Budgeting for a Motorcycle Tour

Continuing my series on Achieving Your Motorcycle Touring Dreams and Goals, I want to take the time to talk about budgeting. This topic is not necessarily the sexiest thing to talk cover, but it is extremely important. While I do not always take the time to create a detailed budget for shorter trips, I think it is essential to do so on longer adventures.
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Thanks, and ride safe!

[@ArizonaRE]

Wow! You hit every single point I would have made on this! Pretty good advice for those that have never done it. I've always called my ank and credit companies and it never fails, two days into a trip I'll have to call the number on the back of the card. Before you leave make sure you know all of your access info so you can tell them over the phone. So one thing I do is eat light for breakfast and lunch, especially when riding. That keeps it cheap, but also helps fend off unwanted bathroom breaks in weird places. Great video B-)

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That is a good suggestion. I have been in the situation where I forgot my access code. Now a days the card companies will send you a text if they are suspicious. If you do't have that set up, it might be a good idea to do that. Eating light on the road is also a good idea. Pick your foods wisely. Having a brick in your stomach with a few hundred miles to left on the day is no fun. Thanks, ride safe!

[@luismendoza9707]

Yup. i think i watched 7/6 of his videos before i realized i hadent Subscribed.

[@realmotovlog]

Words of wisdom! Thanks for sharing...ride safe Craig.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, appreciate it!

[@Radioactive_Slime]

A sobering exercise for sure. It's one thing to "think" of the items you need to cover but until you put it down on paper and see everything laid out, it's easy to forget what you're possibly up against. Thanks for the tutorial.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it.

[@jimtaucher791]

Hi Craig. Hope all is well with you and your wife. I just returned from my own 16 day 12 state 4400 mile adventure. I just want to thank you again for all of your great videos especially the ones about preparing for a motorcycle adventure. I used much of the advice i learned from you. It was all beyond helpful. Thanks again and take care.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, my wife continues to improve. Sounds like you had a great trip. I am glad that my videos have been helpful. That is why I do them. Ride safe!

[@davedeja]

Craig, as a side note, A very valuable resource for planning a lengthy tour is the experience of those who have gone before you. KZbin is a n excellent source of information from people who have been there and done that. searching youtube can pay countless rewards...

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Absolutely. There are a lot of resources online, from KZbin, travel blogs, the Horizons Unlimited website and podcasts like, Adventure Rider Radio. Not to forget, there are a lot of great books as well. Thanks!

[@governmentcheese2257]

When im on trips, i borrow from my hiking hobby by purchasing from the dollar stores along the way. If you are camping, you will probably have a stove / pan combination. You can make stuffing / pork and beans / ramen noodles and much much more. Get creative with your taste and you can still find items for $1 that will feed you for a whole meal. On the bike, you can carry cans / eggs (farm fresh with the coating on do not need refrigeration) / hard cheese and much more. It helps to find products that just need water. They also have dried butter / eggs that will make it easier to travel with. You can always go to your local dollar store to see what they have before you take your trip, see if something will work for you. You might be able to even use the stove / pan in the hotel room if you are careful. I find the cost savings to be huge. Hope this helps ! Good luck.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Great suggestions, thanks!

[@BillyTpower]

Hi Craig, 1 thing to keep in mind is that mountain riding will drastically reduce your mpg. both because of the extra work on the engine to climb and descend but also because of the elevation. Your motor will get less mpg at altitude than it will on the flat land.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Good point, I did not think of that. Thanks!

[@jollyrgr2854]

Did 8K last summer, mostly camping riding my 2012 Super Tenere. It was strange but I averaged 45 mpg while traveling the flatlands, but once up in the mountians in and around Yellowstone, I was getting better than 51mpg. It may also have been related to the gas. On the east coast I normally run 93 octane, out west 91 was the best I could find.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Interesting. I will track mileage a few times while we are traveling to see how we are doing at given intervals.

[@forestor1]

Craig, this was a great breakdown. This is pretty much the process I go through for my trips. Last year, I took my first international trip up to Canada. One thing that I thought of for that trip was travel insurance. I found a travel insurance that would cover emergencies both inside and outside of the US--lodging, medical care, maintenance, and transportation--for a very reasonable price. Also, FYI, Progressive insurance provides members coverage in CA, including the required documentation, for no additional charge!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you sir! I will have to check with my carriers about insurance while traveling, I believe I am covered, but it is a good idea to make sure. I was also able to get CA waiver when I went to Nova Scotia in 2012, I did have progressive back then, but have switched carriers since. Thanks for info, good suggestions!

[@bolivardigriz8847]

Excellent advice, Craig! This video made into both my motorcycling directory and my personal finance directory. I know I'll be sharing this vlog with many others. Keep them coming!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you! Glad you found it useful.

