Traveling by motorcycle lets you discover off-the-beaten-path routes, meet new people, savor a sense of freedom, and fully immerse yourself in any landscape.
However, planning a motorcycle holiday, especially for beginners, can be challenging. Every detail needs attention—routes, stops, and luggage—while leaving room for spontaneity. Here are some essential tips to get ready for a two-wheeled trip, advice on the best motorcycle apparel, and ideas for unforgettable motorcycle vacations.
How to Organize a Motorcycle Trip
No two motorcycle journeys are alike—it all depends on your personal style. Some rely on a GPS, others prefer a road map with marked destinations. You might travel solo or with a partner. While some choose the comfort of a hotel (which should be booked in advance, especially in summer), others embrace the adventure with a tent for a full-on road trip experience. If you camp, make sure the tent is comfortable—after a day in the saddle, a good night’s sleep is essential. Don’t forget a compact gas stove if you’ll be staying far from towns.
For longer motorcycle holidays, it’s wise to carry a repair kit including spare spark plugs, an inner tube, and tire spray. Remember your camera or a smartphone with a good lens, plus a power bank to recharge on the go. Before setting off, always check you have all your personal ID and your motorcycle documents.
Motorcycle Touring: Top Routes & Destinations
Italy is a fantastic country for motorcycle touring, offering endless places to explore from North to South. Beyond the famous lakes—Como, Maggiore, and Garda—you’ll find scenic tours in the Langhe region and stunning rides all the way to the Cinque Terre. Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast are ideal for nature lovers, while in 2019, Matera—European Capital of Culture—was a top pick for culture enthusiasts.
There’s plenty to explore in the Balkans as well—Albania and Montenegro offer real surprises, while France, Austria, Greece, and Ireland never disappoint motorcycle travelers.
What to Wear on Motorcycle Trips
One of the most common questions is what to pack for a motorcycle holiday. Motorcycle bags aren’t large, so keep your load light to make travel easier. Besides basic toiletries, carefully select only the essentials focusing on comfort and safety.
Clothing for motorbike travel depends on the season and your sensitivity to hot and cold. Essentials include a suit with a rainproof layer—vital for staying dry—and a thermal shirt, ideally wool, to protect from both heat and cold.
A single outfit for the night will do for a weekend escape, but if you’re planning a long motorcycle trip, choose lightweight clothes that mix and match easily and are washable. Also, bring a spare riding jacket and pants.
Even in summer, ride well-covered. T-shirts and flip-flops are a no-go. Instead, opt for proper motorcycle travel gear: a ventilated jacket for hot weather, neck scarf, pants, boots, windproof gloves, and, most importantly, a helmet—always wear one for safety, even in countries where it’s not mandatory!
