Taking your motorcycle while camping is a great way to experience the outdoors

A camping trip is always an adventure, exploring new places in the great outdoors. If your mode of transportation is a motorcycle, however, limited carrying space will require you to plan a little more carefully exactly what you need to bring.

As you get organized, use a checklist to make a pile of everything that you might need, and then re-evaluate to determine if you have enough space. Motorcycle riding gear is specially designed to be compact and not overload the bike. Motorcycle trailers are an option to help you expand your storage space, and they're designed to safely tow behind the bike.

Adding a single waterproof bag for additional equipment that doesn't fit into the hard saddlebags or under your motorcycle seat - if you have one - will help you carry everything you need, but make sure the bag is securely attached to the bike.

Also consider keeping the equipment you pack lightweight, which will help you maneuver your bike easier. Hiking and backpacking stores have many compact and lightweight products available that can help you accomplish fitting everything into your small storage spaces.

Before you head out, plan ahead which campgrounds you'll stay at - if more than one. Some campgrounds don't allow motorcycles, so make a reservation to ensure you'll have a place to park for the night(s). If you're planning your first camping trip on a motorcycle, consider finding a location closer to home, so you won't have to travel far in case you forgot something, or discover you really can't survive sleeping on the ground without extra padding.

Some motorcycle tour companies will plan your campgrounds ahead of time, which can make getting organized easier for you. If you're new to camping while on a motorcycle, signing up for a tour might be a good way to start out the experience. Plus you can ask more experienced motorcycle campers for tips to make the weekend or week easier the next time you head out.

Taking a weekend or week-long camping trip while on your bike will give you great opportunities to explore the outdoors and get plenty of fresh air. It can be a great experience, so be prepared to have fun.