[@stevenbaker4220]

Really enjoy the videos. At 55yo I am looking to begin some light touring. The videos are very informative. Thank you and keep up the good work.

[@baltsosser]

I checked out airbnb just now along the route two friends and I intend to travel this summer. There are some great finds in that line of thought. I'd heard of it before, but I never thought about that for motorcycling. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Very cool, thanks!

[@addicted2baseballrgd21]

I normally budget $200 a day. Hotels usually eat up anywhere from $90 - $150. It's simple easy budget for me. My touring duration is anywhere from 3 to 7 days. Obviously anything longer, I would have to make cuts, and be more creative. If I were going to go to Alaska from Southern Californian, it would probably be a good 6 weeks. I can't afford 6 weeks at $200 a day, so I would need to be really creative.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@cliff8675]

Just getting (back) into motorcycling. Earlier I did not travel by bike, so this will be new. My tentative first trip will be a weekend about 2 hours away. Then later an 8 hour trip to another weekend getaway. I have a while before I do a 35 day trip. But I've saved this video, I will be putting together an Excel workbook (computer nerds, what can you do with them?) that I will revise as I gain my own experience. But after watching this, I have a much better starting point. Thanks for the video.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sounds like you are going at your own pace, which is perfect. I am glad that my videos are proving to me a good resource..and Excel will do a lot. Thanks and ride safe!

[@marvdw1]

Ever thought of switching to Heidenau k60 scout from the start. Heidenau k60 scout are documented by many riders to make a full Alaska trip from almost anywhere in the lower 48. It will cut out shipping tires. also carrying a few pre-measured differential oil bottles in case you leak or want to flush your diff may help. I had a 2012 S10 with full bags, ecu flash, and tour ready. Sold it because it was cumbersome, a bit dull to ride, and made my hands numb. I miss it sometimes but im eying the Africa Twin for the spring.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I am running the Mitas E07 Dakars. It was between them the and the Heidenau K60s. I went the the Mitas primarily due to their less pronounced center ridge and thus better off-road and rain performance--at least that is what I read. They have been an excellent tire so far and are supposed to get similar mileage as the Heidenaus. It is true they might be able to make it the entire way, but there is also a chance I could need new ones around 10K. I guess it just depends on how comfortable I am running the tires thin, which I don't know yet as I only have 2500 miles on them so far. I will run them in the Spring and see how they do before I go. Good luck with the Africa Twin. I hear it is a very nice bike. Thanks!

[@marvdw1]

ohh yes...that would be the other rock solid tire. the mitas is probably the better option in your situation. your videos are great.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, glad you are enjoying the videos!

[@catesg]

Excellent advice. You covered a lot of good areas of expense and tips. I especially liked the cell coverage and credit card tips. Great job.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, appreciate the kind words!

[@kellymeier579]

Excellent video as always. This past summer because of where I traveled combined with low mpg with my Stratoliner I got into "buy gas when you see it" mode. I sometimes endeded up paying more in rural Montana, Wyoming & Canada. We payed the equivalent of $6.99 one fill up & were happy to do it.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Wow! Might have to increase my allocation. Thanks!

[@krobarrides9028]

Wanted to stop back by this video and tell you that I just planned/budgeted Iron Butt 1k, 1500 and 1500 gold rides for me and brothers based on this information. Thank you again!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That is awesome! Glad it was of help to you.

[@albertptran]

Probably one of the most important videos on the internet ever. Thanks

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Wow, thanks!

[@AdventuresWithMe00]

Thorough and exhaustive video. I'll be interested to see how this all plays out once you are on the road.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Me too. In the past we have always stayed within our budgets, but this is going to be a longer trip, so we will see. I guess I have set myself up to keeping a log...well see how that works out. Thanks!

[@dalethebelldiver7740]

This was a pretty good outline for budgeting. I’m like you; I don’t want to run short on money or time; so both are budgeted. I like to alternate the food prep to prepared foods so; getting use to low food volumes is important or you’ll be hungry all night. Food consumption also equates to frequent toilet stops too.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@anomie6788]

Yes Sir, you are right about that, everyone likes different things. I did not hear the alcohol budget, where mine for 30 days is about $1400 I started saving today.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Nice...

[@RaoMusafirKhan]

Wow great video to watch. Thumb's up. I've recently done a 15172km journey in 34 days on my GS150. Obviously I calculated everything before leaving and it was quite helpful to maintain everyday traveling. But what made the damage was visiting historical places,museums which increased the graph a little bit. The thing that I did to save money was to stay out of city. Next day go for sightseeing in the city and then again find a hotel on other side of the city. It saved almost 20$ a day! And my suggestion is to avoid purchasing food from a gas station. It's better to go in a super store. It supports your budget a lot. And also look for couch surfers, sometimes it's quite useful.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, great suggestions!

