Dirt Bike Camping: Packing the Essentials

Planning a dirt bike camping trip for the weekend? Or maybe you’ll be away for weeks. Thinking of all the things you need to bring can be overwhelming, especially if it’s a last-minute decision or if you’re busy finishing a mountain of work (who isn’t, right?).

We’ve listed some ideas here, along with some tips to make the camping trip a lot more fun and hassle-free.

Bike and Tools

Your Dirt Bike

Make sure you go through all routine maintenance checks before leaving home. If you hear some suspect noises from your bike or you know some parts need replacing, don’t risk it. Nothing is more frustrating than having a major breakdown down in the middle of your big camping trip.

Here are checklists that you can use as guides:

If there are dodgy engine noises, excess smoke (not the type from your mate that hasn’t yet given up), or you think it may be time for an engine rebuild, here are some articles that may help:

And don’t forget the tyres. Check if they’re up for a long ride. You can look for these signs to determine whether you need to replace them with new tyres.

Motorcycle Toolkit

If you’re riding with your mates and you’re all dirt bike fanatics, you don’t have to bring a toolbox each. You can have one or two bring theirs and share tools as needed. Just make sure they have the ultimate motorcycle toolkit.

Bike Supplies

There are always essentials that you have to bring for your own bike. Don’t be the guy without engine oil or coolant, bumming it from everyone else. If you’re planning a long trip, you may need to change your oil in between rides.

Here’s a list of supplies you may need to bring:

And if your the full organised moto head, you will probably bring these too:

Rags
Latex gloves
Hand cleaner
Duct tape
Zip ties

Riding Gear

This is an obvious one, but sometimes we find out that we’ve forgotten a piece, two, or more. So here’s a list to help you:

Pro-tip: Bring a spare set of gear. It is always nice to put on a fresh set on day two.

Everyday Wear

Let's assume you're not sleeping in your sweat-drenched riding gear, so make sure you pack enough clothes, depending on the length of your trip.

Check the weather and pack clothes accordingly. You might end up freezing in shorts and t-shirts, or sweating it out in your trackies.

Camping Essentials

Your camping kit depends mainly on where you’re going, whether it’s a campsite or a cabin. Some accommodations have all the bells and whistles, but many cabins are nothing more than a room with a bed and a bathroom if your lucky. Do your research and bring any necessary extras you might need.

This is basic stuff but here’s a list to help you figure out what items you may need for the trip:

Water
Torch
Tent
Sleeping bag
Air mattress and air pump (optional)
Pillows
Folding chairs
Portable stove and fuel (make sure your fuel lasts the length of the trip)
Pot/pan and other cooking tools
Mug and/or insulate bottle
Silverware & plates
Pocket knife
Lighter
Rope
Toothbrush, toothpaste and other toiletries
Soap
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Hand sanitiser
Toilet paper
Wet wipes
Plastic bags and Ziploc bags

If you’re going for a short trip, you can also consider bringing ready-to-eat snacks and meals and leave the cooking kit at home. That will save you space and hassle. You can also look for pubs, cafes or restaurants around the area where you can get meals.

First-Aid Kit

You probably already carry your first-aid kit whenever you go for a ride. But it’s so important that it’s worth mentioning here. Replenish your supplies, like the bandages and pain-relief pills to make sure you have enough - for yourself or the whole group.

Your first-aid kit should include: