The most honest, practical, commonsense, and factual advice I have seen on you-tube regarding the procurement of gear for motorcycle touring. Bookmark this video for resources when planning your next road trip, or getting started... Great job on this video.
You're a wealth of resources dude!!! This was really thorough for anyone who has no idea where to start with motorcycle camping gear. It's a whole different game. My first motorcycle camping tent was a Swiss Gear 1-Person tent I snagged at a local thrift store for $7.50! It served me well for many years/trips. I got lucky at the Dream Roll one year and won a Poler tent... absolute game changer 😆
Agree. Good resource video. I transitioned from mountaineering gear to buying for motorcycle camping. There can be some nice crossover in those markets. REI, MEC, etc.
Thanks for the video and advice!! Getting ready for a cross country trip and wanted to make sure I hadn’t forgotten anything. Your video was by-far the most informed and useful resource video.
Biggest tip is probably "You don't need everything!" It is really easy to read a ton of how-to guides, watch videos of other people's kit, or just wander around REI and get into a fugue state and emerge with a shopping cart full of stuff you don't need. Start easy, start small! What do you really need? A tent - sure, ok.. but do you need a sleeping bag, or could you bring a good quilt from home? Do you need a $50 inflatable pillow, or can you make it through the night with a pillowcase stuffed with clean clothes? Do you need a fancy collapsible nesting mess kit, or do you have a plastic plate and a fork from home? Finally, practice at home first! Set up that tent in the backyard and try sleeping in it one night.. or in your sleeping bag/quilt/weird pillow in your living room.. especially if it is your first time, just take baby steps at first with gear...
That was the biggest thing about my own research of it before I started motorcycle camping last summer. My first trip ended up being a 2 week road trip (I had planned to do an single night one before that but a comedy of errors of bike repair prevented that.) The only non-emergency items I packed that I didn't use were a chair and small table, and that was only because every campsite I had came with a picnic table so they weren't things I would leave in the future anyway.
Good advice with starting at nothing and moving up but at a certain point with some experience behind your belt, it is nice to invest in some things that will help you focus less on surviving lol.
Great info, I wanna smack anyone who complains about pricing but never does any research. I am a researchaholic, but it not only saves money but saves you from buying multiple bad items Haven't had a tent in so many years that I do not remember the name, it was a dome and thats all I remember
Thank youuuuu! Same! Research is vital! I mean it's important to not get stuck in a circle indecision, buut even just a couple days of looking around and reading reviews before you buy something will save you a lot of frustration when you get something that doesn't work like you thought it would.
I used to make that mistake ... buying a cheaper version of something, only to buy the better version shortly thereafter. You don't ALWAYS get what you pay for but, in my experience that a good guideline to keep in mind.
I learned that lesson when buying a camera tripod years ago; I decided to take a bit of pro advice that I could either buy a good one up front or buy cheap and then buy the good one later anyhow.
This video was perfect timing - we need to purchase sleeping bags and jackets. I know have a wealth of knowledge on places to go to get some quality gear at a better price. Thanks so much! Chris
There’s finally a new REI coming closer to us. So I’m pumped when it does open, I’ll be there. I need more stuff for BRO and Black Top Ramble this year. Thank you so much. I just adore the insight you share. So helpful!!
Great advice! It’s good to know you can rent stuff from REI. When I was still building up my Moto camping gear, I also tried military surplus stores and sometimes amazon had some deals (in fact my current 1p tent is a lynx from amazon). My first camping tent was a 3 person Coleman tent I got from Big 5 on a Black Friday sale 😆 strapped that on the back of my S40 back in the day
Lol Awesome 🤣 Yes! You'll have to check with the branch of REI nearest you, I know not *all* branches do rentals. Especially if there's a couple in the same metro area.
Giving this video a Playlist of its own for future reference, don't need gear now but I now have a really good list of budget options instead if buying new. Your videos always get me excited to go camping again.
My local Mountain High Outfitters rents outdoor equipment and then sells it which makes for some really deep discounts. I got a 2 year old Gregory Baltoro -75 for $30
Hi Amanda. I got lost in binge watching your videos. Thank you for all the great information and insight. I know you didn’t ask for this on this video, but I lost track with all the videos that I chose to watch. First: I found your channel thanks to Her Two Wheels. Great videos and Jess is awesome! The very first rally that I went to was Americade, in Lake George, NY. I went with other friend and I was still on my learners permit, at the time! A great family friendly rally in the beautiful Adirondack mountains. Some of the most beautiful roads that I’ve ever ridden on. I’m very happy that you had a great trip and you made it home safely! I’m looking forward to seeing your videos from that journey! Thanks again and I’m glad that I have found your channel. Ride safe and be well!
Hey Amanda. I really enjoy your channel, and thanks for taking the time to allow me to come along. I've done most of my adventuring on a touring bike, but I'm getting the age where that's getting difficult. I'm entertaining the idea of getting an adventure motorcycle. Every time I watch one of your videos, it seems you're sporting a different ride. Because of this, I'm curious to see which one seems to be your favorite. I've been leaning toward the African twin for some of its features.
Another lil bit of advice from a library enthusiast: if you live in a bigger area with a bigger library, go see if you can check out some camp gear! For example, in indiana (evansville to be specific) the public library system has something called the library of things. You can check out a tent, inflatable kayak, even a hammock! I lived in evansville for about 20 years before I even found out about it, so I wish I'd checked sooner. Woulda saved me a good deal of time, money, and stress.
Thanks for teaching an old camping dog new tricks! Just started riding ADV two years ago. Used to hike (pre-internet era) and work at a non-profit group home (= less bucks for me too), so I’m always looking for bargains. I’ve really enjoyed this video and truly appreciate the thoughtful links you added. Blessings to you and Happy Camping!
Base clothing: Merino wool is the BOSS. Thin, warm/cool, resilient, durable, minimizes stink. Next best is polypropylene. I still have a zip-up turtleneck from Bellweather over 30 years old (barely fits my gaining girth) that provides instant warmth as a base layer, even wet. Good advice, Magpie!
Really smart presentation! I hope that the newbies pay attention and follow your recommendations. My first motorcycle camping tent was a tarp! The high end was the motorcycle and the low end was staked to the ground. Pretty crude, but still had a ball!