[@Caradin22]

Fantastic budget talk! Planning a ride up to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories in 2019 and just starting to plan out the route + budget needed.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you! Have fun planning your trip.

[@dentman67]

Outstanding video, thanks Craig. (I'm spoiled here in TX, about $2.05 a gallon for premium.)

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That is a good price. We are paying $2.70 for premium right now, but I am not counting on the prices remaining that low. I also know it will be higher in Canada and Alaska. I just check and it looks like fuel is going for around $1.30 a litter, so that is about $4.94 a gallon us. May need to up my estimate...

[@dentman67]

Wow that's crazy. Again good advice, that's something I most likely would have overlooked.

[@2404Pepe]

Great video!!! I'm Luis, from Bariloche, Argentina, now living in Mexico. I'm planning to travel from Guadalajara to Ann Arbor, MI, where I used to live. It'll be around two weeks trip. Camping most of it I have a 3000 thsnd. budget. I have a 2012 BMW R1200 RT and I'll be going alone. Good luck in your trip. Regards

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sounds like a nice trip. Ride safe and have a great time!

[@rodneybarcus2233]

That was a very helpful video sir. I only thought of about half of that long list. Thank you for posting

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Glad it was helpful, thanks!

[@robertjurkovic]

Useful video, thank you Craig! You explain pretty close every cost, that's good to know!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it.

[@frogmaster777]

Get 2 or3 national fuel cards so you can fuel up at cardlocks. You save a bit but if used for all travels it adds up. when traveling, turn phone off, use texting, messages will be waiting when you stop and turn phone on. When traveling up north make sure you have the range to make it to the next fuel stop! When my brother and I went up to Dawson City, I had to carry an extra gallon on the Wing so that the Shadow could make it. You only live once so have fun! Oh and have health insurance coverage, try to get one that also covers ambulances.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, we had a great time on the trip. We used our Visa and MasterCards with no problems. Just make sure that you tell your card companies when and where you are going. We also found that gas was plentiful as long as you did not pass up a chance to fill up. When we stopped, if there was gas we filled up. I changed my phone plan during the trip to include Canada. It cost an extra $25 for the month we were gone. There is not a lot of service outside the cities. We did buy travel insurance from Amex. It was extremely reasonable. The only other thing we did was to carry a Delorme inReach, which allowed our families to track us as well as provide SOS service and satellite texting. Thanks!

[@northerniltree]

I've camped on some stunning sites on federal (public) land out west. I hate KOA's and most campgrounds. I'm trying to leave the rest of the world behind. So, to gain a bit more comfort as well as cost control, I'm just now putting a trailer hitch on my 2018 Yamaha Venture. Actually, the hitch came today. Nice powdercoat hitch from Big Bike Parts. I got the wiring harness and module elsewhere, specific to this bike with a 4 and 5 connecting pin coupler. No splicing! I've been looking and learning about trailers. That's a whole 'nother chapter. The plan is to have nice gear, and a beverage cooler, and a separate food cooler. And, spare gas, oil and filters. Then, the public lands will be used as much as access availability and not too crazy topography allow. I'll have to research what's suitable as part of my trip planning beforehand. Every 3rd nite will be a motel or B&B. I stick to my budget about as well as the federal government does, so at least I have the ability to save when I can. I hope the trailer idea works well for me.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

We all have our preferences. I have been in some campgrounds (usually State and National Parks) that I did not enjoy, but I have found the KOA's to actually be kind of fun. You get to meet some nice people. But, I understand wanting to be alone too. I have also been thinking about a trailer and as you said, there is a lot to learn. I am still on the fence as the trailer will cost about as much as hotels for my next trip. We will see...Let us know how yours works out. Thanks!

[@stormperformance]

Craig! Your best video yet! Thanks a lot buddy, very helpful! Planning my next adventure! Cheers!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, appreciate the kind words!

