What All Should I Carry On A Long Ride
By Prathamesh Joshi
A long ride isn’t just about where you’re going.
It’s about what you’re carrying with you when things don’t go as planned.
After riding across Zanskar, Umling La, the Rann, and countless highway runs, one thing is certain — riders rarely get stranded because of big failures. They get stranded because they didn’t carry something small.
Here’s a clear, practical packing guide for every long ride.
Riding essentials
These are things you should never start a long ride without.
Documents
Driving licence
RC
Insurance
PUC
ID proof
Money
Some cash (for fuel, food, emergencies)
Cards or UPI access
Phone essentials
Fully charged phone
Charging cable
Power bank
Safety & riding gear
Your gear is your first line of defence.
Helmet
Properly fitting, clear visor
Riding gear
Riding jacket
Riding pants
Gloves
Riding boots
Weather protection
Rain liner or rainwear
Extra neck gaiter or balaclava
Motorcycle essentials
These help you stay mobile even when something small goes wrong.
Tyre & puncture
Puncture repair kit
Tyre inflator or portable pump
Tools
Basic tool kit
Multi-tool if available
Spares
Spare clutch lever
Spare brake lever
Spare clutch cable
Spare fuses and bulbs
Chain care
Chain clean and lube (for multi-day rides)
Personal essentials
Because your body needs care too.
Hydration
Water bottle or hydration pack
Food
Energy bars or dry snacks
Health
Personal medicines
Basic first-aid kit
Hygiene
Wet wipes
Hand sanitizer
Tissues
Clothing & stay essentials
Pack smart, not heavy.
Clothes
Quick-dry t-shirts
Innerwear
Socks
Footwear
Light footwear for off the bike
Stay
Microfiber towel
Basic toiletries
Navigation & planning tools
Even the best rides need direction.
Navigation
Offline maps downloaded
Phone mount (secure)
Ride info
List of fuel stops
Hotel bookings or stay details
Emergency contact numbers
Tech & content gear (if you use them)
Carry only what you’ll actually use.
Action camera
Extra memory cards
Extra batteries
Charging cables
Mounts and clips
Packing tips that save rides
Keep frequently used items on top
Separate tools from clothes
Use zip-lock bags for documents and electronics
Balance luggage weight on both sides
Avoid carrying things “just in case” unless they’re truly useful
Final word
A long ride feels lighter when you’re packed right.
Carry too little and you stress.
Carry too much and you struggle.
The sweet spot is carrying exactly what you need — nothing more, nothing less.
Because the best rides aren’t remembered for what you carried.
They’re remembered for how smoothly everything worked.