What to bring for a motorcycle trip in Vietnam

Motorcycle trips demand far more planning than the equivalent journey in a car. Though riding provides an inherent sense of freedom, practical limitations require motorcyclists to think ahead when choosing to hit the open roads.

What to bring for a motorcycle, motorbike trip in Vietnam

• Aquasox and/or sandals
• ATM Card/Passport/credit card/Visa(s)/airplane ticket(s)/Itinerary (print it off the internet before you leave town)
• Baby wipes
• Backpack (medium size, to wear on a motorcycle carrying all your gear)
• Bandannas (2)
• Basic toiletries (shaving cream, razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, talcum powder, dental floss, toothpicks, aftershave or hand sanitizer, toilet paper, extra razor blade, contact lens cleanser, etc.)
• Bathing suit
• Bath towel, small
• Boots (if you have them)
• Camera & battery charger w/adapter plugs
• Cash
• Daypack or fanny pack
• Duct tape (small amount rolled around a pencil stub)
• Earplugs and eyeshade
  Gloves
  Hat
• Head light
• Medications (aspirin/malox/diarrhea/ etc.)
• Money belt or neck pouch to carry cash/documents
• Night headlamp or small flashlight
• Pants, long (2 pairs-- jeans, hiking pants, etc.)
• Poncho (heavy weight, that will hold up in wind on motorcycle)
• Warm jackets
• Shirts, long -sleeved (2, including one turtleneck, if possible)
• Sleeping bag liner
• Sneakers
• Socks (3 pairs)
• Wrapping sunglasses and lanyard
• T-shirts (3)
• Underwear (4)
• Wash cloth
• Zip-lock bags

Toolkit

Most bikes come with toolkits, but you'll want to make sure you're equipped with pliers, wire cutters, and various wrenches (including allen wrenches.) A small, all-in-one Leatherman®-style tool can be a handy complement to a traditional toolkit, and is easily accessible for quick repairs or adjustments.

Key Mechanical Spares & Lubes

Bringing along extra fuses, bulbs, spark plugs, and chain oil can make the difference between traveling securely and limping to the next service station.

Flashlight

Ever been caught in the dark? A flashlight will save you the hassle of trying to use your cell phone for illumination.

Tire Repair Kit

Blowouts are an all-too-common occurrence, and a flat kit which includes C02 cartridges for tire inflation will get you on the road again.

Duct Tape

If it's good enough for astronauts, it should be good enough for you. Unexpected mechanical failures or breaks can sometimes be held together with duct tape, providing a low-tech solution for potentially crippling problems.

First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is something you never want to be without-- whether its poison ivy or an ankle burn from an exhaust pipe, the cliché about an ounce of prevention is absolutely true. Rather than assembling your own supplies, an easier and more thorough solution is to purchase a pre-assembled kit, which will ensure that key items are not missing.

Packing.

Packing for a long distance motorcycle ride is a delicate balance between bringing enough items to ensure comfort, and not overloading yourself with unnecessary weight and bulk. After you've planned your route, you'll want to check the weather forecast and get an idea of what to expect in terms the elements.

A good touring suit is an excellent investment, and when choosing your clothes, consider packing several thin layers of clothing, rather than a few thick ones. Flexibility is the key to staying comfortable; it's far better to have the option to stop and shed or add layers as necessary, than to shiver or sweat your way through what would otherwise be an enjoyable, scenic route.

Be sure to bring energy bars or trail mix and water; if hunger or thirst strikes while you're far from convenience stores or gas stations, the nourishment will come in handy and keep your riding skills sharp.

When loading up your bike, always put heavier, more solid items on the bottom and sides closer to the bike (to centralize weight.) Lighter items should go on top. If you don't have saddlebags or tank bags, you should consider using bungee nets to secure loose items. If you must travel with items secured by a bungee net, ensure that they are snug and will not get loosened by winds or g-forces. Again, placing heavier , wider, and more stable items at the bottom will provide an anchor for looser, floppier pieces (like sleeping pads or pillows.)

Finally, equip yourself well. Always wear a full-face helmet for maximum protection-- not only against accidents, but also from the elements. Full-face helmets can provide a shield from rain and cold winds, and if constructed with ventilation, can also provide a certain level of comfort in warm weather. It may feel constricting in heat, but the overall benefits of choosing safety over style are vast when considering your long-term health and well being.

Plan, Plan, Plan...

Though it's tempting to hit the open road and simply follow your nose, don't forget that you're more vulnerable to the elements, fatigue, and potentially serious injury on a motorcycle. Prepare yourself with clothing appropriate for the weather. Plan a route and, if you don't have a portable GPS system, do whatever it takes not to get lost-- even if it means taping directions to the top of your fuel tank. Err in the direction of filling up with gas too frequently; because of their relatively low cruising range.
Pace your travels realistically. Don't try to ride so many hours in a day that it might affect your reflexes or decision making ability; after all, most of the fun is in the journey, not simply in reaching a destination. While riding, be sure to stop whenever necessary-- whether for a snack, a stretch, or a nap. The simple act of taking a breather will make the ride all the more enjoyable.

...But Don't Overplan!

Once you've prepared sufficiently, enjoy the possibility of the unexpected. Riding requires a certain amount of discipline and logistical planning, but part of the joy of the journey is the process. Be open to re-writing your plans when necessary, and you'll have a blast no matter where you end up.