Motorcycle camping combines the freedom of the open road with the serenity of sleeping under the stars. Whether you’ve been riding for years or you’re planning your very first moto-camping weekend, having the right gear will make the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable adventure.

This guide covers the essential motorcycle camping gear you’ll need to stay comfortable, organized, and ready for whatever the road brings.

1. Motorcycle-Specific Tent or Shelter

Your tent is the foundation of your camp. For riders, space and weight are always at a premium, so look for:

Buy on Amazon

Motorcycle-tailored tents with a vestibule or covered area to keep your bike dry and protected.
Lightweight backpacking tents if you ride a smaller bike or prefer a compact setup. They’re quick to set up, easy to pack, and available in options for one, two, and three people.

💡 Pro tip: If you go with a backpacking tent, carry a compact tarp for extra rain and sun protection.

2. Sleeping System: Rest Fuels the Ride

After a long day on the road, a good night’s sleep is everything.

Sleeping bag: Choose one that matches the climate where you’re riding. A 20°F (three-season) bag will provide plenty of warmth, even for Spring or late Fall adventures.
Sleeping pad or air mattress: Essential for insulation and comfort. Options range from ultralight inflatables to foam pads and even compact cots. Consider the storage space you have available and prioritize your personal comfort preferences when selecting a sleeping system.
Pillow: Don’t skip it. You might be tempted to skimp here and sleep on rolled up clothes, but we can tell you from experience that a small camping pillow makes a huge difference.

💡 Test your sleep setup at home before you go — better to find out now if it works for you, or needs tweaking, before you hit the road.

3. Lighting & Power

Once the sun goes down, reliable lighting is key.

Headlamp (preferably with a red-light mode for stargazing and preserving night vision).
Compact Lantern for your campsite.
Power bank to recharge lights, phone, and even your GoPro or Insta360 to capture your adventures.

4. Camp Kitchen Basics

Eating well on the road doesn’t mean packing your whole kitchen.

Compact stove, cookware, and utensils for quick, easy meals.
Multi-tool for repairs and little jobs around the campsite.
Small grill grate if you enjoy cooking over the campsite.

👉 For more detailed recommendations, check out our post: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to Elevate Your Outdoor Cooking Experience.

5. Food & Water

High-quality cooler (collapsible options save space as supplies dwindle).
Planned meals that balance non-perishables with a few cooler staples. Tip: Freeze any meats to help keep the rest of your food cold.
Fill a Canteen at home for short riders. For longer or wild camping trips, you’ll probably need a way to filter more water, such as a Hydrapak filter and reservoir bag.
Coffee setup: Collapsible pour-over or AeroPress for your morning fix.
Earth-friendly dish soap for post-meal clean up.

6. Camp Comforts

Buy on Amazon

If you have space after the essentials, level up your campsite:

Lightweight chairs + table for meals and relaxing.
Hammock for the ultimate chill-out spot.

7. Campfire Essentials

Few things beat swapping stories around the fire. Make sure you pack the basics to get those flames going.

Lighter and fire starters.
Hatchet and saw if you’ll be gathering wood (check regulations first).

8. First Aid Kit

A must-have on any ride:

Bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pain relievers, personal meds.
For ease and simplicity, you can also grab a pre-made camping first aid kit.
Familiarize yourself with basic first aid before you head out.

9. Clothing & Personal Items

Protective riding gear: helmet, gloves, jacket, boots.
Layered clothing: adaptable to changing temps.
Rain gear: always worth the space.
Toiletries & basics: sunscreen, bug spray, toothbrush, travel-sized essentials.

10. Navigation & Safety Tools

Offline maps, compass, or Satellite GPS device if heading into remote areas.
Always let someone know your route and return time.

11. Packing Your Motorcycle

Efficient packing = safer, smoother riding.

Dry bag + tie down straps are the simplest, most versatile solution.
If you’re equipped with a luggage rack on the back of your bike, plus a back rest or sissy bar, then a large back-pack style bag gives you lots of storage room and easily straps on your bike to get on the road quickly.
Consider side panniers, tank bags, or tail bags for more storage. Keep in mind when browsing your options, what your regional weather condition require. Some storage solutions are watertight, and others offer a rain cover to protect your gear from the elements.
Use packing cubes to keep gear compact and organized.
NOTE: You’ll have to balance your storage choices with the realistic space you have on your bike.
Then it’s time to get creative on how and where you will attach it safely and securely to your bike. Always do a test pack and ride before your trip.

Mountain Cruisin’: Catskills/Fährt Edition | September 12–14, 2025

Final Thoughts

Every motorcycle camping setup looks a little different — and that’s the beauty of it. Start with the essentials, adjust as you learn, and remember: it’s about the ride, not perfection.

With the right gear, you’ll be ready to roll into camp, set up quickly, and spend more time enjoying the fire, food, and freedom of the open road.

👉 Ready to put your setup to the test? Join us for a Basecamp Brooklyn camping event and experience the adventure with a crew of like-minded riders.