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Prepping Tools and Gear Discussions (incl. reviews) => Transportation => Topic started by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 12, 2023, 11:19:13 PM

Title: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 12, 2023, 11:19:13 PM
I am going on a two week tour through the Mid/ South West with some club members launching next week. This is what I am taking with me. We will either be staying with other club members or at hotels along the route and eating in restaurants and with other club members while on the road. There is no planned camping.

States to be visited include: Arkansas (Black Hills Tour), Texas (mostly Central and North), Arizona, Utah, Colorado (up to 14K'), Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico


Worn/ Equipped
1.                Modular Helmet w/BT
2.                Riding Jacket and trousers w/ thermal and water proof liners in back storage
3.                Riding Gloves
4.                Boots
5.                Cut
6.                Shorts
7.                T-shirt
8.                Underwear
9.                Boot Socks
10.            Sunglasses
11.            Ear plugs
12.            Hydration bladder pack
13.            IFAK w/ Shears, SOFT-T, Bandage
14.            Compact Pistol w/ spare magazine / holster
15.            Passport Card
16.            Driver's license
17.            CCP
18.            Insurance Card
19.            Medical Insurance Card
20.            Vehicle registration document
21.            Emergency USD
22.            Bank cards
23.            Leatherman Multi Tool
24.            Ankana multi-pen

Mounted
1.      Mobile phone w/ mount
2.      Go Pro w/ Mount (throttle side)
3.      Driver Seat Back

Passenger Seat:

Aviator Kit Bag
1.                Riding Gloves (Sp)
2.                Cargo Pants X 2
3.                Shorts X 3
4.                T-Shirt X 7
5.                Underwear X7
6.                Boot Socks X 7
7.                Beach Sandals
8.                Athletic Shoes
9.                Polo Shirt
10.            Sunglasses (Sp)
11.            Lightweight Riding jacket
12.            Laundry Bag
13.            Wet Bag
14.            Toiletry Kit (Toothbrush/floss and paste, Soap/ shower gel/ shampoo, Razor, Hand sanitizer)
15.            Fleece Jacket
16.            Neck Gaiter

Panier OKSS
1.      Ear plugs (x20)
2.      Cooler bag (w/ Drinks)
3.      Insect Repellent
4.      Sun Block
5.      10 X .5l water bottles
6.      Snacks
7.      Windex/ microfiber towels

Center Top Box (Secured)
Electronics Case             
1.                Mobile Phone/helmet; cables and charging block
2.                Go Pro Accessory Bag w/ Mounts, Set of memory cards
3.                IPAD and charger
4.                Jump box w/ Compressor & USB charger
5.      EDC Tool Case
a.      Gerber Multi tool
b.      Benchmade Folder
c.      Screwdriver multi tool
d.      Gerber Mini-pry/ boxcutter/ strand cutter
e.      C3 Flashlight
f.      Powerbank w/ cable
g.      Oowie kit

Bowie Knife
Compact Carbine w/ spare magazines
Owner's Manual
Fold Up Chair
Tuner

Panier KSS
Emergency Bag
1.                Emergency Sleeping Bag
2.                Poncho w/ 550 cord precut
3.                Para cord
4.                Towel
5.                Water Purification Bottle w/ straw, filter
6.                Fire kit
7.                Emergency food

Tool zip up case
1.                Pliers
2.                150mm Crescent Wrench
3.                Hex Set
4.                ¼" Drive Socket Set
5.                12v Tester, Electrical Tape, wire brush
6.                Flashlight/ battery
7.                TP Gauge
8.                Driver w/screwdriver set

Adventure First aid kit
Foot pump w/Gauge
Rags
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: flybynight on August 13, 2023, 06:40:48 AM
I would throw in a tarp in case you wanted to wear the poncho while needing shelter
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Z.O.R.G. on August 13, 2023, 08:54:17 AM
I would suggest some sort of commo other than a cell phone.  (I am Zombie Ops. Radio Guy after all.)  

