My Favorite Motorcycle Camping Gear of 2023

As 2023 draws to a close and people are thinking about their holiday shopping, it seems like a fantastic time to look back fondly on the best motorcycle camping gear I've used this year. I spend a lot of nights sleeping in the backcountry and motorcycle camping and this is the motocamping gear I've found completely indispensable this year.
Whether you're looking for the best motocamping tent, best motocamping sleeping pad, best motorcycle camping chair, or the best option for carrying water on your motorcycle, this list of my favorite moto camping gear has you covered.
Last year’s best motocamping gear video still stands and I still use and love almost everything on it.
• My Favorite Motorcycle...
My favorite motorcycle camping gear of 2023
(affiliate links where possible):
MotoCamp Nerd Flask ($24): motocampnerd.com/products/mot...
Exped Widget Pump ($50):
motocampnerd.com/products/exp...
Giant Loop Cactus Canteen ($99 for one gallon): www.giantloopmoto.com/product...
Big Agnes Mica Basin Camp Chair ($150): motocampnerd.com/products/big...
Benchmade Bugout folding knife ($190):
www.benchmade.com/collections...
Kelty Far Out 2 Tent ($200): motocampnerd.com/products/kel...
Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated ($180): motocampnerd.com/products/big...
(same as Q Core Deluxe if you can find one cheap on clearance)
(alternate) Big Agnes Divide Insulated ($120): motocampnerd.com/products/big...
Enlightened Equipment Quilt ($335): motocampnerd.com/products/cop...
You can order custom ones directly from EE. Other quilt options abound but this is the one I use and like.
Garmin InReach Mini 2 ($400): motocampnerd.com/products/gar...
MSR Xplorer Jacket ($420): bit.ly/3ZIPCjg
MSR Xplorer Pants ($360): bit.ly/3XnE2IE
Other MSR riding gear I recommend:
MSR ADV Cold Weather Gloves: bit.ly/3jsKhfx
MSR Xplorer Mid Layer Jacket: bit.ly/3XThqA4
MSR Dual Sport/ADV Socks: bit.ly/3lbjHZa
MSR Adventure Boots: bit.ly/3nVkkal
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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.

[@ApocalypseNouille]

One thing that is often overlooked with the Garmin InReach or similar communicators: don't forget the insurance! Garmin has a Search and Rescue insurance plan for $40/year that covers up to $100K in rescue costs. Anyone getting on a helicopter ride will potentially be on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars. $40 is a small cost for peace of mind if shit happens.

[@PNW-ADV]

Interesting. Sounds worth it! ....ill look into it.

[@GrizzlyDaddams]

I'll be starting with a backpack strapped to my seat, full of my normal camping gear.😂 Ima be a bulky boy.

[@netterjeff4013]

That’s how I started. Get some rock straps though. They’ll help with strapping things down.

[@TerenceKaplan]

This is the best way. Use what you got, use your money for beer and gas :)

[@airadaimagery692]

You can pick up a dry duffel bag fairly cheap from Academy sports.

[@marianam8643]

My hubby and I will do the same, apart from the tent. We got a 2p specifically for the motorcycle. With the 2 of us, I see no point. We can carry everything we use for regular camping.

[@kjaubrey4816]

Just get out there and enjoy it. When I used to go get lost on my street bike I had a backpack and a Vietnam style jungle hammock made of olive drab canvas with a tent roof and mosquito net built in.

[@SuperSuperdude88]

i LOVE the excite bike intro/outro! so many memories

[@advredbikes]

Thank you Ben for the great advice!

[@mullins6429]

Thanks for the video. I think that giant loop water carrier is now on my shopping list. 👍

[@blubbertalk]

Giant loop cactus is by far my favorite piece of gear. I turned my nose up at it until using one and immediately bought 2 when i got home. So handy and convenient, i bring one with me when i go backpacking!

[@himwo.]

I'd love to see you go for the lower end entry level camping gear, some affordable options for sleeping bags/quilt that aren't quite... Big Agnes price level. Half at most, quarter at least, that'd be great. Thanks for considering!

[@Motortexan]

Great List. I love my Enlightened quilt.. HAPPY THANKSGIVING

[@wonderingBadger]

Nice review, thanks Ben!

[@chuckwick1606]

Thank you. I find your video's entertaining and informative!

[@MattSieber]

Great review. Two (Three) of my absolute faves, the Cactus Canteen and the MSR Jacket and Pants. Spot on they are worth every penny. 👌👌👌👌👌

[@MotoOffroadAdventures]

Great video buddy. As a long distance backpacker before getting into adventure biking you nailed it with the quilt, and the enlightened equipment and Hammock Gear are the best. Standard sleeping bags take up more space and all of that is wasted when you sleep on top of it.

