Marisa’s Fly-and-Ride Packing Essentials
Flying with motorcycle gear comes with my job. After years of traveling around the world with my precious riding gear, camera equipment, and other motorcycling essentials, I’ve got my packing down to a science.
Here are the most common items I’ll pack for a fly-and-ride trip. For tips on packing for your fly-and-ride, click here.
Maxpedition Fliegerduffel Adventure Bag
This has been my go-to duffle for fly-and-rides for over a decade. It’s made to the exact dimensions of acceptable carry-on luggage (on most airlines, anyway).
The bag fits a helmet in the bottom with plenty of room for other items on top. For extra space, don’t forget to store some of your clothes inside your helmet.
$193
Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Roller Bag
My favorite thing about this roller bag is the quiet wheels. It’s also easy to pack, thanks to its internal organization pockets.
I use this carry-on roller on about 80% of my fly-and-rides. If you have somewhere you can leave this bag while you’re on your ride, then having a roller bag makes navigating airports much easier. If you are flying into and out of different airports, you’ll need to opt for a more compact duffle that you can pack on the bike.
$230
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote
This bag, or anything similar, is great because it not only works as your clothing organizer, but also as an easy bag to throw on your back to carry items into a hotel room at night.
It has backpack straps and internal and external organization pockets.
$139
Klim Tool Pak
It’s simply not responsible to travel without tools on a motorcycle trip. Klim’s Tool Pak keeps all your wrenches and other tools in place.
Keep in mind that there are restrictions on what tools you carry on a plane, so be sure to consider your choices carefully (or put your tools in a checked bag if you have one).
$19.99
Klim K Forty 2 Jeans
These jeans are incredibly comfortable, yet still protective. They also double as a nice pair of pants for going to dinner or socializing in the evenings. They pack down well, too.
$279.99
Gaerne Balanced Oiled Boots
While I’ve worn many boots over the years, these are the ones I usually pick for just about any type of riding trip. They are comfortable, look great with any type of riding gear, and pack well in a roller bag. To save space, be sure to stuff them with your extra socks and underwear.
$419
Klim Torrent Pants and Forecast Jacket
You’ll want to be prepared for any type of weather on a motorcycle trip. These pants and jacket from Klim not only act as a rain layer, but also help keep you warm if the temperature drops.
I suggest sizing up by two sizes with the pants and one size with the jacket to allow for a variety of gear or layers underneath.
$629
Rok Straps
These straps are small but mighty. They loop around any part of the frame or luggage rack on the bike, then snap together in the middle.
If you find yourself needing to carry something in an unexpected way, having a pair of Rok straps will save the day. I don’t leave home without them.
$20
Shoei GT Air 3 Helmet
A quality helmet is important, and the Shoei GT Air 3 is a great option. Be sure to carry the helmet with you on the plane, even if you choose to check a bag.
$749
Fanttik X9 Pro
The Fanttik X9 Pro is a very compact option for a tire inflator and usually travels with my tool kit. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere with a flat tire.
It’s battery operated, so charge it up before you leave. It will inflate motorcycle (or car) tires quickly so you can get back on the road.
$60
Klim Marrakesh Jacket
Klim makes some of the most comfortable riding gear there is, including this jacket. The Marrakesh features four-way stretch fabric, and offers impact and abrasion resistance. It’s also just a nice looking riding jacket for any type of riding. Read the review here.
$419
Klim Dakar Pro Gloves
Lightweight and comfortable, Klim’s Dakar Pro gloves are always in my bag. I might opt for a heavier glove if the weather is going to be very cold, but I still always pack these with me.
$70
RoadRUNNER Icon Patch Hat
Keep helmet hair at bay and represent your favorite motorcycle magazine with the RoadRUNNER Icon Patch hat. Available in gray or green in the shop now.
$35
RoadRUNNER Buff
Keeping your neck covered is easy with the RoadRUNNER buff. Protect yourself from windburn and sunburn, and stay warm on chilly rides. Available in the shop now.
$25
GoPro Hero 13 Black
I almost always travel with a GoPro so I can document my rides and share them with friends, family, and RoadRUNNER readers. The Hero 13 Black records footage in up to 5K resolution, so you can immortalize your adventure in minute detail. Read the review of the 12 here.
$399
Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L
This small camera sling keeps my precious photography equipment safe and dry on every motorcycle trip. It fits easily into most topcases and saddlebags. I’ve also used Rok straps to tie it to the back of the seat when luggage was not available.
$100
Peak Design Tech Pouch
This is where I keep all my tech items. Cables, chargers, SD cards, adapters, and more will all fit in this handy tech pouch. It’s got a variety of easy to access pockets to keep things organized.
$60
Patagonia Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
If you see me on a motorcycle ride, chances are, I’m rocking a hip pack. The Patagonia Black Hole hip pack is where I keep my phone and wallet for easy access. It’s just large enough for the essentials and keeps my pockets empty (my personal preference). I always secure the bag to my belt with an extra carabiner.
$40