If someone you're going with is a ham, you're all set.  If not, a handheld CB radio (with optional wire antenna to supplement the rubber duck dummy load) will give you some decent HF coverage.  I can give you details on an external antenna if you like.  For UHF, GMRS licenses are easy to get (no test required, just $$).  There are many options for that - Blister pack radios are typically 0.5 watts with fixed antennas, and you don't need a license for the FRS frequencies.  Actual GRS radios re typically ~5.0 watts for a handheld ~50 watts for a mobile and you should be able to use an external antenna on them.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 10:19:44 AM
I have a small emergency poncho in the unlikely event I would need a rain coat, instead of simply the wearing riding suit with waterproof liner. It's in a cigarette pack size survival kit with a whistle, matches and a few other items I will probably never use.

I know at least two of the other guys have CB radios mounted on their bikes, that are soft wired to their helmets. My biggest concern is a catastrophic accident out in the middle of nowhere with no cell coverage. A lot of the places we are planning on going will have no cell coverage at all. Not being a radio guy, will a Ham radio be useful in such a scenario? I have a marine radio for my sailboat but I know I can call locally for help on that. 

Just realized I failed to include any meds. I probably would have thought of it when I was packing my toiletries but you never know.

Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: flybynight on August 13, 2023, 11:10:52 AM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 10:19:44 AMI have a small emergency poncho in the unlikely event I would need a rain coat, instead of simply the wearing riding suit with waterproof liner. It's in a cigarette pack size survival kit with a whistle, matches and a few other items I will probably never use.

I know at least two of the other guys have CB radios mounted on their bikes, that are soft wired to their helmets. My biggest concern is a catastrophic accident out in the middle of nowhere with no cell coverage. A lot of the places we are planning on going will have no cell coverage at all. Not being a radio guy, will a Ham radio be useful in such a scenario? I have a marine radio for my sailboat but I know I can call locally for help on that. 

Just realized I failed to include any meds. I probably would have thought of it when I was packing my toiletries but you never know.


Some kind of Sat phone  or a Garmin InReach
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Moab on August 13, 2023, 11:14:23 AM
You want the same radio as your friends. So cb. Would not be my first choice. Ask if they have gmrs radios. They have strongest wattage without needing a license.

Is there reciprocal concealed carry in every state, county, city you are traveling through for the pistol? Same for the knives you are carrying. Knife laws are harder to figure out. Maybe impossible. I would leave the bowie knife at home. Unless you absolutely need it.

I would carry an actual hiking tarp. Not a big heavy blue tarp. But a lightweight 8x8 or 10x10. Just something nylon. They aren't expensive in Amazon. If one of you breaks down. You may be standing in the rain for some time. And in alot of those states there are long distances with no services. At least one of your party should carry a shelter you all can share.

Also what about food and water?
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Z.O.R.G. on August 13, 2023, 12:51:28 PM
Ham radio will defiantly reach out and touch someone from the middle of nowhere.  They'll be other hams, but they should have access to land lines.  You need to study and pass an exam (I'd suggest 2 - both Technician and General for the privileges.)  There're a couple of 7-year-olds in my AO that have passed both. 

I'd suggest a Yaesu FT-817/818 if you can find one used.  That will set you back about $400-700, depending on how good of a deal you can find.  I've a post in "Communications" about NVIS antennas.  Set-up correctly you'd have a range of ~700 miles on 5 watts.  The radio is the size of a CB and you could fit the antenna and feed line in a cargo pocket if you use small gauge wire.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 01:02:51 PM
QuoteIs there reciprocal concealed carry in every state, county, city you are traveling through for the pistol? Same for the knives you are carrying. Knife laws are harder to figure out. Maybe impossible. I would leave the bowie knife at home. Unless you absolutely need it.
My permit is good in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico subject to local restrictions such as schools, Federal Court Houses and other such places I don't plan on visiting. The Bowie will be locked up in the center trunk box with the long gun as noted. This appears to conform with all laws. The only issue I could foresee with firearms was with the magazine limits in Colorado. Therefore all magazines are 15 rounds or less.

Most knife laws involve concealed carry, carry at schools, carry by minors etc. None of which apply to me. There may be a local law but since it will be locked in the trunk box most of the time I imagine I will be ok. Most states (like Colorado) give safe passage to travelers over local ordinances.


