Field Testing the 'Best Value' Motocamping Kit + First Camping Trip on the 2024 KTM 790 Adventure

I worked with ‪@MotoCampNerd‬ to put together what we feel is the best value motocamping gear kit. This motorcycle camping gear isn't the absolute cheapest (because that stuff doesn't last) but it is the lowest cost gear we'd recommend for someone who wants to get into moto camping and wants good quality gear that's going to last. You can buy more expensive gear but this stuff hits a real sweet spot in terms of cost and quality, in my opinion. I made a full video running down the features of each piece of this ADV camping kit which you can check out here: • "Best Value" Motocampi...
In this video, I put this motocamping gear to the test on an actual motorcycle camping trip. Camping in the spring is awesome for many reasons, and this motocamping trip was particularly special because I ended up having an entire campground to myself! This trip was a blast and the perfect test of my best value motocamping gear setup and my brand new 2024 KTM 790 Adventure.
Motocamping Gear in this video:
(affiliate links)
Alps Mountaineering Helix 2 Person Tent: motocampnerd.com/products/alp...
Helix 2 Footprint:
motocampnerd.com/products/alp...
Big Agnes Echo Park 20 Sleeping Bag:
motocampnerd.com/products/big...
Big Agnes Divide Insulated Sleeping Pad:
motocampnerd.com/products/big...
Nemo Fillo Camping Pillow: motocampnerd.com/products/nem...
Jetboil Flash w/Java Kit: motocampnerd.com/products/jet...
Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow: motocampnerd.com/products/sea...
Bigfoot Bushcraft Firestarters: bigfoot-bushcraft.com/?ref=dork
Big Agnes Mica Basin Camp Chair: motocampnerd.com/products/big...
UST Spright Solar Lantern: motocampnerd.com/products/ust...
MotoCamp Nerd Flask: motocampnerd.com/products/mot...
Sea to Summit X-Mug Cool Grip: motocampnerd.com/products/sea...
Mora Bushcraft Black: amzn.to/34YOhgV
Big Agnes Shovelhead Down Jacket: motocampnerd.com/products/big...
Exped Widget Pump:
motocampnerd.com/products/exp...
Tusk Highland X2 Rackless Luggage System: tinyurl.com/37exmfky
Motorcycle Gear:
MSR Xplorer Pants: bit.ly/3XnE2IE
MSR Xplorer Jacket: bit.ly/3ZIPCjg
MSR Enduro Hydration Pack: tinyurl.com/5n7fm3ue
Alpinestars Corozal Boots: imp.i104546.net/k09nQn
Shoei Hornet X2 Helmet: imp.i104546.net/XY3vxG
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Support me on Patreon: www.patreon.com/user?u=26709234
Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Please consider using these affiliate links:
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq
Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z
Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/4eMdJZ
MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork
Giant Loop: www.giantloopmoto.com/?ref=dork
Cyclops Adventure Lighting: www.cyclopsadventuresports.co...
Thank you for supporting the channel by clicking on the affiliate links in this description.
FULL DISCLOSURE: MotoCamp Nerd pays me to create content for his KZbin channel. This isn't a "sponsorship" per se, but it does mean I use their products exclusively and may impact my opinions about camping gear. Fortunately their stuff is good so I'm happy to recommend it, but just FYI.
Disclaimer for reasons: I am not a professional journalist, expert motorcycle rider, or a mechanic. These videos are for entertainment purposes and represent my personal opinions and experiences. I'm just a dude who isn't even good at riding or making videos, so be smart and don't risk life or limb trying to follow my example or advice.

[@DualSportDuffer]

I got a new Dork in the Road video, I got a Mr. Puff Puff, I got a brewed hot beverage, and I’m sitting on the back porch in the Appalachians listening to it rain. I have a ride on my DRZ planned in the Nantahala National Forest tomorrow. Life is pretty dang sweet right now.

[@user-yo1pk4ky4k]

Sounds like you are enjoying the true spirit of the Dork, enjoying a hot beverage on the back porch listening to it rain. Right on! The thing about us Americans, we work so hard and sometimes do not stop to enjoy the fruits of our labor. Like you plan, time to get out on the moto rig and have some fun. Keep 'er between the ditches, my friend!