[@kevingambrell]

If your going to be in a country for more than a few days pick up a pre paid sim card for your phone and just put the minimum credit on it. No roaming charges from your network, send a few text messages to the people that have to have your number so they can contact you. Im planning a trip from London England to Mongolia for next year and my budgit is a lot less than your looking at per week. Servicing costs on a bike are low if you do it your self and an oil change is about as easy as it gets, just the price of oil and filter. The bevel housing on my R1200gs wont need doing for the entire trip oil wise and the gearbox is pretty much the same. The Yanaha I would have thought but I dont know must have an oil change period mush the same as my BMW. Tyres are my big cost service wise but that cant be avoided. Good luck on your trip and thank you for the great videos. Say hello to massachusetts for me, I lived in Taunton for a time great place to be.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

The prepaid SIM card sounds like a good idea. In the past I have just gotten an international plan for the days I was in Canada. My US plan is placed in a suspended state during that time. So the monthly fee is about the same. Doing your own maintenence is of course cheaper, I guess it just depends if you want to do it or not. I am not going to carry the oil and filter with me, so I will have to buy it at a shop. If I am going to be there anyway I would rather let them do it and then go have lunch..LOL. There is no right or wrong, just depends on what you want to do. The Tenere is scheduled every 4k for oil and 8k for deferential. I would very interested to see your itenerary and budget. It would be very interesting to see a different approach. Thanks for watching, MA is hanging in there.

[@theoapbiker8398]

Well Craig two minds think alike...lol...I too have created a budget for my 12 week tour of the USA but I have the added cost of shipping my motorcycle from the UK to the USA & return! However, I have now got a figure & it is a total cost which covers all the categories in your excellent video of £15,000 ($18,750) for the entire 12 week tour & I have to stick to that figure! It has been very hard work planning my tour but also very enjoyable & not one day has passed in the last three months without me doing some kind of research on the Internet for the tour! It sounds you too have done tons of research but of course it will pay dividends in the long term!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yeah, I did not include shipping, but that could be a big cost. My two buddies are going to have to ship from Boston to wherever we end up starting. That cost will be around $500 - $600 each way. I cannot even imagine what it is to ship from Great Britain. Yes there is a lot of planning, but as you said, it is fun and keeps the trip in your imagination. I think that in the end it does pay off, at least that has been my experience. And as I have said before, the plan is just that, it does not mean that you cannot deviate from it if the need arises. Summer will be here soon!

[@theoapbiker8398]

Craig Ripley The cost of air cargo from the London to Washington DC is £1,100 ($1,375) and shipping it back to London from Los Angeles is £900 ($1,125) but of course that is at today's exchange rate so it could go up or down by May 2017! However, at present the GBP is now beginning to gain on the US Dollar so may it continue...lol...

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Well, I guess that is not too bad considering the distance. Surprising though that it is cheaper to send the bike back from the west coast than it is going into DC.

[@huyked]

I was thinking the same thing about the price difference shipping from L.A., compared to DC. Very weird!

[@theoapbiker8398]

Craig Ripley yes indeed my thoughts too when I got the quote! However, the reason being is that the bike is going from London to DC via air cargo which is more involved then shipping it from LA back via a shipping container!

[@arthurb8631]

I stayed recently at a smelly moldy motel. Stained floor but no bed bugs I checked. Honestly I was miserable I am going to check out best westerns now.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yep, you generally get what you pay for.

[@Isingdabodyelectric]

Thanks more tips are always helpful

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you!

[@richardmourdock2719]

Craig, Not sexy but darn important and well done. Sounds conservative, to be sure... especially on gasoline prices but who knows, one shot across the bow of a freighter in the Straits of Hormuz and it could be $4.00/gal. From my experience, the "maintenance" number is about right as long as the actual cost of the tires are not included, which I don't think you intended to do. Also, having one shop do the maintenance on all the bikes in your group might get you a bit of a discount. I'd definitely have a pro do the maintenance rather than do it yourself. You don't want to drain the oil on the ground somewhere and its too much of a hassle to have the oil catch pan, etc. This comment probably applies to your viewers as you know your buddies on this trip, but in a traveling group of this duration everyone needs to be "in synch" of sorts regarding the budget. Everyone operates on a budget, whether they write it down and plan it out or not. If one of your buds wants to do the $4 lunch time meal at the 7/11 and you want to do a $15 lunch, incompatibility will occur real quickly and lead to some tension. Even more if he wants to do the cheap hotel and you want the Best Western.. know this stuff before putting the kick stands up. Travel with like sorts. Inevitably, someone says, heading to the campground.. "Ill get a six pack for tonight" and everyone shares it and has a good time. The next night someone else gets the six pack.... and pretty soon it's ... "Hey, I bought one, you bought one.. how come Charlie hasn't bought one?" You see where I'm going with this. Unless you have a really compatible group, it can lead to a tense situation and take away from the enjoyment. Make a rule from the get/go.. "anything to be shared, save the receipt...at the end... add 'em all up and make sure it balances out so no one goes away unhappy. This is especially worth remembering when one guy registers in the campsite that holds all three tents...... Finally, nothing in the budget for tolls or ferries????.... May not be an issue for you depending on route... but my Alaska trip had a couple hundred bucks of ferries. Must U.S. insurance policies are good in Canada, but definitely worth checking to be sure. I didn't hear you mention taking actual cash vs. putting it all on the card. Just FYI, I generally try to carry half of what I expect the whole budget to be in cash. Seems to work well.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Good points Richard. For the maintenance, I definitely need to do further research; calling a shop or two. I imaging I am going to have to buy the tires and ship them to the dealer, but I am not sure. I will have to talk with the shop first. I agree, I don't want to be draining oil on the side of the road. I would rather have cup of coffer and let the pros do it. However, by buddies have chains, so they will at least be doing some oiling and adjustments. They are talking about getting the Scott oilier though. I also agree with you on making sure everyone is in sync. That is the biggest reason we are doing so much research and planning ahead of time. We have been sharing and discussing everything along the way and will continue to do so. I have been on tours were this is not the case...as I am sure we all have. The only ferry that I know of will be going from Dawson over to the Top of the World Highway. I did not budget specifically for that but I probably should have. I will also be on I-90 for a while and it has tolls, but I have an easy pass and I will add money to the account prior to leaving. I am not aware of any other toll roads, but you make a good point and I will look into it. I will carry some cash, not sure of the amount yet. I would think we can replenish our supply once we get to Anchorage--at least I hope...LOL. I will of course have some cash converted to Canadian currency before leaving. Thanks, once again for the great input!

