Packing for a long journey is one of the most difficult things to do. There is no correct way to fill your luggage but taking a few short weekend trips will greatly help filter out the needs from the wants. Some argue that its best to just pack just the bare essentials, hit the road with a credit card and buy as you go, others pack as if they are prepared to never see civilization again.

The most important thing when packing is to know your max weight loading for both the suspension and the panniers. The KLR has a max load of 182kgs (401 lbs) and most pannier frames should not exceed 30lbs. This load limit includes the rider, so if you want to bring all the amenities it’s time to hit the treadmill.

When packing its best to lay everything out, go over the checklist one last time then start filling the packs. It is very important to weigh the items to ensure weight distribution is even across the bike. If the bike is heavier on one side speed wobbles are more likely and handling is very difficult. It’s almost impossible to make everything perfectly balanced so always place the heavier side on the left of the bike where the kick stand is. This will ensure your bike will rest correctly on the stand when parked instead of wanting to flip over.

Clothing List
Clothing Packed
Gear Packed
Gear Packed

 

Accessibility is key. A few rules can make things a lot easier when travelling.

  1. Medical kits are exposed and everyone should be able to access them. I recommend having one on each side. Rarely is your bike standing when you need medical supplies, having one on each side under the skid plate ensures access.
  2. Stoves generally smell like gas even after use. Place them in a separate pannier from your clothing unless you want to smell like “Eau de Gasoline”
  3. Heaver things on bottom
  4. Compression sacks are awesome for clothing. Ensure to bring a spare for laundry

Here is my basic gear list.

Clothing

  • 5 synthetic socks
  • 5 ExOfficio underwear
  • 4 synthetic shirts
  • 2 cotton shirts
  • 3 long sleeve shirts
  • 1 wool pants
  • 1 wool sweater
  • Rain suit
  • Extra riding gloves
  • 1 Jeans

Gear

  • Tent (REI Half Dome)
  • Sleeping Bag (Teton Sport)
  • MSR Whisperlight International
  • MSR Fuel Bottle x2
  • Cook set
  • SteriPen
  • Knife
  • Hammock
  • Self inflating mattress.
  • SPOT Tracker
  • Tool Kit
Ready to Ride
Ready to Ride