QuoteAlso what about food and water?
As noted, planning on 5 liters of bottled water a day plus the camel back and other beverages. Water goes near as quick as gas on the road. The plan is to get a large case of water every day and do a break to top everyone off. Snacks are high energy stuff like trail mix, mixed nuts etc. Probably keep 2-3lbs on hand at a time, with a 1lb package in the emergency bag. It's around 2K calories a pound.

Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 01:10:24 PM
Quote from: Z.O.R.G. on August 13, 2023, 12:51:28 PMHam radio will defiantly reach out and touch someone from the middle of nowhere.  They'll be other hams, but they should have access to land lines.  You need to study and pass an exam (I'd suggest 2 - both Technician and General for the privileges.)  There're a couple of 7-year-olds in my AO that have passed both.

I'd suggest a Yaesu FT-817/818 if you can find one used.  That will set you back about $400-700, depending on how good of a deal you can find.  I've a post in "Communications" about NVIS antennas.  Set-up correctly you'd have a range of ~700 miles on 5 watts.  The radio is the size of a CB and you could fit the antenna and feed line in a cargo pocket if you use small gauge wire.
I'll keep that in mind for next time. I Don't see me getting all that set up by Thursday night. I recall decades ago the Army had a RATELO system that could tie radio to a telephone call. Do civilians have such things these days?
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Z.O.R.G. on August 13, 2023, 01:16:21 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 01:10:24 PMI'll keep that in mind for next time. I Don't see me getting all that set up by Thursday night. I recall decades ago the Army had a RATELO system that could tie radio to a telephone call. Do civilians have such things these days?

Yes, it's called "auto-patch" and is usually tied into VHF/UHF repeaters.  It's less popular now because of cell phones.  If you can reach a repeater, you can also call for help on it.  HF may be old school, but it's the only thing that reliably gets you more than line of sight (~50 miles terrain dependent) without a relay or a satellite.  
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 01:23:48 PM
QuoteSome kind of Sat phone  or a Garmin InReach
Actually considered this. Or perhaps a Starlink terminal for straight VOIP. Trying to figure how to justify the $1800/yr for it.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Moab on August 13, 2023, 03:10:40 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 01:02:51 PM
QuoteIs there reciprocal concealed carry in every state, county, city you are traveling through for the pistol? Same for the knives you are carrying. Knife laws are harder to figure out. Maybe impossible. I would leave the bowie knife at home. Unless you absolutely need it.
My permit is good in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico subject to local restrictions such as schools, Federal Court Houses and other such places I don't plan on visiting. The Bowie will be locked up in the center trunk box with the long gun as noted. This appears to conform with all laws. The only issue I could foresee with firearms was with the magazine limits in Colorado. Therefore all magazines are 15 rounds or less.

Most knife laws involve concealed carry, carry at schools, carry by minors etc. None of which apply to me. There may be a local law but since it will be locked in the trunk box most of the time I imagine I will be ok. Most states (like Colorado) give safe passage to travelers over local ordinances.


QuoteAlso what about food and water?
As noted, planning on 5 liters of bottled water a day plus the camel back and other beverages. Water goes near as quick as gas on the road. The plan is to get a large case of water every day and do a break to top everyone off. Snacks are high energy stuff like trail mix, mixed nuts etc. Probably keep 2-3lbs on hand at a time, with a 1lb package in the emergency bag. It's around 2K calories a pound.



You have a concealed carry permit for the entire US? I have never heard of such a thing. 
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: EBuff75 on August 13, 2023, 03:58:41 PM
What about some TP or Dude Wipes?  You never know when you'll be caught short and need to visit the little boy's bush at the side of the road somewhere!  :eek1:
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:20:11 PM
Quote from: EBuff75 on August 13, 2023, 03:58:41 PMWhat about some TP or Dude Wipes?  You never know when you'll be caught short and need to visit the little boy's bush at the side of the road somewhere!  :eek1:
That's not a bad idea, given road food being what it is. Added, JIC.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:27:35 PM