[@richardmourdock2719]

The ferry across the Yukon at Dawson City is free... so no problem there. Also, I think your $15 at lunch budget is right for the states and Canada until you get north of Edmonton. I can only recall two "in café" lunches we had after that (over 27 days) . .. one at the 49th State Brewery near Healey AK (a MUST stop btw) and one near Delta Junction on the way back and that was largely to get out of the rain for an hour. The rest of those lunches were packed cheese and crackers, crackers and cheese, crackers and a can of tuna, beef jerky, peanut butter on a bagel and an apple, etc. We'd generally "dine" on those lunches after a gas stop. I really don't recall many diners of local cuisine along the roadside.. but then my buds were more into the cheese and crackers for lunch thing too and I was... adaptable. Glad to read, though not surprised to read that you are all in "synch" from your prior travels. Keep those campground receipts as one person will register with that one bike You will have a blast... Finally,.. I seriously doubt you'll need to ship the tires but do check to be sure (Anchorage and Fairbanks are well equipped).

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

We will definitely carry some snacks and water, just in case. Hell, I don't even know my license plate...LOL. Will have to work on that. Question...what about the campground showers; do they require coins like many of parks around here?

[@artmchugh9283]

Richard Mourdock some really good points made ! pretty much the reason we travel alone. I have found that one of the things that will ruin a trip is a second opinion! Don't get me started on the big group rides . unless it is to a parking lot breakfast meet , the i gotta pee then the next guy , four guys make it through the light 5 don't! pain in the ass.

[@Thomas-qk7wf]

Not sure if this was accounted for, but, if you're going to be hitting national parks, you may wanna look into whatever fee's are associated with getting into them. Looks like Denali and Glacier have entrance fees. Small, but, a fee none the less.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, you are correct, those should definitely be accounted for.

[@Sixbears]

My wife and I lost everything on a boat trip 1800 miles from home. (shipwreck, no kidding) That's when I discovered my local bank and credit union would not send replacement cards. Fortunately we also had a credit card account from a National bank. They had a replacement shipped to where we were staying in 3 days. Used that card to get home. Something to consider if worse comes to worse.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Wow..losing our credit cards could happen. Fortunately mine are national cards and are jointly held with my wife. We could also lose our passports, so having a photo copy, just in case might also be a good idea. Thanks!

[@chasingdogs]

hi. it was a lovely exhaustive analysis on cost that you did on this video and i loved it. However, if you dont need to carry the paper document (photocopies), you can get your regular documents scanned on to the app Evernote and carry it with you on your phone. I have been doing this for the past few years and i've never had any issue. Regards from India.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Chasing Gods Yes that is a good idea. After I wrote the comment I thought about uploading all important docs to OneDrive or Google Drive. Thanks!

[@dippitydoinit]

I've found that motels work best rather than hotels. You can park right in front of your room and keep an eye on your bike. Also, you can load and unload quick. However, the walls are usually thin and breakfast is not always offered. Good video though.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you! Everyone has their preferences in price range and amenities. It just depends on what you are comfortable with. We have stayed at some really nice small motels and also some pretty bad ones. That is why over the years we started leaning toward chains like Best Western--at bit more consistency. I agree that being able to park in front of your room is ideal, and in some case we have been able to do that at larger hotel chains. We have also been able to park the bikes in front of the hotels under cover. You just have to ask and usually it is fine as long as it does not block the other guests. There is no right or wrong, just what each of us prefers. Ride safe!