[@woundedtiger7547]

Always Good 😊

[@ynotjf]

You know Ben.. You recommend the MSR Explorer Riding Gear several months ago and based on your recommendation I purchased a set for myself. It didn’t work out well for me because it fit poorly so I returned it but.. you are still wearing your MSR gear and that tells me you are a man of your word and your recommendation have meaning! Thanks for your honesty..

[@MarcSherwood]

The way that your sleeping bag connects with the pad is a feature that I did not know that I needed, or that it existed, before this video. Last year I splurged on a high-end bag, but now think it is lacking. Watching your videos is now costing me money, but I can't stop watching them now. I'll send you the invoice at the end of the quarter.

[@user-yo1pk4ky4k]

This was one giant ad for Motocamping Nerd, but it was so authentic. Nice touch to bring up wisdom your father taught you. That nugget about leaving the door open for opportunity was dead on. The chickens will always come home to roast -- if you do good things, good things will return! I really liked how you kicked back to enjoy a good cigar and a Coors Light; without some personal enjoyment we become like Church Lady from SNL -- cold and efficient and dead to the world. Life is for living! As far as firewood goes, I find it more convenient and free to carry a small folding bow saw. In a few minutes you can have a night's worth of firewood from surrounding dead wood within a few hundred feet and at the same time removing some fuel load from the forest. That is a good two-fer. Nice video, Dork!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yeah you're not allowed to harvest around campgrounds in these parts. Which makes sense because if everyone did it there would be no woods to enjoy. Appreciate the view and the compliments!

[@andyackerman7123]

You had me at 18 inch zucchini ❤❤❤

[@marklanders630]

When I worked construction I'd start drinking Coors light at seven in the morning and finish up around ten at night. That and two packs of Marlborough a day took its toll though. Last time I had a cigar I thought it would kill me. Heart was racing like crazy. I'm 55 now, run 3-5 miles a day, don't drink or smoke anymore. Honestly, I feel better now than I felt in my twenties.

[@darcyh2889]

Hey mate. Very much enjoyed your video and took a lot away from your philosophical outlook. I've followed you for some time from my home in Newcastle, New South Wales Australia and have just bought a himalayan and have been setting it up and getting some dirt time to feel comfortable on the bike. I'm a reasonably fit 57yo and your video blogs have certainly helped to calm my own anxieties of the "unknowns". Keep up the good work and the openness of your experiences. 👍👌

[@mikem9953]

Man did you nail it with talking yourself out of it, nit picking the ‘minimal’ work involved and being negative. That is so me! Then you do it and you’re yelling to yourself under your helmet ‘This is awesome! I should’ve left yesterday! Next weekend for sure!’ But then it seems to be the same old fight with myself. Yes I’m an odd duck, with major depressive disorder. Not fun, but just get off your azz and do it, and it really is a lot of fun. Bonus, totally legit reason to buy a bike. 🤣 I know I’m preaching to the choir here, but that hit me like a ton of bricks. Also, that waterfall was amazing! Like something you see in the movies from another country or something. Very cool videos sir. Can’t wait for my 2024 KLX 230 to come in Cheers, Mike.

[@1905flyer3]

As I sit here in my MotoCampNerd shirt, I think I’ll run to my favorite campsite tomorrow night. Thanks Dork, Ben and Mary!

[@BLKXJ96]

The ASMR morning pack up is so appropriate. I think a beer can Coozie would be a cool addition the the store also...

[@dstubby82]

18:45 These kinds of hobbies are so helpful because they're meditative in at least two fashions. 1. Challenging riding keeps you in the zone of proximal development (very rewarding by itself), where your brain is forced to only be "in the moment." 2. Quiet time in nature allows your mind to wander and reflect opening up room for both serendipity and introspection. Long story short: Go outside. 😁

[@robertmcmahon1221]

Good job staging different shots

[@NunyaBusiness...]

I ordered stuff from @MotoCampNerd and I can't wait to get out and use it! I don't camp off a bike, but if it's good enough on a bike the space saved in a little truck is huge too! I appreciate you pointing me in his direction.

[@leighhill9185]

Just sit and be. Love it mate, awesome vid and real talk, I love it for all the same reasons! Legend :)

[@jrodriguez8216]

Love moto camping videos. I enjoy when you combine the particulars about the equipment and what you do. This teaches us who want to get into it. Also the general set up. More please.