QuoteYou have a concealed carry permit for the entire US? I have never heard of such a thing. 
Yes, it is unfortunate that more people are not eligible, but most people aren't willing to do what it takes to be eligible.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Moab on August 13, 2023, 04:36:37 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:27:35 PM
QuoteYou have a concealed carry permit for the entire US? I have never heard of such a thing.
Yes, it is unfortunate that more people are not eligible, but most people aren't willing to do what it takes to be eligible.
Ok. You have to elaborate. I honestly don't think such a thing exists. Unless your a federal agent of some sort. 
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:40:27 PM
Quote from: Moab on August 13, 2023, 04:36:37 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:27:35 PM
QuoteYou have a concealed carry permit for the entire US? I have never heard of such a thing.
Yes, it is unfortunate that more people are not eligible, but most people aren't willing to do what it takes to be eligible.
Ok. You have to elaborate. I honestly don't think such a thing exists. Unless your a federal agent of some sort.
Clearly I don't have to, but I will. I am definitely not a federal agent of any kind, but I am covered under LEOSA.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: flybynight on August 13, 2023, 05:16:53 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 01:23:48 PM
QuoteSome kind of Sat phone  or a Garmin InReach
Actually considered this. Or perhaps a Starlink terminal for straight VOIP. Trying to figure how to justify the $1800/yr for it.
I believe the Garmin subscription can be turned off when not being used
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: 12_Gauge_Chimp on August 13, 2023, 05:53:56 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:40:27 PM
Quote from: Moab on August 13, 2023, 04:36:37 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 04:27:35 PM
QuoteYou have a concealed carry permit for the entire US? I have never heard of such a thing.
Yes, it is unfortunate that more people are not eligible, but most people aren't willing to do what it takes to be eligible.
Ok. You have to elaborate. I honestly don't think such a thing exists. Unless your a federal agent of some sort.
Clearly I don't have to, but I will. I am definitely not a federal agent of any kind, but I am covered under LEOSA.


So retired LEO of some sort ?

I've heard of retired LEO's being able to carry nationwide, but I forgot what exactly it was called that they qualified to do so under.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 06:12:16 PM

QuoteI've heard of retired LEO's being able to carry nationwide, but I forgot what exactly it was called that they qualified to do so under.
It covers, active, retired, part time, reserve and LE auxiliary provided they meet the requirements of having/ had powers of arrest are authorized by the employing agency to carry, currently qualified, sober etc.  It is a pretty long list of qualifiers, detailed in depth background check, references, poly, pysch exam, drug tests, physical exam, public service etc. that most people aren't really interested in doing.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on September 01, 2023, 05:15:38 PM
Here is a quick Review of the usefulness of the items I took on the trip:

Used Frequently
Useful When Needed
Critical Gear
Did Not Take
Useless

Worn/ Equipped
1.                Modular Helmet w/BT
2.                Riding Jacket and trousers w/ thermal and water proof liners in back storage
3.                Riding Gloves
4.                Boots
5.                Cut
6.                Shorts
7.                T-shirt
8.                Underwear
9.                Boot Socks
10.            Sunglasses
11.            Ear plugs
12.            Hydration bladder pack
13.            IFAK w/ Shears, SOFT-T, Bandage
14.            Compact Pistol w/ spare magazine / holster
15.            Passport Card
16.            Driver's license
17.            CCP
18.            Insurance Card
19.            Medical Insurance Card
20.            Vehicle registration document
21.            Emergency USD
22.            Bank cards
23.            Leatherman Multi Tool
24.            Ankana multi-pen

Mounted
1.      Mobile phone w/ mount
2.      Go Pro w/ Mount (throttle side)
3.      Driver Seat Back
4.      Added - Insulated cup and cup holder

Passenger Seat:

Aviator Kit Bag
1.                Riding Gloves (Sp)
2.                Cargo Pants X 2
3.                Shorts X 3
4.                T-Shirt X 7
5.                Underwear X7
6.                Boot Socks X 7
7.                Beach Sandals
8.                Athletic Shoes
9.                Polo Shirt
10.            Sunglasses (Sp)
11.            Lightweight Riding jacket
12.            Laundry Bag
13.            Wet Bag
14.            Toiletry Kit (Toothbrush/floss and paste, Soap/ shower gel/ shampoo, Razor, Hand sanitizer)
15.            Fleece Jacket
16.            Neck Gaiter