[@dippitydoinit]

I agree. You really have to research the motels to know what you are getting. I will be riding safe soon... I hope. #wintersucks

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yes it does. We are getting our third snow storm in as many days tomorrow...come on Spring!

[@bensweet6861]

This was helpful and eye opening thanks for doing this. Keep up the great thread.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, appreciate it!

[@allan8371]

This July 2019 we are doing an Ottawa Ontario to Dawson City Yukon ride to sample the "Sourtoe Cocktail", with a couple of one day visits to Chicken & Skagway Alaska . I see that this video was made in 2016. Wanted to comment on my findings of costs across Canada in 2019 dollars.. Like you we will split our lodging with camping approx 29 out of 39 days. Campsites are priced from $25 -$30 at private sites in most cases. Reservations are recommended but I did contact a few & they said to roll in and they would find a space for us. The hotels we booked are in British Columbia & Yukon. The prices ranges from $135 to $170. These are decent places. We are staying at a hostel near Whitehorse for $35 a night. These are in Canadian dollars so if you are American your costs will be less. If you will be near Creston BC you would want to check out one or both of these campsites catering to motorcyclists. cinbird.wixsite.com/ridersranch www.toadrockcampground.com/ We will be visiting Tofino on Vancouver Island then taking the ferry from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert ($500 to get on & off the Island). Pricey but worth the experience. Here is a link to a helpful app to determine your fuel costs www.gasbuddy.com/TripCostCalculator So, wherever everyone is heading to this year, Ride safe.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@ericdrews5050]

The correct answer to trip cost is there is no correct answer. Your budget is about $1000 a week. Others squeak by on $1000 a month. It all depends on your lifestyle. Your process was very detailed and works perfectly for YOU. Enjoy your Alaska trip.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I don't recall saying that my budget has to be everyone's budget. I fact I said not to go into debit for a trip and hotel or lodging cost were a personal decision. I explained why I choose the lodging I do, but it does not have to be anyone else's choice. If YOU have a better way of doing it, then by all means create a video as I would love to learn. And thank you, the Alaska trip was fantastic!

[@ericdrews5050]

Living Off The Slab not was my intention to demean your process or video

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

@@ericdrews5050 Thank you and I am sorry if I misinterpreted you intentions.

[@yycabj]

Well done , thanks

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks for watching!

[@adventurehobbies1272]

Hello Craig, love your vids. Looking foward to see your Alaska trip. Can you review the PIAA lights

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Ok, I will put them on the list. I have a couple of other electrical things to get to as well. Thanks!

[@wlewis001fjr]

A good solid thought provoking video...thanks

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@huyked]

Wow! That is quite the trip! After your budgeting, were you surprised by the amount you came up with, and did a "gulp" enter in at anytime? :D Great tips by the way. Thank you for the video. Great job with the addition graphics for the video. Very nice work.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, glad you liked the video! No, I was really not surprised. It is right in the ball park of what I was thinking. I hope not to have to dip into the emergency funds, but $4000 to $4500 would not be surprising. Of course there are also the cost of purchasing a bike, outfitting it, buying camping gear, etc... Motorcycling is an expensive sport.

[@huyked]

Craig Ripley Ah. That's always good it wasn't a surprise. Me, too. Glad to hear you haven't had to use the emergency fund. But it's so smart of you to set calculate for. I'm just starting to get into motorcycling. I can already see it taking my "play" money. :D Haha!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yep, plan for the worst, hope for the best. Motorcycling can get expensive, but it is worth it. In particular it is something my wife and I have enjoyed doing together. We have met a lot of great people and had many wonderful experiences. Have fun and ride safe!

[@souum1883]

thkx for all those helpful info and good luck for the next

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Souu m, Thank you!

[@krobarrides9028]

Fantasticc video Thank you. 7 pages of notes!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Oh wow! Glad you found some useful information!

[@sergioandre8759]

Perhaps it is better to add to the planned costs, a satellite phone and a personal tracker devise. All the best from Portugal.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I have been considering an emergency device of some kind. The Delorme InReach is what I was looking at. I did not include it in the budget because I think under most circumstances a cell phone will be all that is needed. Only when traveling to remote areas is the tracker warranted. I am going to talk with my riding partners and I might purchase one and then we can split the service costs during the trip. Thanks, good suggestion!

[@sergioandre8759]

I thank you for being useful, in any case, the better equipped you are, the more I will learn (I am also preparing a trip to 2017! Maybe here in Europe, BUT, with so much organization appearing here in Front of my eyes for Alaska, and traveling in the USA being a child's dream ...), the current technology is spectacular, but, it is not as expensive as a few years ago, it also takes up little space and weight, and saves Lives. Even satellite internet exists, and it works practically on the whole planet (it works in Iran, North Korea I do not know)For me the family has a very important role, if they are well, I am too, and as I know if I am well, so are they. Cheers.

[@losttouristpresents]

Great tips and advice! Thanks for video. Your dollar will go along way up here !

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you sir, appreciate it!

[@online_screen_name]

Agree so much. Though admittedly I budget for everything.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yep, you have to budget for a long trip. Thanks!

[@yaseen2002]

Craig, thanks for the info.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Your welcome!

[@mattbaxter3170]

Keep a Pre-Paid Phone card in your wallet too. Could get you out of a bind if your phone is dead or out of service at a remote hotel with "Local Calls Only". They are especially useful outside the US. I used to use one when snowmobiling in Northern Ontario all the time.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Good idea. I actually have a credit care that doubles as a phone card.

[@TheDailyRider]

If you need tires/oil change, you should plan $1000 I'm thinking. Ref the US to CDN exchange at 0.75 US dollar to the Canadian, you will do better than you think but you will only be in Canada for a few days. Looking forward to the trip videos.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yeah, I did not check the exchange rate before I spoke. My mistake. If I include the tires in the cost, you are correct. I was think I would have the tires and ship them up to the dealer. I did not clarify that and should have included that in my estimate. Thanks!

[@Loudpedal10]

Sounds like a great trip you guys have planned! Are you going all the way up the Dalton highway?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

No not on this trip. We had to decide between, Glacier National Park, the Ice Fields Parkway and several other things. Riding all the way to up Prudhoe Bay would have meant leaving some of the other things out. We will just have to make another trip. Thanks!

[@fakeappellation7343]

I'm not sure what you meant by ''my dollar won't go as far when we go to Canada''. One US dollar is now worth $1.32 CAN.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

You are correct, I made a mistake. I thought the Canadian dollar was a little stronger.

[@bamahi7142]

I would add that the group should all agree on the seat time during the day and try to stick to it. Morning to early evening, then done, or late morning start to early evening then done, etc. I've seen groups not set boundaries on seat time and burn up daylight hours and return to camp/hotel at 2am in the morning. Not very good planning in my humble opinion. I would say night riding should be limited only to emergencies. Too many things can go wrong riding at night.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I agree, we have no night riding planned. We have not agreed on seat time, persay, just mileage. We have set the dIstance travel each day to something easily accomplished with 10 to 12 hours. Baring unforseen circumstances of course. Thanks!

[@bamahi7142]

I'm glad I stumbled into your channel! Excellent content. Ride safe!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you, appreciate it!

[@GTsGarage]

Some great budgeting tips fella.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@chas106g.6]

I like your videos. Very informative. I have a victory vision but have not been able to do any real touring on it yet. I think I will start with small trips, and then work my way up. I am 34 and my buddy says my Vision is an old man's bike, but I have never ridden a bike like this before that makes me want to keep going. I came off of a triumph tiger 1050, which was nice, but does not compare to the comfort of my victory. Do you plan on doing any update videos about your vision as far as reliability?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

The Vision is a great bike. The most comfortable touring bike out there. Don't worry about what you buddy says. When you pull into a gas station, everyone will want to know about your bike not his. I did do a long term review a couple of years ago. Here is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2OuqmWlq8Z8nrs. I now have just under 60K in my Vision and have never had a major issue. Some small ones yes, and of course routing maintenance. Ride Safe!

[@chas106g.6]

+Craig Ripley (Living Off The Slab) Thanks for the link! I will be sure to watch it. I have experienced the gas station stops you speak of where people come out of the wood work, it's entertaining for sure. Thanks!

[@rodneydrover8392]

Great video and thank you. FYI, your American dollar will serve you very well in Canada...:)

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@hershchat]

You think an update on this is timely? The world seems to have changed, you have the 60-60 trip behind you, and more people are more in need of guidance.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Sure, that is a good suggestion.

[@bikeboy0012]

fuel here in the west is 225ish/gal hope you find better fuel costs in yoyr trip

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks! I hope that fuel prices stay down, but I am still going to plan for them going up during the summer.

[@marccampsm]

Did anybody mention tolls? In Europe we've got hundreds of them. And what about ferrys to make shortcuts?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Good point. I did not include tolls, but there will be some. No ferries though. The only one we will be taking is free to my understanding. Thanks.

[@madmaxxmad2]

nice color on that victory

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks!

[@EnContra808]

Great video very helpful!

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thanks, glad you liked it!

[@EnContra808]

I really do, currently I am planning my Continental Divide Trail trip for 2017. Thank you very much for your video

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That sounds like a great trip.