[@BdaciousM]

You are the man. Great video. Very entertaining and informative. Was glad you put all the gear to work from the previous video. I'm becoming a big fan of the channel and that 790!

[@jasongratz4348]

Great video!! I think the set up and tear down is all part of the experience!! Really like the moto camp videos!!

[@mrmbr]

COOOOKIE crisp. Nothing better than just enjoying the moment, a fire and time to reflect

[@JoeImburgia]

What a great video! Very inspirational, Dork!

[@74motorhead]

Great video as always. I wanted to thank you, I started watching your videos about six months ago and now I have to bikes. So thank you !

[@Anath525]

This video was genuinely awesome. I can't really explain it but damn it made me feel very happy. I really love the set up you show cased in the video, especially the sleeping bag and pillow technique!

[@luffypelao]

I really enjoyed this video. Very natural and authentic, one can feel that it is there with you. Thank you, greetings from Spain!!

[@rickybobby1055]

Beautiful waterfall, awesome job on not giving up and making the trek so we could get a peek! Absolutely amazing

[@cloydchiro]

The quiet time hits deep AF! Love my mountain camping.

[@JeffreysGrabItAndGrowl]

One of the best videos yet! And yes, Cascadia Park awesome 😎! See ya at Great Loop 😊!

[@sethgray4773]

Man Ben I love your videos and they get me so excited to get out and camp! Looking to do quite a bit of moto camping this year off my 2015 Husky 501 🤘

[@osimnod]

Your dad's wisdom could be related to the Boy Scouts Slogan: Do a good turn daily. Reviewing the Oath, Law and Motto isn't a poor choice of time, either. Thanks for sharing this episode of returning to nature.

[@black_widow_overland]

Man.. Watching these moto camp videos makes me wanna go moto camp. To bad it's like winter out there and I'm at work 😒. Safe travels. Great content

[@Haytifdad]

Well done Sir... ambiance, angles, and alcohol.

[@urbancavemanintheak7732]

Great video Ben. Keep up the good work!

[@blubbertalk]

Been watching you for years Ben, got my sleeping pad and bag because of you and its been amazing. This video made me smile, still love your energy and everything you do, please keep at it! Hope to run into you out on the road someday

[@cyconlon908]

Just found this channel. Love It. Will be nonstop watching. Central Indiana resident. 30 years of street riding sport bikes and cruiser. Love backpacking and camping. Strangely have never moto camped. Looking forward to my first dual sport or small adventure bike.

[@advredbikes]

You have to love that you get the neck gator in almost every video these days, I think we all feel that way Ben when we’re looking to go out somewhere and think it’s too much to pack too much to set up and then we’re out there we go why did they think that, thanks for sharing. Thanks for sharing and yes steam is hot and thanks very much for the content. Moto Camp nerd has great products. Look forward to the next video.

[@brucet1467]

I know you probably won't read this, Dork in the road, but for anyone else that does. Dehydrated meals prep instructions are only good up to like 4,000 feet. and you should double the time for every 4,000 feet added. However, from my experience, if you are at 6,000 feet then you should add an extra 5ish minutes to the cook time. You won't get the dry stuff in your meal when you do this. I hope this helps anyone that reads it!

[@frankmorales3471]

Great video, I appreciate your commentary on random subjects. Being in nature and the silence of the outside world rejuvenates your mind.

[@Rolltide530]

Just ordered my new Big Agnes | Echo Park 40°F sleeping bag from the ole Moto Camp Nerd! Can wait to use it on my upcoming motorcycle camping trip. Thanks for the videos🤘🤘. Be safe.

[@MD-4]

Awesome video. Can't wait to do this very soon

[@JeffreysGrabItAndGrowl]

PS glad to see you took the hike! I have those boots too and are amazingly comfortable for hiking. Not the lightest of course but found they work well here in Arizona too protecting from cactus, snakes and other crawlers…

[@ttrguy9952]

Ben Favorite channel of all time! Love it Bud! 👍👍 Ride SAFE and BE safe!

[@ukjeeper]

Glorious scenery. Reminds me of the HOH rainforest.

[@knappdaddy]

Note to self: Steam is hot ! Thanks for that bit of wisdom, glad you found out for me😂 So happy you get to enjoy your work so much !