Panier OKSS
1.      Ear plugs (x20)
2.      Cooler bag (w/ Drinks)
3.      Insect Repellent
4.      Sun Block
5.      10 X .5l water bottles (This was increased to 20 bottles.)
6.      Snacks
7.      Windex/ microfiber towels

Center Top Box (Secured)
Electronics Case             
1.                Mobile Phone/helmet; cables and charging block
2.                Go Pro Accessory Bag w/ Mounts, Set of memory cards
3.                IPAD and charger
4.                Jump box w/ Compressor & USB charger
5.      EDC Tool Case
a.      Gerber Multi tool
b.      Benchmade Folder
c.      Screwdriver multi tool
d.      Gerber Mini-pry/ boxcutter/ strand cutter
e.      C3 Flashlight
f.      Powerbank w/ cable
g.      Oowie kit

Bowie Knife
Compact Carbine w/ spare magazines
Owner's Manual
Fold Up Chair
Tuner

Panier KSS
Emergency Bag
1.                Emergency Sleeping Bag
2.                Poncho w/ 550 cord precut
3.                Para cord
4.                Towel
5.                Water Purification Bottle w/ straw, filter
6.                Fire kit
7.                Emergency food

Tool zip up case
1.                Pliers
2.                150mm Crescent Wrench
3.                Hex Set
4.                ¼" Drive Socket Set
5.                12v Tester, Electrical Tape, wire brush
6.                Flashlight/ battery
7.                TP Gauge
8.                Driver w/screwdriver set

Adventure First aid kit
Foot pump w/Gauge
Rags

It turns out the most consequential piece of kit was my cooler bag. We faced temperatures in 90-115 on the first two days. I was the only one that brought a cooler. On day 1 and every day after I would place most of my water bottles in the freezer at night and drink them as they melted. This gave me ice cold water throughout the day. This was a better option for me than the hydration bladder. I figure it saved me around $350.

The rest of the group split into two camps. Buying their way out by spending $25-35 a day on gas station drinks or not drinking enough. By the end of the first day we had our first heat injury. The next day two of our older riders dropped out. If you don't drink water in the desert you will die.

On day four we had a very low speed collision between two riders. We were about 90 miles from the nearest MC shop and in an area where there is little to no response services. Other than some very minor injuries and ego crushing the only issue was making the bikes road worthy. We were able to do that with the few hand tools we had. It is important to note that some tools are always better than none. Luckily I wasn't involved.

I should have left the rain gear at home. Even in the mountains it was too hot to wear when it was raining. I did put the thermals on when the temperature dropped below 40 and there was a little bit of snow. This was only for one day. We mostly didn't wear our cuts either because it was too hot.

The only other issue I encountered was upon leaving the hotel parking lot one morning I failed to zip up my pants pocket fully and my key fob and keys fell out in the parking lot as we were leaving. I am normally tail gunner. I don't have a spare fob. The bike doesn't indicate if the fob is not in the area either. About ten minutes after leaving I did the wallet/ keys/ phone check and wasn't getting an up on the keys. I stopped, checked all my pockets and drive back to the hotel. They were laying right there in the parking lot.

I think I will price having a spare key fob made up now, instead of waiting until I need it to get one made.