Pretty much rare, but I’ve seen great prices on camping gear at a Goodwill shop, again a bit rare. Great topic, funny editing and a positive outlook will always hold my attention. Well done young Lady. 👍🏼 😎 🇺🇸
Thanks Bradley! lol I kind of count Goodwill in the Thrift Shop category :P Although depending on the Goodwill they don't always inspect tents and stoves to see if they're all there and working XD Ask how I know! lol
Somewhere between car and hike camping...bicycle camping. And also like canoe camping!! Oh, and first tent...was something from years and years ago. Maybe from Eureka. What I remember is that it had snaps for attaching the poles. And then tent makers went through a whole phase where everyone was making tents with pockets for the poles instead. It was awful feeding tent poles through those pockets! I'm so glad to see we have gone back to lots of tents with the clip option. Although these days I'm often using my hammock instead of a tent. :)
..... I love your advice and recommendation for motorcycle camping gear. Had to find a sheet of paper to write ✍ all of your recommended sites. Thank you.
Kelty Zen. My god, how lucky I got with that being my first (now Big Agnes due to old knees, but I still have the Kelty tucked away for rough and tumble use). Amazing design, both for setup and enjoyment (big stargazing netting). This was an excellent, truly practical vid. Thanks!
I remember my first tent was a Coleman, that basic one that you can still buy today at walmart for 40 bucks. Had that tent all the way through high school.
Hey- So happy to see you out on that gorgeous bike! First tent was a Kelty two man I got for a cross country truck trip. Still using it!!! It's now 10 years old, but iv'e kept up on waterproofing it and stored it well, so it still works (with replacement shorter poles after I lost them on my first multi-day motocamping trip.)!
You are like Motocamping Yoda, only you speak better. My camping set up is an odd mix of new and expensive stuff and stuff I got for free from friends. I do like to try before I buy. I'm awkwardly proportioned and some makes of clothes are totally different sizes to others. Great vid as always.
Outstanding video. This information is super valuable. I didn’t know those websites existed. I know where I’ll be shopping for high end gear now. Thank you Amanda. 😊
Great advice. Plan ahead. Shop the sales in October for what you know you will need/want in May. Don't get caught shopping the week before your trip starts.
Great video, as always Amanda. Off to see if REI exist in the UK. End Crew answer: If you want REALLY good quality kit for very little money.... buy it 35 years ago. I still have my Blacks down filled sleeping bag which I was bought as a camping mad teenager. I also have my first outdoor camping tent which I was bought when I was 14. It is a little 2 man green nylon ridge tent with sewn in groundsheet, humdrum these days but pretty darn whizzy in 1973 I can tell you.
@@AstheMagpieFlies REI will ship to international locations (ohhh, I'm inter national, how cool), but over here there are quite a few discount warehouses and specialists. For used gear, eBay seems to be the place...... Unless someone reading this knows different!
Enjoy the content, not sure I can take camping anymore but I have some gear and am thinking of trying it this summer before I consider doing from a Bike.
Thanks so much :D I totally understand that! Have you tried a compact cot with a plush air mattress? I know that improves some people's view of camping ;P
Great tips. I agree I bought most of my gear on sale sometimes for ever more than half off. I use Trailspace.com . It is a website that lists gear with reviews and you can compare prices between many stores
@@AstheMagpieFlies Dear As the Magpie Flies, Would you mind if I ask you, as a hopeful you tube friend, if I can be one of your fans, allowed to watch your videos, as I am one of the former "enemy", an ex car driver called Tim nearly 55, from Devon England. Though I have also ridden three bicycles, a BSA Bluebell, a Triang, and a Colorado Lincoln, and have a collection of 60 motorbikes. Thank you.
Howdy, Just came across your video on RUclips , love your Channel Name "As The Magpie Flies" , that's great! My wife and I are Full Time RVers and we work - travel and sightsee our way around the U.S. Safe travels. JT & Jo-Ann
As always a great video with fantastic hints. I'm a well seasoned bikepacker looking forward to moto camping. I'll probably just start with my bicycle kit and later move to a larger tent and thicker ground pad😉. For those camping in the South East a battery powered fan is more than worth the extra weight!
Thanks so much Scott! Yess! It sound like you're already set for success! :D Oo excellent point! I'm so used to freezing my bum off at night I forget that "hot" camping exists XD
All of the "now gone" camping gear I had in the past was from Walmart mostly. Ozark Mountain tent, air mattresses, and some other small items. I have a Kelly Kettle for boiling water and I also have the pot holder for the top to cook on, the Kelly Kettle is a neat way to heat up water. It may be a little bulky for motorcycle camping and may not be usable in places that don't allow fire, although it is a contained fire that is very small. I have never tried it with sterno in a can, it may work. Sleeping bags are one extreme cold weather army and a mishmash of other cheap bags.
As always, GREAT VID!!! Your tips about bargain websites was amazing! I had no idea about them! I hope you realize how good you are at these videos, they are absolutely the BEST!!! 👍👍👍🙂
Great job on this video. Honest and concise! My favorite used gear go-to is the flea market on advrider.com. Like you said, patience is a virtue, and know what you want and how it will fit is critical!
Thanks for the tips. I used REI a lot for my trip to Nova Scotia last summer. I'm still looking for a good waterproof cargo bag, Since watching your video I have some new sources to try, but right now my number one need is a good seat cushion for those long distance trips.
Thank you for watching it :) Cargo bag? Like a Duffle? I would look at Kayaking Dry Bags! If you haven't checked them out yet lots of my friends have seats from Seat Concepts!
Asked you for advice on my next scooter a few months ago - I apologize for not taking said advice, but I'm such a durn big moose, I couldn't picture myself on a skinny bike, or anything under 1000cc's, so I bought a very low miles Valkyrie. With experience since 1968, mostly on big bikes, I know that I can ride "La Ballena" almost anywhere that the adventure-type bikes can go, I just have to use some discretion due to our combined weight. I'm still learning how to pack her for our trips, haven't found the magic balance yet, but it'll happen. I really appreciate your videos - they bring me into the here and now - when I started bike camping, we still used doped canvas and metal frames! Thank you ever-so much for inspiring this old man to getting back on the road after an 8 year hiatus (after my wife was killed on her bike). P.S., You're still cuter than a baby bunny. - JIM
When I looked at motorcycle camping (when I was an apprentice helping Noah build the ark) there was absolutely no consideration for gear. I got the usual Eye roll and eyebrow lift when I mentioned what I had planned. A lot has changed since then in the reactions I get when I bring up what I need the equipment for. Way back then......It was like the sanctity of backpacking was being infringed upon. The sales staff acted like they were the guardians of some secret guild much like the Knights Templar and seemed quite reluctant to offer up any suggestions. I agree with your suggestions 100%. Your video took a great deal of research to put together. I would add this to your recommendations. If you do not mind... 1. Tents never sleep as many people as advertised. And the most sold tent in America is made by Coleman... not a bad tent, but big, bulky and heavier than a backpackers tent. I would get as much knowledge as possible when buying this single item. 2. Weather proof is different than water proof, weather resistant means you will get wet. Take heed to this.... 3. Expensive stuff isn’t always the best stuff, stay clear of camping snobs touting their decision in gear. There is no substitute for quality but people often formulate expensive means quality. Ask a Ferrari owner how many times his car has been in the shop.. 4. Finally, no matter what is out there, get what works for you. I am 71 and don’t sleep on the ground so my camping inventory is quite different than someone that is half my age. A good brand for sleep gear for me is “Helinox” they also make a great chair. I urge folks to listen to the experience of riders like Amanda and Tim (40 times around) to name two of my favorites. Thanks to them I have some great gear from riding boots to camping cubes...Old dog - new tricks..... EDIT ITEM: My first camping tent was Off brand $20.00 pup tent. We got soaking wet when it rained middle of the night. It was awful..... Just a side note. I noticed something in the windshield of your Honda during your out-tro. Look at it and you can see “I am GROOT”"... it’s perfect....🤔😀
I don't remember who made my first tent. But it was an A frame because it was before dome tents. Yah it's been a while. Good video and advice. Thanks 👍😎
As apposed to “stuff sacks”, canoe and kayak dry bags are great for keeping clothes and camping gear dry. (Nothing nastier that rain soaked underwear and a soggy sleeping bag. 🤨). First motorcycling tent: Sears Ted Williams copy of a Timberline two man.