[@usagundog]

This summer I used a fitted sheet that perfectly fit the Boundary Deluxe w/ a small down quilt. I think the sheet was around $70. Very well made, it should last for years.

[@stevek4449]

As a long haul trucker I have used the i67 gps Garmin InReach when I had an equipment breakdown without cell signal. Worthwhile unit.

[@buk_wheat]

I've been very impressed with my sea to summit 6 liter water bag. I've done the trans america trail and socal BDR with it along with many weekend trips. I've had it for 3 years with no issues sitting in a side bag on my bike .👍

[@ericredpath3908]

Thanks Ben, I always look forward to seeing this episode!... Chewbacca song, not so much 😊

[@ISPhotographic]

I’ve got probably 100k miles across 4 motorcycles in ten years with the same MSR Dromedary bag for water transport. It has been stand alone (not inside any other container) on the bike for every one of those miles. Bombproof and can be found at any REI for about $50.

[@ducfan9546]

Just my experience, but I bought a dromedary direct from MSR and it had a pinhole leak on day 1. When I reported it to MSR and asked for a replacement they didn’t have any… I checked back regularly for a couple months and eventually gave up…

[@rjeepster8640]

The bug out is the best! I have the regular and two mini’s . Worth every penny

[@magicworldbyjorg]

...cool video keep up the great content.. Thank you…

[@JL-th3qh]

awesome, thanks for making spend MORE money this holiday season...

[@kevinsterner9490]

Good video. My Kelty tent has served me well for over 8 years. Also have the MSR jacket based on your recommendation

[@DorkintheRoad]

I hope it's working well for you!

[@justmyself1000]

Just bought the Cactus canteen 2 gallon. Been thinking about it….and you pushed me over the fence! Going to get the Armadillo bag for fuel pretty soon.

[@garygardner9677]

Welcome to the dark side(quilts) Next you'll have to look at a high quality hammock like WarBonnet. They aren't cheap but you sleep on a diagonal, which allows you to side/belly sleep.😉 And yes I much prefer a hammock to a tent. Btw they pack smaller than a tent. The only drawback is you do need trees at your campsite.

[@adventuristnw2321]

Thanks for the honest non-paid review internet riding buddy!

[@myronhorvathsk]

Good review Ben. What would be nice with those little pumps is if they would reverse to vacuum air back out to make it easier to pack up small again. I’m going to get the MSR jacket for this riding season. Even with the 38% exchange rate right now it’s still far cheaper than the Badlands Pro I was going to get before hearing everything you’ve had to say about it. I want waterproof and windproof in one layer.

[@kencarse3677]

I normally ignore camping gear vids either I don’t agree with what they have picked ( too bulky or low quality or unnecessary) or it’s like one giant add. I loved your vid and that you had clearly used the gear on more than one night in your back yard. We use our hiking gear so light weight durable and $ but as we generally go 2 up space is a premium. My partner has also swapped to a quilt and raves about it. Thanks for this great no-nonsense vid. I have a 1/2 litre flask if you want to get serious?

[@CoolHandLee33]

I had a street bike 20yrs ago, but have been thinking of buying a duel sport for quite some time now. Picking up a new Honda 300L this Friday. I’ve really relied on you for advice on bikes, gear and riding tips leading up to this purchase. Just want to say thanks for “inspiring confidence” in subs like me.

[@DorkintheRoad]

That's awesome! I'm really loving my 300 and I'm sure you will too.

[@tennyis28]

Naturehike makes an all aluminum fitting chair as well for 1/4 price. Been using it for a couple of years with no issue

[@High_Desert_Tanner]

My sleeping system is a XL Zenbivy combined with a XL Klymaloft pad. Nearly as good as my $5k mattress at home.

[@maximus518774]

Giant Loop makes great stuff. I’m bias I love them.

[@escapeorion3741]

Starting by ordering the canteen now, but I’m just getting started into this motorcycle camping. I have no clue how these coffee contraptions work maybe this is an idea for your channel

[@DorkintheRoad]

My favorite motorcycle camping gear of 2023 (affiliate links where possible): MotoCamp Nerd Flask ($24): motocampnerd.com/products/moto-camp-nerd-highline-flask?ref=dork Exped Widget Pump ($50): motocampnerd.com/products/exped-widget-pump/?ref=dork Giant Loop Cactus Canteen ($99 for one gallon): www.giantloopmoto.com/product/cactus-canteen-preorder/?ref=dork Big Agnes Mica Basin Camp Chair ($150): motocampnerd.com/products/big-agnes-mica-basin-camp-chair-xl/?ref=dork Benchmade Bugout folding knife ($190): www.benchmade.com/collections/everyday-carry/products/535bk-2-bugout? Kelty Far Out 2 Tent ($200): motocampnerd.com/products/kellty-far-out-2-tent-w-footprint/?ref=dork Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated ($180): motocampnerd.com/products/big-agnes-boundary-deluxe-insulated?ref=dork (same as Q Core Deluxe if you can find one cheap on clearance) (alternate) Big Agnes Divide Insulated ($120): motocampnerd.com/products/big-agnes-divide-insulated/?ref=dork Enlightened Equipment Quilt ($335): motocampnerd.com/products/copy-of-enlightened-equipment-revelation-down-quilt-20-f/?ref=dork Garmin InReach Mini 2 ($400): motocampnerd.com/products/garmin-inreach-mini-2?ref=dork MSR Xplorer Jacket ($420): bit.ly/3ZIPCjg MSR Xplorer Pants ($360): bit.ly/3XnE2IE

[@Roberta_Esposito]

thank you El Dorko

[@JAES1]

The GL cactus canteen has replaced my hard container, highly recommended. The kelty brand has been great although I opted for the 3 person model, 4 seasons so far. shopping for a replacement bag, cant stand the mummy bag any more and its lost its ability to keep yo warm. any informative video, TKZ\;]

[@checkingreality]

While I understand this is not a sponsored video, it would be excellent to know for the viewers if you actually paid for them. Because getting a free product might show bias towards it, the company making it and the company that gave it to you.

[@bethhodge9724]

I’m a female that weighs 207 and I’m 5,5” . My favorite tent is my two person night cat tent I paid $79.98 I’ve used it lots of trips for three years never let me down. I also use a cot with Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad, paired with Teton Sports Leef 0 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag Sage Short. Best sleep ever even when it’s extremely cold out” I don’t like crawling on the ground. I also have flat fold potty that I use is my tent for night stand and to crap in when I need to when I have to pee I use a women’s silicone urinal and just toss the pee. Sometimes I bring small hammock and other times I bring my compact chair but it wasn’t expensive at all but has lasted me for years with 1000’s of use. What I’m trying to say is quality isn’t always so expensive I’d much rather buy a $79.00 inexpensive tent that does the job then to buy one like I had before and paid to much just to have amber to land and burn a large hole in it lol.. oh and by the way I bought an ozark trail 76” pocket knife for $3.96 it cuts everything including a seatbelt when a women flipped her van and I saved her life with that knife just before her seat and front of van engulfed up in flames”. I’ve carried that cheap knife now for three years.

[@vpmassacre4771]

Kelty put tents 50% off right after I bought mine....I think it was Labor Day...

[@alcon1427]

What do you use for the Compression Bag (size) for the Enlightened Equipment Quilt.

[@TerraMagnus]

Those camp chairs scare the hell out of me. I’m about 285 lbs in my birthday suit and all the camp chairs seem so eager to fail.

[@danielhill136]

G,day mate,thanks for all that info,great channel ,great personality,now just to convince the minister of finance to let me spend,thanks heaps for the effort you put .👍🍺🇦🇺

[@DorkintheRoad]

Good luck!

[@MrBeltaine]

Dude, you have an expensive kit. Beautiful & functional stuff. My stuff? I get by on my couple three motocamping trips per year. My mates, although packed & ready to go, know better than to attempt communication before I've had some coffee & cigarettes. 71 year old bones need a jump start in the morning

[@fairwind8222]

The MSR gear I have is absolutely amazing, but the back order on the jacket is absolutely killing me!

[@mtw56or]

they made a great camping stove the dragonfly

[@fairwind8222]

@@mtw56or I have a dragonfly too. I’ve spent a lot of money on MSR products I think that’s why I’m so frustrated the jacket is back ordered

[@CampingwithRadios_kg6dve]

For those of us "non-drinkers", the moto camp needs flask works great for a little (top off) oil

[@DorkintheRoad]

That's some outside the box thinking. I love it.

[@fairwind8222]

I have cider vinegar in mine for allergy attacks

[@fuzzyballs44]

Costco will have Garmin Inreach Mini's for a SUPER good deal, usually on the late summer time where I live.

[@daskalosBCE]

100K in 2023! Lets go!

[@kcmat77]

Looking for a 1 stop solution that can both inflate an air mattress and the tires on a motorcycle. Any input apreciated!

[@Solderpro_1]

Man i just upgraded my kelty far out 2 to a big agnes copper spur bikepacking 3 tent

[@TheLucaseuropa]

You have and use both sleeping pad and sleeping mattress?

[@Roberta_Esposito]

6/12/24 BA just ran a sale on the Mica Basin✅

[@josephawad3493]

Go Blue!

[@bradh74]

I believe your favorite camping gear is Beer a Big Cigar and some fire wood to keep the Bears away.

[@BradBauer]

i had one of those Exped devices, I bought it during COVID and it lasted two years - with only 3X uses. $50 to toss it into the recycling bin when I went to use it another time made me crabby

[@skiphalbakken6499]

Is giant loop going to be having Black Friday sale on the canteen, asking for a friend. Thanks

[@tallcool1ify]

Holy shit! You must make a lot of money cuz i ain't buying any of that stuff. A back pack with a tarp i cover up with and a fifth of J.D. in its original bottle and im ready to rock and roll!

[@billwiley7216]

Most of these YT channels get many of the products sent for them for free to do the video review and then get to keep the product. The average blue collar worker is not spending the dollars for these sleeping quilts and sleeping pads these guys are promoting in the videos. There are a lot of backpacking gear you tube channels that review more budget gear that offers good merchandise choices and better packability at a fraction of the cost. Check out the outdoor gear review channel one of the best for good honest reviews which includes a lot of more budget oriented gear.

[@WyDave]

Garmin In-Reach Mini is on sale now thru Nov 26th, "Black Friday Sale" for $199 at Cabela's/ Bass Pro Shops!!!

[@hamerplayer1229]

I thought there wasn't a Tracker Packer available for the Garmin Mini 2??

[@cliff1551]

2:41 does thgL cactus canteen clean out easy

[@danboyd6180]

There is something I always bring camping on foot. Have you ever had issues with bear, cat or wolf?

[@1Splat]

Thanks for the vid. Good stuff. I just tried applying your coupon to the GL 2 -gallon Cactus bag but it says "Sorry, this coupon is not applicable to selected products." Is the coupon just for the 1 gallon? I honestly didn't try that yet. :) Thanks.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Maybe it doesn't apply to the reservoirs? You might want to wait for the Black Friday sale anyway...

[@MrRodwatson]

I need to know one thing....does the Giant Loop Cactus bag leave a strong rubber taste in the water? I'm struggling with my MSR water bag....I AM SICK OF TRYING TO GET THAT TASTE OUT OF IT!

[@DorkintheRoad]

No taste at all

[@NunyaBusiness...]

@ 00:45 I see CHEWIE!!!!!!

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

I just want my back to get better so I can ride , period . Don't want to throw in the towel and sell everything so let's see how it goes in another month . Been a month so far and I am getting a little better . No way I can lift my Tenere 700 these days or take any jolts . Man I remember when you had 3800 subs and was riding your CRF250L then later were stoked getting your DRZ400 . Mr. Smith and Mr. Wesson are good to have along for those backwoods adventures just in case .

[@krulidn]

The breath in matress makes it less insulated thing is essentially a big myth. Humid air is more insulative. If you're worried about the moisture making a breating ground for mold, I can only really see this happening if you continue to inflate and deflate in a cold environment in succession without a period of leaving yhe valve open for it to dry. Which isn't really a thing in normal use.

[@clintlemire8741]

What are those shoes in the beginning at 0:41

[@johnnyphoenix1223]

Have you thought about trying those space savers bags I’m not talking about the expensive ones after market ones work but you can vacuum the air out but that’s just another item to carry I’m referring to the ones you can push roll and fold the air out of it could make bigger items a lot smaller like sleeping bags or clothing just an idea haven’t tried that myself just sounds like it would work…. Thanks again for sharing your videos >^..^

[@DorkintheRoad]

I have some lightweight dry bags I use that way from time to time.

[@tiolevine]

Love how you're talking about. Safety and your helmet strap is flopping around in the wind lol

[@squatch2461]

🍻

[@marklaske2911]

what is the hose on your shoulder ?

[@DorkintheRoad]

Hydration pack?

[@rjeepster8640]

I love my x-ped pump!

[@ggs0605]

Can that water carrier be used to carry petro?

[@DorkintheRoad]

No but they make The armadillo bag that does the same thing but for gas

[@cjdaking]

Giant Loop gas bag is 100x better than Rotopax. More capacity and rolls up out of the way when you don't need it

[@DorkintheRoad]

I couldn't agree more.

[@robnewman19]

What’s with wheelbarrow boy? Lol

[@AdvDave00]

What pants are you wearing in this video

[@DorkintheRoad]

a random pair of Costco jeans, I believe.

[@DanielSmith-vp5vn]

Motorcycle camping is pretty individualised. Great advice but i wouldnt carry half of that stuff. Newbies over multiple rides work out what works for you. KZbin guides are just that guides. Get out there and work out what works for you.

[@brentsydlik9947]

#ohshituation

[@camouflage962]

the Exped widget pump is by far the worst useless item I ever wasted my hard earned money on....

[@tightright7561]

You need a trauma kit

[@jamesonpace726]

You work for who? I mean, you can actually hold a job....

[@callmekham8458]

My guy started at $24 and it hurt me.