Lastly, I did the last 900 miles solo as I had some personal quests to address. In the last town that I stopped for the night I drew a lot of attention of the local OLMC Chapter simply by being large solo rider without any apparent affiliation. I also went to one of their frequent hang outs without even realizing it. Once they found which club I was with it was no longer an issue for them. This is something that solo riders need to keep in mind as a safety issue.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: flybynight on September 01, 2023, 05:31:28 PM
Maybe it's my puter ( or probably my eyes) but I don't see a difference in color between "used frequently  an Useless". Or was that intentional?
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on September 01, 2023, 05:35:44 PM
Quote from: flybynight on September 01, 2023, 05:31:28 PMMaybe it's my puter ( or probably my eyes) but I don't see a difference in color between "used frequently  an Useless". Or was that intentional?
Used frequently is green, useless is purple.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Moab on September 01, 2023, 06:36:32 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on August 13, 2023, 06:12:16 PM
QuoteI've heard of retired LEO's being able to carry nationwide, but I forgot what exactly it was called that they qualified to do so under.
It covers, active, retired, part time, reserve and LE auxiliary provided they meet the requirements of having/ had powers of arrest are authorized by the employing agency to carry, currently qualified, sober etc.  It is a pretty long list of qualifiers, detailed in depth background check, references, poly, pysch exam, drug tests, physical exam, public service etc. that most people aren't really interested in doing.
So its an actual separate license? Who issues it? Just curious. That's fascinating. 
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Moab on September 01, 2023, 06:41:53 PM
Quote from: Uomo Senza Nome on September 01, 2023, 05:15:38 PMHere is a quick Review of the usefulness of the items I took on the trip:

Used Frequently
Useful When Needed
Critical Gear
Did Not Take
Useless

Worn/ Equipped
1.                Modular Helmet w/BT
2.                Riding Jacket and trousers w/ thermal and water proof liners in back storage
3.                Riding Gloves
4.                Boots
5.                Cut
6.                Shorts
7.                T-shirt
8.                Underwear
9.                Boot Socks
10.            Sunglasses
11.            Ear plugs
12.            Hydration bladder pack
13.            IFAK w/ Shears, SOFT-T, Bandage
14.            Compact Pistol w/ spare magazine / holster
15.            Passport Card
16.            Driver's license
17.            CCP
18.            Insurance Card
19.            Medical Insurance Card
20.            Vehicle registration document
21.            Emergency USD
22.            Bank cards
23.            Leatherman Multi Tool
24.            Ankana multi-pen

Mounted
1.      Mobile phone w/ mount
2.      Go Pro w/ Mount (throttle side)
3.      Driver Seat Back
4.      Added - Insulated cup and cup holder

Passenger Seat:

Aviator Kit Bag
1.                Riding Gloves (Sp)
2.                Cargo Pants X 2
3.                Shorts X 3
4.                T-Shirt X 7
5.                Underwear X7
6.                Boot Socks X 7
7.                Beach Sandals
8.                Athletic Shoes
9.                Polo Shirt
10.            Sunglasses (Sp)
11.            Lightweight Riding jacket
12.            Laundry Bag
13.            Wet Bag
14.            Toiletry Kit (Toothbrush/floss and paste, Soap/ shower gel/ shampoo, Razor, Hand sanitizer)
15.            Fleece Jacket
16.            Neck Gaiter

Panier OKSS
1.      Ear plugs (x20)
2.      Cooler bag (w/ Drinks)
3.      Insect Repellent
4.      Sun Block
5.      10 X .5l water bottles (This was increased to 20 bottles.)
6.      Snacks
7.      Windex/ microfiber towels

Center Top Box (Secured)
Electronics Case             
1.                Mobile Phone/helmet; cables and charging block
2.                Go Pro Accessory Bag w/ Mounts, Set of memory cards
3.                IPAD and charger
4.                Jump box w/ Compressor & USB charger
5.      EDC Tool Case
a.      Gerber Multi tool
b.      Benchmade Folder
c.      Screwdriver multi tool
d.      Gerber Mini-pry/ boxcutter/ strand cutter
e.      C3 Flashlight
f.      Powerbank w/ cable
g.      Oowie kit

Bowie Knife
Compact Carbine w/ spare magazines
Owner's Manual
Fold Up Chair
Tuner

Panier KSS
Emergency Bag
1.                Emergency Sleeping Bag
2.                Poncho w/ 550 cord precut
3.                Para cord
4.                Towel
5.                Water Purification Bottle w/ straw, filter
6.                Fire kit
7.                Emergency food

Tool zip up case
1.                Pliers
2.                150mm Crescent Wrench
3.                Hex Set
4.                ¼" Drive Socket Set
5.                12v Tester, Electrical Tape, wire brush
6.                Flashlight/ battery
7.                TP Gauge
8.                Driver w/screwdriver set

Adventure First aid kit
Foot pump w/Gauge
Rags

It turns out the most consequential piece of kit was my cooler bag. We faced temperatures in 90-115 on the first two days. I was the only one that brought a cooler. On day 1 and every day after I would place most of my water bottles in the freezer at night and drink them as they melted. This gave me ice cold water throughout the day. This was a better option for me than the hydration bladder. I figure it saved me around $350.