End screen thing, I can't remember, but was probably a Coleman of some sort or other. You covered any and every tip that I would have had (and then some, so I picked up a few), awesome and informative video, my friend, I hope you're well 😊✌
Going camping this weekend however I pull a 18 ft.³ trailer. So I have a six man real easy to put up two minute Tent. I get to have a full-size cot. Also I have a full-size gas grill that hooks on the side of my trailer. My eyes and then clothing goes in my motorcycle and that’s without any external bags. First two weeks of September spent two weeks on the road and covered 21 states almost 5400 miles. Just a little bit different style and camping and traveling
I love finding bargains on camping gear! There are a few sites here that I did not know of. Thanks! - (That being said, up until last year I was using a 20+ year old L.L. Bean tent on my moto camping adventures. Stolen from my sister years ago. I finally told her she could have it back.)
AW! Thank you Jeremy! Everything with practice! I commend you though I don't know if I could edit on the road! I normally wait until I get home to edit and post :P
My first tent many years ago was from JC Penny. My current tent is LL Bean. It's probably worth noting that many companies have discounts for folks like teachers/military/first responders.
Like anything, it’s easy to get caught up in the brand name, high priced, beat the Jones’ type gear. But using many of your previous tips and reviews I’ve assembled a really high quality, reasonably priced set of kit. I shopped the sales for months and really did well. I do wish I’d have researched the used gear though. Until recently I never knew there was such a thing! (I’m not the sharpest tent stake in the bag.) So thanks for all the new tips. 👍
So much information in just this one video.... Wow thank you so much for sharing this with us, New fan her can't wait to go through more of your content!!!! EDIT: By the way... We love the Mt. Hood Region!!! 🙌
For packing it all I got a duffle bag from an army surplus store. It's a more modern type with a top zipper and end compartments, like more common commercial duffel bags, but the classic end-close style would work too.. The double handle gave me a good place to strap through for tie-down on the passenger seat (used ROK straps) and it had the advantage of not being flashy so doesn't advertise "something interesting is inside me!" during the times I have to be away from the bike.
jUST A query: what are the Orange things strapped to your hwy bars in the front? Never seen that before and I am planing a Month trip next year up and down the rockies. ty
Awesome video. A must watch for anyone getting ready to try Moto camping. Wish I saw it before I started... would have had a lot less “extra” stuff in my basement.
haha I feel the same XD I went through two 'cheap' tents before I bit the bullet to upgrade and then couldn't believe it took me so long to upgrade. But of course I couldn't get rid of any of the other tents I bought. My "gear closet" is more of a shed at this point haha Hopefully it can save some other people the wasted space /efforts.
I believe that my first tent was a cheap dome tent that I bought at a chain store. I lasted for two or three outings before it gave up the ghost, rather violently. Good times! ;)
I definitely need new camping cookware, most of my stuff is home made & people would laugh if they saw it. But it all works for me, I will be checking out some of your stuff tho.
My first motocamping tent belonged to my girlfriend at the time. I can’t remember what it was. When we split she wanted it back, right before my big ride from Massachusetts to Cape Breton, NS. So I bought a tent at the big LL Bean store in Freeport, Maine, literally on my way to my first overnight stop!! Don’t ever do this! Fortunately for me, the two-person tent I got worked perfectly when I unpacked and set it up for the first time in eastern New Brunswick.
As the Magpie Flies use to have an EU Nc 700 now I have royal Einfield Himalayan lovely little motorcycle goes everywhere no worries and I'm starting to prepare for a little trip the reason I ended up watching your video, must say you're a very nice person and I like your videos very explicable they are and quite well made . Would like too tell you I'm subscribing and liking . Good job 😊
OH MAN!! NOW YOU TELL ME! Wonder if I can get my kidney back with the savings from some of those 2nd hand ideas....! FWIIW, my tent is a Coleman purchased in a WalMart in Hinton, AB, Canada. (not specific to motorcycling, so a slightly heavier&larger than it might be) BUT I've got to give Coleman a major plug as I've slept in it dozens and dozens of nights from Alaska to Newfoundland to SW Texas to a lovely pasture near Corvallis, MT in the Bitterroot Valley) When a pole broke.. bam, they replaced it. When zippers let go, they replaced the entire tent so technically, I'm on my second one which is now six years old. But big enough to get all my gear in on rainy nights. Wouldn't trade it for a smaller motorcycle type tent. My cooking gear from thrift stores. Good tips!
For sure! Not all Colleges offer this unfortunately, but as I understand it most State Universities do? lol Question mark because I went to a private college that def did not offer this XD Thanks Rik!
As the Magpie Flies this is pretty much a staple in Colorado, especially for the mountain campuses but 90% of the schools (community colleges included) have a gear room here:-) gotta love Colorado
*Hello!* I watched eight of your videos today and enjoyed it. I've decided to subscribe to your channel so I don't miss your next two-wheeler adventure. I am 169cm tall. How tall are you if it's not a secret? (I ask because I think the Tiger 800 is too high for *me* , so I’d like to think about watching your adventurous ride). *All* *the* *best!*
Aw! Thanks so much! I'm about 5'7" which I believe equates to 170cm. So we're probably very similar height. My Tiger does have a lowering link on it, we lowered it about 3/4 of an inch so I could tip toe both sides in case I needed to stop suddenly off-road. But I used to work at the dealership and I can ride any of the Tigers without the low seats or the lowering kit, it's all about learning to slide to one side and only put one foot down, it's the same skills that dirt bikers have to learn to ride aggressive dirt bikes with higher ground clearance. Of course do what you're makes you comfortable, but there are ways to ride bikes that feel 'too tall' ;)
Haha! I don't know about the surplus stores in your neck of the woods, but the one we got out here... well it's not always the best for finding lightweight compact gear or gear that's not going to need to be treated with waterproofing every time you use it, that's just my personal opinion though. lol Thanks D Medina!
I'm a well seasoned bikepacker and there are actually some very good surplus tents to be had at our surplus store, it's just not very consistent on supply.
Thanks so much for this! By the way, when you are traveling through areas and parks where they don't allow soft-side camping.....do you rent a cabin, just go to a hotel or what? You're in some beautiful areas, but in my imagination there's a grizzly just waiting for me to go to sleep so he can have me as a human burrito.
Hey Connie! I have never camped somewhere they don't allow tents. I understand there's quite a few campgrounds in Yellowstone like that, but most of the bear active places I've camped like Glacier and Northern Montana tents are allowed but they provide protected places to store food etc. The most important thing is just remember to talk to yourself, sing to yourself if you're by yourself because our voices are the only things that identify us as humans to bears. Bells and whistles are just curiosity things, it is so much more effective to sing to yourself. Bears don't want to be near us, most cases of bear active areas have more to do with people not properly storing their food, toiletries or anything with a smell. I have never had a hostile interaction with a bear and I grew up in Western Montana, where we regularly had black bears going through our property, I've seen cougars, fox, wolves, coyotes etc on ranch. Most Grizzly interactions in Montana happen waaaay out in the backcountry. Again education is power!
My first step towards motorcycle camping. Cruiser...cruisers have bags and bags are need for camping gear.....right? Bike didn't come with bags...ok I'll get bags. Oh look....that's a sexy seat. yup, need one of those. Holy hell! Check out that intake! and a badass slip-on by the same company!? Sign me up! Oh...My....God...that Jacket is AMAZING!!! AND IT FITS! Definitely getting this! Buddies call..."hey! You get your camping gear yet? Let's go camping." Me: ....... uh......
Cheap Durability Weight.. pick 2 of the 3. Only escape to this are the occasional clearance or super sales, but the good stuff always limited stock and go fast so plan ahead for them.
I'll try but no promises Charlie lol As someone who lives in the US it's a little harder for me to do research about resources in the EU. Maybe if enough people bother Nora, Teapot One, or Overland and Outdoors maybe they'll do something like this for Europe.
Military surplus is a great deal. Got my first Gore outer gear for 1/4 what name brand cost and after 20 years it's still going strong. Brand new gore insulated gauntlet arctic gloves surplus military cost me $35. Brand name $150-$200 and not even as warm or practical.
Not sure what this has to do with this video, but yes it has the Soupys lowering link on it, we lowered it 3/4", and raised the forks in the triple clamp 3/4" to even it out. So could tip toe both sides in an emergency, but for the most part I flat foot one side.
The most honest, practical, commonsense, and factual advice I have seen on you-tube regarding the procurement of gear for motorcycle touring. Bookmark this video for resources when planning your next road trip, or getting started... Great job on this video.
AWW! This is quite high praise, thank you so much Sheralee!
If you shop at REI's January sale you can go around saying "this is the winter of my discount tent."
XD yessss! Thanks Cindy!
You're a wealth of resources dude!!! This was really thorough for anyone who has no idea where to start with motorcycle camping gear. It's a whole different game. My first motorcycle camping tent was a Swiss Gear 1-Person tent I snagged at a local thrift store for $7.50! It served me well for many years/trips. I got lucky at the Dream Roll one year and won a Poler tent... absolute game changer 😆
AW!! Thank you friend
Agree. Good resource video. I transitioned from mountaineering gear to buying for motorcycle camping. There can be some nice crossover in those markets. REI, MEC, etc.
Thanks for the video and advice!! Getting ready for a cross country trip and wanted to make sure I hadn’t forgotten anything. Your video was by-far the most informed and useful resource video.
Great info on getting things cheaper but without limiting on the quality. I couldn't agree more.
Thanks guys! :D
Biggest tip is probably "You don't need everything!" It is really easy to read a ton of how-to guides, watch videos of other people's kit, or just wander around REI and get into a fugue state and emerge with a shopping cart full of stuff you don't need. Start easy, start small! What do you really need? A tent - sure, ok.. but do you need a sleeping bag, or could you bring a good quilt from home? Do you need a $50 inflatable pillow, or can you make it through the night with a pillowcase stuffed with clean clothes? Do you need a fancy collapsible nesting mess kit, or do you have a plastic plate and a fork from home? Finally, practice at home first! Set up that tent in the backyard and try sleeping in it one night.. or in your sleeping bag/quilt/weird pillow in your living room.. especially if it is your first time, just take baby steps at first with gear...
Thanks Kerri :3
That was the biggest thing about my own research of it before I started motorcycle camping last summer. My first trip ended up being a 2 week road trip (I had planned to do an single night one before that but a comedy of errors of bike repair prevented that.) The only non-emergency items I packed that I didn't use were a chair and small table, and that was only because every campsite I had came with a picnic table so they weren't things I would leave in the future anyway.
Good advice with starting at nothing and moving up but at a certain point with some experience behind your belt, it is nice to invest in some things that will help you focus less on surviving lol.
Great resources as usual Amanda! I love the content you provide. Keep up the great work!
Thank you! :D I'm glad it was helpful! I'll try my best haha
Great info, I wanna smack anyone who complains about pricing but never does any research. I am a researchaholic, but it not only saves money but saves you from buying multiple bad items
Haven't had a tent in so many years that I do not remember the name, it was a dome and thats all I remember
Thank youuuuu! Same!
Research is vital! I mean it's important to not get stuck in a circle indecision, buut even just a couple days of looking around and reading reviews before you buy something will save you a lot of frustration when you get something that doesn't work like you thought it would.
I used to make that mistake ... buying a cheaper version of something, only to buy the better version shortly thereafter. You don't ALWAYS get what you pay for but, in my experience that a good guideline to keep in mind.
I learned that lesson when buying a camera tripod years ago; I decided to take a bit of pro advice that I could either buy a good one up front or buy cheap and then buy the good one later anyhow.
This video was perfect timing - we need to purchase sleeping bags and jackets. I know have a wealth of knowledge on places to go to get some quality gear at a better price. Thanks so much! Chris
I'm so glad! :D Sending you luck for finding some awesome sleeping bags and jackets!
There’s finally a new REI coming closer to us. So I’m pumped when it does open, I’ll be there. I need more stuff for BRO and Black Top Ramble this year. Thank you so much. I just adore the insight you share. So helpful!!
Awesome!! :D
AW! Thank you so much Whit
Great advice! It’s good to know you can rent stuff from REI. When I was still building up my Moto camping gear, I also tried military surplus stores and sometimes amazon had some deals (in fact my current 1p tent is a lynx from amazon). My first camping tent was a 3 person Coleman tent I got from Big 5 on a Black Friday sale 😆 strapped that on the back of my S40 back in the day
Lol Awesome 🤣
Yes! You'll have to check with the branch of REI nearest you, I know not *all* branches do rentals. Especially if there's a couple in the same metro area.
Giving this video a Playlist of its own for future reference, don't need gear now but I now have a really good list of budget options instead if buying new. Your videos always get me excited to go camping again.
AW Thanks! I'm so glad it was helpful!
What a wonderfully articulate and well put together video. Thank you for taking the time to do this and including all the resource info too!
Thank you so much! I'm glad it was helpful and easy to understand! :D
My local Mountain High Outfitters rents outdoor equipment and then sells it which makes for some really deep discounts. I got a 2 year old Gregory Baltoro -75 for $30
Hi Amanda. I got lost in binge watching your videos. Thank you for all the great information and insight. I know you didn’t ask for this on this video, but I lost track with all the videos that I chose to watch. First: I found your channel thanks to Her Two Wheels. Great videos and Jess is awesome! The very first rally that I went to was Americade, in Lake George, NY. I went with other friend and I was still on my learners permit, at the time! A great family friendly rally in the beautiful Adirondack mountains. Some of the most beautiful roads that I’ve ever ridden on. I’m very happy that you had a great trip and you made it home safely! I’m looking forward to seeing your videos from that journey! Thanks again and I’m glad that I have found your channel. Ride safe and be well!
haha Thanks so much Roy! I'm glad you've enjoyed them :)
Welcome to the Magpie Fam :D
Hey Amanda. I really enjoy your channel, and thanks for taking the time to allow me to come along. I've done most of my adventuring on a touring bike, but I'm getting the age where that's getting difficult. I'm entertaining the idea of getting an adventure motorcycle. Every time I watch one of your videos, it seems you're sporting a different ride. Because of this, I'm curious to see which one seems to be your favorite. I've been leaning toward the African twin for some of its features.
Another lil bit of advice from a library enthusiast: if you live in a bigger area with a bigger library, go see if you can check out some camp gear! For example, in indiana (evansville to be specific) the public library system has something called the library of things. You can check out a tent, inflatable kayak, even a hammock! I lived in evansville for about 20 years before I even found out about it, so I wish I'd checked sooner. Woulda saved me a good deal of time, money, and stress.
Thanks for teaching an old camping dog new tricks! Just started riding ADV two years ago. Used to hike (pre-internet era) and work at a non-profit group home (= less bucks for me too), so I’m always looking for bargains. I’ve really enjoyed this video and truly appreciate the thoughtful links you added. Blessings to you and Happy Camping!
Right on! Thanks so much Kevin, I'm glad it was useful! .
Base clothing: Merino wool is the BOSS. Thin, warm/cool, resilient, durable, minimizes stink. Next best is polypropylene. I still have a zip-up turtleneck from Bellweather over 30 years old (barely fits my gaining girth) that provides instant warmth as a base layer, even wet. Good advice, Magpie!
Really smart presentation! I hope that the newbies pay attention and follow your recommendations. My first motorcycle camping tent was a tarp! The high end was the motorcycle and the low end was staked to the ground. Pretty crude, but still had a ball!
Thanks so much Hal!
Very minimalist :P
Pretty much rare, but I’ve seen great prices on camping gear at a Goodwill shop, again a bit rare. Great topic, funny editing and a positive outlook will always hold my attention. Well done young Lady. 👍🏼 😎 🇺🇸
Thanks Bradley! lol
I kind of count Goodwill in the Thrift Shop category :P Although depending on the Goodwill they don't always inspect tents and stoves to see if they're all there and working XD Ask how I know! lol
Great point, still love the passion you promote in these complicated endeavors. 👍🏼 😎 🍀
Awesome tips! My first tent was a $5 dome tent I picked up at my neighbor's garage sale! Lasted for years (for fair weather camping.)
Somewhere between car and hike camping...bicycle camping. And also like canoe camping!! Oh, and first tent...was something from years and years ago. Maybe from Eureka. What I remember is that it had snaps for attaching the poles. And then tent makers went through a whole phase where everyone was making tents with pockets for the poles instead. It was awful feeding tent poles through those pockets! I'm so glad to see we have gone back to lots of tents with the clip option. Although these days I'm often using my hammock instead of a tent. :)
Thanks Meghan :D
I haaated the tent I had that had the pockets for the poles, it was sooo dumb.
..... I love your advice and recommendation for motorcycle camping gear. Had to find a sheet of paper to write ✍ all of your recommended sites. Thank you.
I have never heard of any of these sites before. Great video. Thanks. Subscribed!
Awesome, thank you!
Welcome to the Magpie Fam! :D
Kelty Zen. My god, how lucky I got with that being my first (now Big Agnes due to old knees, but I still have the Kelty tucked away for rough and tumble use). Amazing design, both for setup and enjoyment (big stargazing netting). This was an excellent, truly practical vid. Thanks!
I remember my first tent was a Coleman, that basic one that you can still buy today at walmart for 40 bucks. Had that tent all the way through high school.
Awesome! :D
Hey- So happy to see you out on that gorgeous bike! First tent was a Kelty two man I got for a cross country truck trip. Still using it!!! It's now 10 years old, but iv'e kept up on waterproofing it and stored it well, so it still works (with replacement shorter poles after I lost them on my first multi-day motocamping trip.)!
Awesome!! Proof that taking good care of your gear extends their life! 😊 thanks Thomas!
You are like Motocamping Yoda, only you speak better.
My camping set up is an odd mix of new and expensive stuff and stuff I got for free from friends.
I do like to try before I buy. I'm awkwardly proportioned and some makes of clothes are totally different sizes to others.
Great vid as always.
AWW Thank you Paddy :3
That is the BEST mix of camping gear!
@@AstheMagpieFlies I'll be allowed to use it again on June 12th when the restrictions ease up again. Can't bloody wait!
Really well thought out and presented video. One day I hope to get over to Oregon seems a nice place.
Thanks so much! :D
I hope you do! It's beautiful!
Outstanding video. This information is super valuable. I didn’t know those websites existed. I know where I’ll be shopping for high end gear now. Thank you Amanda. 😊
❤️❤️ thanks Jess! Glad I could help!