[@SydewayzStan]

Awesome campground. I've used the Echo Park 20 bag down to 30 degrees and it works great for me. This was with sleeping in sweatpants and a hoodie also and I was toasty.

[@Just4Gordon]

Great idea for the neck gator as a pillow (fillo) cover👍

[@AllenSpeck]

Nice setup!

[@mrmbr]

Motocamping with the Dork. My favorite vids!

[@goatman3828]

You are aware that your camp shoes are equivalent to steel toe boots in most of the warmer countries in the world. Ive seen guys welding on bridges in flip-flops! Climb 100 ft trees barefoot. It is kinda amazing juat how soft we are in America. I need shoes just to make the hike to the bathroom! Love your no B.S. channel. You are a natural comedian. 🍻

[@easy4steve]

hey , great video , you are right to get out and enjoy life , good to see you riding to 790 , i hope you are enjoying it . looks the part . awesome stuff . yes i ride KTM . cheers Steve/Australia

[@TheMotoShaman]

"I'm so sweaty, but look!" Write this on my tombstone! The older I get the more opportunities I look for sitting and being...

[@jnel57]

Very entertaining video and relatable. I love motorcycle camping but while traveling I find that unless you are going to stay for at least 2 nights then it is a lot of work and you lose 2 hours of riding time from set and tear down and so I elect to stay at hotels to get further down the road Best video in awhile and I thank you for the comic relief

[@davyboycolon530]

I really enjoy your content and your prospective on the motorcycle community and life in general

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you very much!

[@anneligustafsson16]

Back to motocamping! Well done. Going on an offroad training camp this weekend. We are going to sleep in tents. Worried to freeze to death. We still have below freezingpoint in the nights here in Sweden. I have decided to testcamp on our yard to night to test my gear. 😂

[@markust8904]

i enjoyed this vid, and your rambling at that lovely empty campsite. Getting away from the world, sit and have a beer, and just be, fantastic. Getting that camp fire setup was wonderful and comforting. The dehydrated meal not so much. If you made real food this would be excellent+. I would make an attempt to camp there, if it would stop F****** snowing here so i could go.

[@POLEXICANHUSSAR]

For the longest time you have reminded me of someone. I finally figured it out when you said, "Once Ive gone some place worth going, probably not going anywheres else" That and the bit about the Zucchini... You remind me of Ricky from TPB :P

[@turbolag5107]

Those are some great sticks.

[@henryvaneyk3769]

You guys in the US have access to so much good stuff.

[@AT2021Rocker]

This was true DITR video! That KTMis a photobomb devil, always sneaking into the shot, lol!

[@blackhawkhockey]

I like your philosophy Mr. Dork!

[@missirritated4872]

Love your channel! Blessings from homeless in Indiana

[@soilsmanadv6673]

what an awesome day to camp off the bike.

[@shreedevi2005]

That neck gaiter/buff as a pillow case is genius.

[@aleczanderg8765]

Those cookie bites are awesome. They are my creature comfort when backpacking.

[@owenminor]

Peak Refuel curry meal is the best they have. OMG it's sooooo good for freeze dried.

[@2fastnlight]

View through the wheel is cool, you should add one in more camp vids

[@Yardsale17]

Hey if this was on the 17 it was my birthday, and I was camping in the redwoods love the content will definitely be looking to get some moto camping gear

[@Genericname218]

thanks ben

[@Kabanaboy6]

Cheers Ben!!

[@Kabanaboy6]

😂

[@819jt]

Your hat is super rad 🤘🤘🤘

[@MotoCampAdv]

Good person Ben is .

[@aznbcu2006]

Love the cigar session New sub

[@user-hq7rb5hv7s]

Great relaxing video....I felt my stress leaving me.....bring it on....the camping has begun for another season. Keep up the great work. Garth

[@givannimikel4586]

I remember cookie crisp commercials from the 90s...I'm now old....I'll go cry now.

[@MotoFishy]

I recently slept in the Big Agnes Echo Park 20 and it was 38 out that night. I didn't even need to zip it up all the way. Those things are very likely better than their ratings.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Yeah I was super warm on this trip as well.

