Some good tips here.

But you can over complicate things.

There is still something to be said for just getting on the thing, unplanned, and riding like a cut snake to wherever the headlight points. The sheer joy of not having a destination, a plan, or a care in the world.

Whatever happens - hail, rain, dirt roads, roadkill, dead ends, dry eyes, sore butt, sunburn, freezing fog and anything that falls off, scrapes or breaks becomes a story you can tell your mates next time you are down the pub.

 

Some really good tips and saves me making one up as I head down to Switzerland in a couple of weeks time

Obvious to all I am sure, but thought I would mention - point 3 doesn't sound like a great idea on newer bikes with Smart Security :-)

 

Chris - thanks for posting; these are all useful points with a lot of good reminders for even experienced tourers. Glad to hear you are healing well and hope they repair the bike earlier than expected.

 

Also, If you riding with a couple other people, everyone can carry a little from the list so one person dosen't have to pack it all.
-6pack

 

Bump to the top since the weather is a lot better and a lot more people are riding.

 

Some good tips here!
Thanks

 

Another great tip that I either picked up here or just heard somewhere was to ship your dirty laundry home halfway through the trip. I just returned from a 3,000-mile ride last week and did that on the 5th day. Lots more room for stuff you pick up along the way! Worked out great.

 

Good list, Add this one

Tip # 38 Take your oldest socks and underwear and throw them out as you use them.

 

great list, eight of us are planning a 2 week trip I just sent them a copy of the list good stuff

 

I have a 5 day trip planned to PA this summer, so these are some great tips. I recommend the bike lock for keeping your helmet and jacket secured to your bike.