Great advice. Plan ahead. Shop the sales in October for what you know you will need/want in May. Don't get caught shopping the week before your trip starts.
Thanks so much :D Yesss! Buying gear right before a long trip is just asking for disasters lol
Great video, as always Amanda. Off to see if REI exist in the UK. End Crew answer: If you want REALLY good quality kit for very little money.... buy it 35 years ago. I still have my Blacks down filled sleeping bag which I was bought as a camping mad teenager. I also have my first outdoor camping tent which I was bought when I was 14. It is a little 2 man green nylon ridge tent with sewn in groundsheet, humdrum these days but pretty darn whizzy in 1973 I can tell you.
lol Not that I'm aware of Neil I'm sorry. There's gotta be a different outdoor gear co-op of some sort in the Uk though!
lol That is awesome! :D
@@AstheMagpieFlies REI will ship to international locations (ohhh, I'm inter national, how cool), but over here there are quite a few discount warehouses and specialists. For used gear, eBay seems to be the place...... Unless someone reading this knows different!
Girl thank you so very much for this video! You are the Best! We love you from Anaheim California 🇺🇸😘👍😂
Enjoy the content, not sure I can take camping anymore but I have some gear and am thinking of trying it this summer before I consider doing from a Bike.
Thanks so much :D
I totally understand that! Have you tried a compact cot with a plush air mattress? I know that improves some people's view of camping ;P
@@AstheMagpieFlies No but I will look into it. I bought a DR650 to start doing some off road stuff and getting back to nature more.
Great tips. I agree I bought most of my gear on sale sometimes for ever more than half off. I use Trailspace.com . It is a website that lists gear with reviews and you can compare prices between many stores
Great tip! Thanks for sharing! :D
@@AstheMagpieFlies Dear As the Magpie Flies,
Would you mind if I ask you, as a hopeful you tube friend, if I can be one of your fans, allowed to watch your videos, as I am one of the former "enemy", an ex car driver called Tim nearly 55, from Devon England.
Though I have also ridden three bicycles, a BSA Bluebell, a Triang, and a Colorado Lincoln, and have a collection of 60 motorbikes. Thank you.
Howdy,
Just came across your video on RUclips , love your Channel Name "As The Magpie Flies" , that's great!
My wife and I are Full Time RVers and we work - travel and sightsee our way around the U.S.
Safe travels.
JT & Jo-Ann
Thanks so much JT &Jo-Ann!
Thank you so much for this useful video. Very useful for moto camping newbies.
As always a great video with fantastic hints. I'm a well seasoned bikepacker looking forward to moto camping. I'll probably just start with my bicycle kit and later move to a larger tent and thicker ground pad😉. For those camping in the South East a battery powered fan is more than worth the extra weight!
Thanks so much Scott!
Yess! It sound like you're already set for success! :D
Oo excellent point! I'm so used to freezing my bum off at night I forget that "hot" camping exists XD
All of the "now gone" camping gear I had in the past was from Walmart mostly. Ozark Mountain tent, air mattresses, and some other small items. I have a Kelly Kettle for boiling water and I also have the pot holder for the top to cook on, the Kelly Kettle is a neat way to heat up water. It may be a little bulky for motorcycle camping and may not be usable in places that don't allow fire, although it is a contained fire that is very small. I have never tried it with sterno in a can, it may work. Sleeping bags are one extreme cold weather army and a mishmash of other cheap bags.
As always, GREAT VID!!! Your tips about bargain websites was amazing! I had no idea about them! I hope you realize how good you are at these videos, they are absolutely the BEST!!! 👍👍👍🙂
Thanks so much!! That means so much to me, thank you Michael, I'm glad they're useful!
Some good advice I plan to go camping on my own in the summer on my harley in Northern Ireland..
Great job on this video. Honest and concise! My favorite used gear go-to is the flea market on advrider.com. Like you said, patience is a virtue, and know what you want and how it will fit is critical!
Thanks for the tips. I used REI a lot for my trip to Nova Scotia last summer. I'm still looking for a good waterproof cargo bag, Since watching your video I have some new sources to try, but right now my number one need is a good seat cushion for those long distance trips.
Thank you for watching it :)
Cargo bag? Like a Duffle? I would look at Kayaking Dry Bags!
If you haven't checked them out yet lots of my friends have seats from Seat Concepts!
@@AstheMagpieFlies Thank you! I’ll look into it.
Asked you for advice on my next scooter a few months ago - I apologize for not taking said advice, but I'm such a durn big moose, I couldn't picture myself on a skinny bike, or anything under 1000cc's, so I bought a very low miles Valkyrie. With experience since 1968, mostly on big bikes, I know that I can ride "La Ballena" almost anywhere that the adventure-type bikes can go, I just have to use some discretion due to our combined weight. I'm still learning how to pack her for our trips, haven't found the magic balance yet, but it'll happen. I really appreciate your videos - they bring me into the here and now - when I started bike camping, we still used doped canvas and metal frames! Thank you ever-so much for inspiring this old man to getting back on the road after an 8 year hiatus (after my wife was killed on her bike). P.S., You're still cuter than a baby bunny. - JIM
lol no worries! I'm glad you got something that works for you! :D
@@AstheMagpieFlies keep these videos coming, Kiddo! Old dawgs need new tricks!
When I looked at motorcycle camping (when I was an apprentice helping Noah build the ark) there was absolutely no consideration for gear. I got the usual Eye roll and eyebrow lift when I mentioned what I had planned. A lot has changed since then in the reactions I get when I bring up what I need the equipment for. Way back then......It was like the sanctity of backpacking was being infringed upon. The sales staff acted like they were the guardians of some secret guild much like the Knights Templar and seemed quite reluctant to offer up any suggestions. I agree with your suggestions 100%. Your video took a great deal of research to put together. I would add this to your recommendations. If you do not mind...
1. Tents never sleep as many people as advertised. And the most sold tent in America is made by Coleman... not a bad tent, but big, bulky and heavier than a backpackers tent. I would get as much knowledge as possible when buying this single item.
2. Weather proof is different than water proof, weather resistant means you will get wet. Take heed to this....
3. Expensive stuff isn’t always the best stuff, stay clear of camping snobs touting their decision in gear. There is no substitute for quality but people often formulate expensive means quality. Ask a Ferrari owner how many times his car has been in the shop..
4. Finally, no matter what is out there, get what works for you. I am 71 and don’t sleep on the ground so my camping inventory is quite different than someone that is half my age. A good brand for sleep gear for me is “Helinox” they also make a great chair.