[@ctjanney]

Yeah, camping is super simple, if you don't make it complicated in your head. If you know how to do that, let me know. I've been planning a camping trip since November. Only myself to blame. Just get out there!!

[@MotoCampNerd]

Happens to me too sometimes.

[@turbolag5107]

You know I just had a thought, check out the Perdomo 30th year anniversary sticks they just came out with. I have tried all three shades and they are all amazing. I think the sun grown was my favorite.

[@ShaneMcGlaun]

You’ll need the adapter for the exped widget if you use a big Agnes sleeping pad. Motocampnerd sells the part or the file to 3d print one.

[@nobodyshero200]

I was hoping to see upper soda falls!😊

[@owenminor]

Let Peak sit for 15-20 min. The package insulates really well. Use more water on most flavors. Esp curry. It gets you more lovely juice.

[@MotoCampNerd]

This is the way

[@Jeredsmith]

Hey ben i do the same with trying to plan a trip or a big ride so far. I think some of the big things for me is I feel bad for leaving my animals behind. I definitely feel the packing everything on the bike and trying to to over pack.

[@human1513]

Never forget to eat specially bought cookies. LOL. I would be lucky if they made it to the destination.

[@TheTrajan1968]

I am also a “Ben”, have ordered some more merch from MotoCamp Nerd including my Dork gaiter. Have fun out there!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Bens are so smart!

[@maxk5134]

Dig the shirt 👍

[@combathacker4257]

Great video, thanks for sharing. I just got a 790 ADV, what size rackless bags are you running on that?

[@petekraemer6613]

Love this stuff-and remember, Monch monch magically takes weight off of motorcycles ;- )

[@pinecone3604]

Awesome video! Where has Tim been anyways????

[@Metaldamien]

I am getting my first motorcycle in a couple weeks. I have been camping and hunching my whole life and I'm going to film my first motorcycle camping vlog. When I get the bike I'll tag you in it

[@jessemarshall7176]

When I used to smoke cigars those were my go to’s

[@rlpatton1970]

Nice country in Oregon.. so different from my area in Colorado

[@benfox4263]

Can I come camp with you bro! That looks awesome!

[@southerngentleman5321]

yep soft liners are the best, more cumfy, quieter too. Go to Tasmania Ben, you wont be disappointed and sooo many free spots, free wood, drinking water and fishing.

[@GlennO1961]

25:50 Peanut butter & beer? Modern day interpretation of manna & honey. Food of the gods. Now if MotoCampNerd could only ship internationally...🤔

[@paulliebenberg3410]

Jeez this makes me remember that half of my moto camping buddies have passed away (as in from natural causes, getting old) so maybe I'll light up a Mr Puff-Puff next time I'm out. (I stopped doing cigars on a regular basis 40 years ago) Anyway, great video---the solo shtick must be tiring, I know I couldn't do what you do.

[@cliff1551]

21:01 think that saying is what goes around comes around

[@Hoshi_Toranaga]

FDA was unable to prove that puffing of cigars has a negative health effect, hence should not considered smoking by your insurance. Also I recommend you try Valentino Siesto cigars, best I had so far, even beats my previous favorite the Fuente Forbidden X.

[@MsBugs2]

I’m leaving Sweet Home on June 1 headed for tuktoyaktuk. Maybe see you on the road

[@DorkintheRoad]

have a great trip!

[@jeffhopper3186]

23:10 Pro tip: To use the igniter on the jet boil, turn the gas way down to a much lower level. Once the fire is started you can crank it up!

[@DorkintheRoad]

I'll give it a shot.

[@myronhorvathsk]

When you’re lighting your Jetboil or trying using the prezo igniter try not opening the gas valve near as far as you did. Open the gas valve so just a little is coming out. I think the oxygen/gas ratio is too saturated with fuel to not light.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I'll give it a shot.

[@lesnorquist897]

Good stuff 👍 I like that we can camp with you and get up in the morning with you and……..not smell your breath 🤣 and you don’t have to smell mine 🤣

[@markchoitz443]

great show Ben, do you think the Quartzville Road is open yet all the way to Highway 22?

[@DorkintheRoad]

I would be surprised. Probably gonna be snow up there until June.

[@endonutz]

I’m headed to the Nerd, time to update…

[@cliff1551]

21:01 think that saying what goes around comes around