The rest of the group split into two camps. Buying their way out by spending $25-35 a day on gas station drinks or not drinking enough. By the end of the first day we had our first heat injury. The next day two of our older riders dropped out. If you don't drink water in the desert you will die.

On day four we had a very low speed collision between two riders. We were about 90 miles from the nearest MC shop and in an area where there is little to no response services. Other than some very minor injuries and ego crushing the only issue was making the bikes road worthy. We were able to do that with the few hand tools we had. It is important to note that some tools are always better than none. Luckily I wasn't involved.

I should have left the rain gear at home. Even in the mountains it was too hot to wear when it was raining. I did put the thermals on when the temperature dropped below 40 and there was a little bit of snow. This was only for one day. We mostly didn't wear our cuts either because it was too hot.

The only other issue I encountered was upon leaving the hotel parking lot one morning I failed to zip up my pants pocket fully and my key fob and keys fell out in the parking lot as we were leaving. I am normally tail gunner. I don't have a spare fob. The bike doesn't indicate if the fob is not in the area either. About ten minutes after leaving I did the wallet/ keys/ phone check and wasn't getting an up on the keys. I stopped, checked all my pockets and drive back to the hotel. They were laying right there in the parking lot.

I think I will price having a spare key fob made up now, instead of waiting until I need it to get one made.

Lastly, I did the last 900 miles solo as I had some personal quests to address. In the last town that I stopped for the night I drew a lot of attention of the local OLMC Chapter simply by being large solo rider without any apparent affiliation. I also went to one of their frequent hang outs without even realizing it. Once they found which club I was with it was no longer an issue for them. This is something that solo riders need to keep in mind as a safety issue.
What club do you belong too?

Was there anything you took that was vital that you didn't expect? Or more useful than you thought? Anything you would take next time that you didnt this time?
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Moab on September 01, 2023, 06:44:59 PM
Quote from: flybynight on September 01, 2023, 05:31:28 PMMaybe it's my puter ( or probably my eyes) but I don't see a difference in color between "used frequently  an Useless". Or was that intentional?
You're now colorblind, flybynight. Might as well start digging a hole. ;)

(If you say you're seriously ill I'm gonna shoot myself.)
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Moab on September 01, 2023, 06:46:21 PM
What bike did you take? I don't recall you mentioning that? Did it perform as expected? 
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: flybynight on September 01, 2023, 07:33:54 PM
Quote from: Moab on September 01, 2023, 06:44:59 PM
Quote from: flybynight on September 01, 2023, 05:31:28 PMMaybe it's my puter ( or probably my eyes) but I don't see a difference in color between "used frequently  an Useless". Or was that intentional?
You're now colorblind, flybynight. Might as well start digging a hole. ;)

(If you say you're seriously ill I'm gonna shoot myself.)
I have a basement, Does that count? 
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Uomo Senza Nome on September 01, 2023, 08:52:51 PM
I took my 2021 Harley Road Glide with Stage 1 and 2 mods. It performed flawlessly under trying circumstances of extreme heat, high elevations, wind, dust and lots of hill climbing. I changed the oil before I left and rode it just over 4K miles so it will soon be due another oil change. The only odd thing I noticed on the bike was the increased fuel consumption in the states where the the speed limit is much higher (80MPH). The increase from 65 to 85 was nearly 20%, although wind likely played a role as well.

I think I should have taken several compression bags instead of loose bags. I later picked up some kitchen trash bags and used them to compress things. This was ok but less than optimal. As noted the cooler was more useful than I expected due to the extreme heat. I saved a few hundred dollars and stayed healthy.
Title: Re: Touring Packing List - Now With Review
Post by: Moab on September 01, 2023, 10:59:11 PM

And probably felt alot better. And had a much better time because of it.