I urge folks to listen to the experience of riders like Amanda and Tim (40 times around) to name two of my favorites. Thanks to them I have some great gear from riding boots to camping cubes...Old dog - new tricks.....
EDIT ITEM: My first camping tent was Off brand $20.00 pup tent. We got soaking wet when it rained middle of the night. It was awful.....
Just a side note. I noticed something in the windshield of your Honda during your out-tro. Look at it and you can see “I am GROOT”"... it’s perfect....🤔😀
Thanks Roger :)
I don't remember who made my first tent. But it was an A frame because it was before dome tents. Yah it's been a while. Good video and advice. Thanks 👍😎
Awesome :D Thanks David!
A lot of really good information. Thanks 👍
As apposed to “stuff sacks”, canoe and kayak dry bags are great for keeping clothes and camping gear dry. (Nothing nastier that rain soaked underwear and a soggy sleeping bag. 🤨). First motorcycling tent: Sears Ted Williams copy of a Timberline two man.
Dry Bags are amazing! Highly recommend.
I use stuff sacks and packing cubes. These go into dry bags which then go into my panniers. No worries about wet clothes.
End screen thing, I can't remember, but was probably a Coleman of some sort or other. You covered any and every tip that I would have had (and then some, so I picked up a few), awesome and informative video, my friend, I hope you're well 😊✌
Thank you friend :3 !
@@AstheMagpieFlies 👍😁
Going camping this weekend however I pull a 18 ft.³ trailer. So I have a six man real easy to put up two minute Tent. I get to have a full-size cot. Also I have a full-size gas grill that hooks on the side of my trailer. My eyes and then clothing goes in my motorcycle and that’s without any external bags. First two weeks of September spent two weeks on the road and covered 21 states almost 5400 miles. Just a little bit different style and camping and traveling
Great tips Amanda. Thanks!
My first tent?
Wasn't a tent at all......it was a sleeping bag and a tarp.
Woo! Cowboy camping! Lol thanks Critter
I used a Northface 4 season 2 man tent I used for backpacking. Still have it but bought a larger Marmot 3P for added room for more gear.
I love finding bargains on camping gear! There are a few sites here that I did not know of. Thanks! - (That being said, up until last year I was using a 20+ year old L.L. Bean tent on my moto camping adventures. Stolen from my sister years ago. I finally told her she could have it back.)
Lol! I love it!
Thanks for the laugh Aimee
Nice editing and camera/audio work. This RUclips thing is a steep learning curve! Oh, and good content, too. :-)
AW! Thank you Jeremy! Everything with practice!
I commend you though I don't know if I could edit on the road! I normally wait until I get home to edit and post :P
Thank you for your tipps and review from Germany❤❤❤
Thanks for watching!
My first tent many years ago was from JC Penny. My current tent is LL Bean. It's probably worth noting that many companies have discounts for folks like teachers/military/first responders.
Thanks Randy :)
Like anything, it’s easy to get caught up in the brand name, high priced, beat the Jones’ type gear. But using many of your previous tips and reviews I’ve assembled a really high quality, reasonably priced set of kit. I shopped the sales for months and really did well. I do wish I’d have researched the used gear though. Until recently I never knew there was such a thing! (I’m not the sharpest tent stake in the bag.) So thanks for all the new tips. 👍
Yess! *claps* Find what works for you :)
Thanks BradB!
So much information in just this one video.... Wow thank you so much for sharing this with us, New fan her can't wait to go through more of your content!!!!
EDIT: By the way... We love the Mt. Hood Region!!! 🙌
Thanks so much Brianna! I'm glad it was useful!! :D
@12:30 Up, up and away it's... Super Amanda! At least that is what I imagine hearing... hehe
Fantastic tips. Glad to see you out riding.
haha! Thank you Sean :D
Great to see you out riding again!
Thanks :D
For packing it all I got a duffle bag from an army surplus store. It's a more modern type with a top zipper and end compartments, like more common commercial duffel bags, but the classic end-close style would work too.. The double handle gave me a good place to strap through for tie-down on the passenger seat (used ROK straps) and it had the advantage of not being flashy so doesn't advertise "something interesting is inside me!" during the times I have to be away from the bike.
Thanks Danielle!
Great info. Amazing info!!! My 1st tent was my dad's old Army pup ⛺. Look forward to looking through these sites.
Thanks Nick!!
Super vid with lots of great info sharing!!!
Thanks so much! :D
jUST A query: what are the Orange things strapped to your hwy bars in the front? Never seen that before and I am planing a Month trip next year up and down the rockies. ty
Great material. Thanks for sharing.🙂
Glad it was helpful!
AWESOME advise. THANK YOU
your smile makes me smile amanda 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊👍👍👍👍👍❤💖💖💖💖💖💖
AW! Thank you Toby!
Waaaassuuuup. So rad seeing you run around. 🙂😎😆 Camping tip, hmm,... tweezers.
LOL! Thank you Mike!
Awesome video. A must watch for anyone getting ready to try Moto camping. Wish I saw it before I started... would have had a lot less “extra” stuff in my basement.
haha I feel the same XD I went through two 'cheap' tents before I bit the bullet to upgrade and then couldn't believe it took me so long to upgrade. But of course I couldn't get rid of any of the other tents I bought. My "gear closet" is more of a shed at this point haha Hopefully it can save some other people the wasted space /efforts.
I believe that my first tent was a cheap dome tent that I bought at a chain store. I lasted for two or three outings before it gave up the ghost, rather violently. Good times! ;)
haha ya that sounds like my experience with a cheap dome tent lol
Subscribed! Great content Amanda, thanks for the websites, now only to find out who ships to 🇦🇺.
Thanks so much! Stoked to welcome you to the Magpie Family! :D
I definitely need new camping cookware, most of my stuff is home made & people would laugh if they saw it. But it all works for me, I will be checking out some of your stuff tho.
Hey if it ain't broke don't fix it right :P
Great info. The wife is taking notes!
Glad it was helpful :D
My first motocamping tent belonged to my girlfriend at the time. I can’t remember what it was. When we split she wanted it back, right before my big ride from Massachusetts to Cape Breton, NS. So I bought a tent at the big LL Bean store in Freeport, Maine, literally on my way to my first overnight stop!! Don’t ever do this! Fortunately for me, the two-person tent I got worked perfectly when I unpacked and set it up for the first time in eastern New Brunswick.
Thanks Justin! :D haha hey borrowed gear is the best gear sometimes or at least until they ask for it back XD
Glad your new gear worked out!
Nice CBX
thanks buck!
