sunglass cleaner, sunscreen,drinks,camera, etc. Of course I leave a sample of the route (or close to it)I will be going at home for wife, I always deviate from my entended route but carry camping gear if I happen to find the "perfect campsite".

While cleaning the bike before the trip thats when I gather tools, it helps while you are cleaning you see what you might need, then after everything is gathered, camp gear, clothes,tools etc, the sorting out begins.

I do carry a Qt. bottle (aluminum) of gas just in case fellow rider is stuck on the side of the road out of gas (Have given it away 2 times in 2 yrs)

 

Extra set of directions me and the wife went from DE to Cananda and some time in upstate NY I lost the directions to our stops and hotel.