[@logik23]

Your dollar will actually go farther in Canada as every 100$ you trade in will get you 130-135$ of Canadian money these days

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

You are correct, my mistake. Thanks!

[@arniepries6480]

your US $ will be worth about 20-25% more in Canada

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yes, I did not check the exchange rate before the video, i was going from memory from a few years back...That's what happens when you get old...LOL.

[@johnnygross4415]

yes the canooks arent stupid, all the prices are higher. buy a 6 pack of beer $20-$25 Can.@Trevor Johnson

[@Meowbox9000]

I just pulled over and went under a bridge. or ride down some train tracks and sleep there. then again my budget is 20 a day over gas.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

$20 a day, wow, don't think I could do that. Do you do that because of monetary constraints, or do you just like to keep things simple? How long are your trips like this?

[@Meowbox9000]

some times over 3 mouths. i put 50000 miles on a 1979 cb 750 in 2 years. i had money because i worked almost every day when i was not travailing and lived outside to save money. built my own house when i was 20 out of bamboo in Florida. i packed para-shoots at skydiving boogies to make cash on the road and worked at music festivals. some of my best experiences on a bike are because i tried to sleep on a park bench and someone saw me. they liked me and invited me in for food and drink. i would share a story and they would share some fire. you never know how great people are if you don't give people a chance to show you. i never begged for a thing in my life however i have gotten a lot of help from people who wanted to see a kid make it another day on the road. i was drawn threw the country by a tied of well wishers and sinners. i tried for 20 a day because i never new when i was going to stop and tried to never go more that 250 miles a day.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Awesome! Sounds like the kind of stuff I wanted to do when I was young, but got caught up in the rat race. Trying to catch-up now. Thanks for sharing!

[@Meowbox9000]

im in the rat race know and its why i watch people like you living it up. very good to see content like yours and dont get me wrong im 30 know and would have a hard time convincing my wife to sleep on the tracks. however i made my comment more to keep people in my old position for being discouraged. there is way more than 1 way to do it right and sadly i think im getting to the point ware a hotel sounds good if i can swing it.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Absolutely, there is no one way to tour. There are numerous folks our there that travel on very limited budgets. What I was trying to do with this video, is just to be honest. I hear so many stories of people who travel the world, but very rarely are the costs of doing something like that addressed. If we camped every day, or slept on the tracks, we could cut our cost by a couple thousand dollars. But there are trade-offs in doing those things; such as, comfort and interacting with other people. It depends on what you can afford, but also the type of experience you want to have. Good point, maybe I will have to do another video and touch on this topic. Thanks!

[@gregkollasch5494]

I usually like to try to stick to my normal diet, as much as possible when traveling. I'll be pretty miserable otherwise.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Me too for the most part, but if there is a local speciality, I will give it a try...within reason. If it sounds like it will upset set my system, I will shy away.

[@gapadry]

how about cash, i think you need some cash with you, i believe the emergency money should be cash. but i don't calculate 20% but i calculate how much it would cost me to send my motorcycle home and my transport from the farest point plus 2 extra days hotel and food

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yeah, I will carry some cash. I will have enough for meals and little emergency cushion, but hotels, fuel and other big ticket things will be paid with credit cards. If I do run out of cash, it can be replenished at any bank or ATM. And, I will of course convert some dollars to Canadian currency before we leave Thanks for pointing it out, I did not mention cash in the video.

[@luismendoza9707]

Was this for a ONE-WAY or a Round Trip?

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

+Luis Mendoza, Round trip

[@luismendoza9707]

WHAT!!! then the trips i want to take are definitely in my budget!!! Hey man your video has been the Best i've seen, you covered the topics i had questions about & more, now i'm just thinking about how much more i want too see. Hell i'm even considering working as a Day Laborer nation wide & just hauling a Tiny Teardrop Trailer for a couple months... Thank You.

[@curlyhoward5426]

2003-2204, Solo year long lap around the America's, from NW Montana down the Andes to tip of S.A. and back up the Amazon, 24000. miles, KLR650, $60usd/day including women expenses. 2015-2016, Solo year long around ALL the Philippines islands, Honda XR125 dirt bike, $48usd/day. Adventure travel page @ facebook.com/wildlands1

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

That is excellent, I am around $128 per day, but includes hotel stays and campground fees. Did you wild camp all of the time? And what did you eat? Thanks!

[@gman77gas]

You have to find like minded people to travel with....otherwise there will be problems in where to stay, where to eat, how much to spend..

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

You are correct. That is why we are doing so much planning and practicing together, and why it is best to keep the group small. The more personalities you throw into the mix the harder it gets. Thanks!

[@GARYCHRISTIAN9]

travel to canada will cut your dollar costs by up to 25%. your dollar will go much further in canada..

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Yep, did that in 2017.