As the Magpie Flies use to have an EU Nc 700 now I have royal Einfield Himalayan lovely little motorcycle goes everywhere no worries and I'm starting to prepare for a little trip the reason I ended up watching your video, must say you're a very nice person and I like your videos very explicable they are and quite well made . Would like too tell you I'm subscribing and liking . Good job 😊
OH MAN!! NOW YOU TELL ME! Wonder if I can get my kidney back with the savings from some of those 2nd hand ideas....! FWIIW, my tent is a Coleman purchased in a WalMart in Hinton, AB, Canada. (not specific to motorcycling, so a slightly heavier&larger than it might be) BUT I've got to give Coleman a major plug as I've slept in it dozens and dozens of nights from Alaska to Newfoundland to SW Texas to a lovely pasture near Corvallis, MT in the Bitterroot Valley) When a pole broke.. bam, they replaced it. When zippers let go, they replaced the entire tent so technically, I'm on my second one which is now six years old. But big enough to get all my gear in on rainy nights. Wouldn't trade it for a smaller motorcycle type tent. My cooking gear from thrift stores. Good tips!
Lol! Thanks Richard 😊
Great info the wife is taking notes!
haha! Glad I could offer some help :) Links to all the websites are in the description! ;)
Thanks Amanda, love ya work 😄
Thank you Bruce! :)
My first tent was a tiny little A_Fram pup tent I got when I was in the Boy Scouts in the 1980s.
!! Awesome!! :D Thanks Tim!
Very Good Information !, Thank You. !
Thank you for watching it! :)
what bike r u riding
What pants are you wearing? They look great.
Scorpion EXO Yosemite
@@AstheMagpieFlies thanks...now how should I pronouce that? LOL
great, good luck 🙏
Comprehensive! Wow great energy! ~end crew~ Marine grade dry bag works at half the cost of moto dry bag mmhhmm ;)
Thank you Pete! :3
for Real!
Don’t forget about campus gear rental spots for students!!! Often times free. North face tadpole & Black Diamond megamid
For sure! Not all Colleges offer this unfortunately, but as I understand it most State Universities do? lol Question mark because I went to a private college that def did not offer this XD
Thanks Rik!
As the Magpie Flies this is pretty much a staple in Colorado, especially for the mountain campuses but 90% of the schools (community colleges included) have a gear room here:-) gotta love Colorado
Excellent info. Thank you. 🙂
Glad it was helpful!
Enjoyed the vid!!!
I like to say I will be kayak/canoe camping. Lightweight, but not ultralight, and waterproof!
yes! another great way to connect with outdoor store staff!
*Hello!*
I watched eight of your videos today and enjoyed it. I've decided to subscribe to your channel so I don't miss your next two-wheeler adventure.
I am 169cm tall. How tall are you if it's not a secret? (I ask because I think the Tiger 800 is too high for *me* , so I’d like to think about watching your adventurous ride).
*All* *the* *best!*
Aw! Thanks so much!
I'm about 5'7" which I believe equates to 170cm. So we're probably very similar height. My Tiger does have a lowering link on it, we lowered it about 3/4 of an inch so I could tip toe both sides in case I needed to stop suddenly off-road. But I used to work at the dealership and I can ride any of the Tigers without the low seats or the lowering kit, it's all about learning to slide to one side and only put one foot down, it's the same skills that dirt bikers have to learn to ride aggressive dirt bikes with higher ground clearance.
Of course do what you're makes you comfortable, but there are ways to ride bikes that feel 'too tall' ;)
I swore u where gonna say military surplus lol-and ebay is a great start for old models-once again great video and great advice- stay awesome
Haha! I don't know about the surplus stores in your neck of the woods, but the one we got out here... well it's not always the best for finding lightweight compact gear or gear that's not going to need to be treated with waterproofing every time you use it, that's just my personal opinion though. lol Thanks D Medina!
@@AstheMagpieFlies i am retired army guy and stayed in the ft sill area so theres tons here but i am tired of army gear so i order alot of mine - 😋
I'm a well seasoned bikepacker and there are actually some very good surplus tents to be had at our surplus store, it's just not very consistent on supply.
Thanks so much for this! By the way, when you are traveling through areas and parks where they don't allow soft-side camping.....do you rent a cabin, just go to a hotel or what? You're in some beautiful areas, but in my imagination there's a grizzly just waiting for me to go to sleep so he can have me as a human burrito.
Hey Connie! I have never camped somewhere they don't allow tents. I understand there's quite a few campgrounds in Yellowstone like that, but most of the bear active places I've camped like Glacier and Northern Montana tents are allowed but they provide protected places to store food etc.
The most important thing is just remember to talk to yourself, sing to yourself if you're by yourself because our voices are the only things that identify us as humans to bears. Bells and whistles are just curiosity things, it is so much more effective to sing to yourself. Bears don't want to be near us, most cases of bear active areas have more to do with people not properly storing their food, toiletries or anything with a smell. I have never had a hostile interaction with a bear and I grew up in Western Montana, where we regularly had black bears going through our property, I've seen cougars, fox, wolves, coyotes etc on ranch. Most Grizzly interactions in Montana happen waaaay out in the backcountry. Again education is power!
My first step towards motorcycle camping. Cruiser...cruisers have bags and bags are need for camping gear.....right? Bike didn't come with bags...ok I'll get bags. Oh look....that's a sexy seat. yup, need one of those. Holy hell! Check out that intake! and a badass slip-on by the same company!? Sign me up! Oh...My....God...that Jacket is AMAZING!!! AND IT FITS! Definitely getting this!
Buddies call..."hey! You get your camping gear yet? Let's go camping."
Me: ....... uh......
XD Thanks for the laugh Christopher!
Awesome advice!
Thanks so much Dave!
Cheap Durability Weight.. pick 2 of the 3. Only escape to this are the occasional clearance or super sales, but the good stuff always limited stock and go fast so plan ahead for them.
Great advice. Please do one for European people 🙏
I'll try but no promises Charlie lol As someone who lives in the US it's a little harder for me to do research about resources in the EU. Maybe if enough people bother Nora, Teapot One, or Overland and Outdoors maybe they'll do something like this for Europe.
Military surplus is a great deal. Got my first Gore outer gear for 1/4 what name brand cost and after 20 years it's still going strong. Brand new gore insulated gauntlet arctic gloves surplus military cost me $35. Brand name $150-$200 and not even as warm or practical.
👍
Is your tiger 800 lowered?
Not sure what this has to do with this video, but yes it has the Soupys lowering link on it, we lowered it 3/4", and raised the forks in the triple clamp 3/4" to even it out. So could tip toe both sides in an emergency, but for the most part I flat foot one side.
I gotta learn how to moto-camping!
Heck yes! :D Between Tim (FTA Adventures) and I we've got you covered!
1/2 of an Army pup-tent. We had to partner with another Soldier to put our halves together.