East to West Coast Road Trip | Motorcycle Camping in the UK

[@vladmichael4128]

I never thought that 11 minutes will go so fast. What a great adventure! 😄

[@Moon-magic109]

Same…😮

[@clarson2916]

The wingman of the road is a very aesthetically pleasing camping set up for a motorcycle. I started motorbike camping with a similar setup. But, after a few trips I switched to a compact lightweight backpacking style of tent. The 2 person backpacking style of tent gives me additional room for my gear, and additional headroom so I can easily sit upright inside the tent. After about 5-10 nights camping with the new tent, I was able to work out everything else. I am now very comfortable camping. I also carry a lightweight compact chair. Visiting with nearby campers, having evening cocktails, or morning coffee, is much more enjoyable with the chair :)

[@gilesfarmer5953]

Agreed. The Wingman is basically an Aussie style swag, which are great if you have a Ute or 4x4, because they are very heavy and cumbersome for the amount of space and protection they have to offer. Like you, I'd prefer a high quality lightweight tent, a sleeping mat and a down sleeping bag that compresses to almost nothing, all of which weighs about and takes up a quarter of the size of a wingman. I also wouldn't like to be sleeping so close to the bike, you know, if the sidestand sinks into the ground on a wet night causing the bike to tip over.

[@clarson2916]

@@gilesfarmer5953 it is interesting watching Freddie Dobbs work out how best to motorbike camp. In addition, to the packed size and weight of the wingman, there is a lot to be said for being able to sit up straight inside the tent.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Fascinating thread- thank you all for the input. I have been thinking about trying a camping style tent for the extra room it provides, but I was unsure how much extra hassle it’d be packing/unpacking. This is very interesting to read!🙌🏻🙂

[@gilesfarmer5953]

@@FreddieDobbs Hi Freddie. Vango and others do some very nice lightweight tents for a decent price. They usually have an inner tent and a flysheet which once set up initially, can be permanently kept together, so no faffing about later, just thread the flexible poles through the sleeves and peg it down. With some, like a semi geodesic, you don't even need to peg it down unless the weather is really shite. Worth while having a look here on KZbin for reviews of the Vango range (I have a Vango Mirage 200 which is a 2 person tent, but really better for one as you get a load more room). Very much worth it for the extra space, and you don't have to detach it from the bike should you go for a spin. Don't bother with any department store tents. Too flimsy, and collapse at the slightest fart. Also worth looking into a down sleeping bag, very warm, and compresses to almost nothing.

[@richardvillar340]

@@FreddieDobbs You'd love a "free standing" style backpacker tent Freddie. Set it up in literally a minute, two minutes if you use the groundcover. Mine weighs about four pounds. I can fit my sleeping bag (backpacker style), two man tent (in case the Mrs. wants to come), sleeping pad, pillow, micro towel, and a whole bunch of other stuff in one large drybag. Roc Straps are the business!

[@freemenofengland2880]

Back when I started biking aged 16 I owned Goldtop boots and my mate owned a Belstaff waxed jacket for his moped. Not much more than pocket money prices at the time. Now everything is so-o expensive! Especially Belstaff.

[@benitopussolini544]

that's because there's a lot of "Freddie's"out there these days.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Ahhhhhh I know- I can’t argue with this at all

[@stevieaki4003]

Great video again. I'm camping on a little tour of France with my T120 this week. I'm using a 3 person tent...I'm on a motorbike not a bicycle! My revelation (epiphany to quote Freddie), is the Trekology blow up mattress and pillow but, mostly, the little usb battery powered pump which is great for multi destination camping. I think it's called Flextail. A luxury maybe but no more huffing and puffing every night

[@geebee6737]

Isle of Portland such a beautiful place when the weather is good. The viewing point at the Olympic rings has to be one of England's most stunning views and a walk along Chesil beach a must as it's 5,000 years old , 18 miles long and considered Europe's finest barrier beach.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Oh wow!! I’ll be returning

[@saintsaens21]

Road trips are the best - the comfort is often lacking but the sense of adventure is unrivaled.

[@SMSBJM1981]

Another low cost option is YHA hostels. Cheap, bed is comfortable enough, serve breakfast and dinner, and drinks. Clean enough. You meet people. And if you choose one near an area of outdoor activity as opposed to the city you avoid most yahoos. Plus, you don't need as much gear. Did a trip in Wales this week. £64 for three nights at two different locations. Just one bit, bring ear plugs.

[@jasonadams5187]

Awesome video and awesome content can’t wait for the next video Thank’s Freddie and Monika

[@palstuart6891]

Just wot l needed for a cloudy Sunday morning . Also good to be reminded of why l got into motorcycles. Triumph bonneville 💯💙👀🌍

[@AnotherHipster]

excellent video freddie, that petrol station you stopped at is where I ran out of petrol on my triumph street twin. I came to a full stop about 2 miles away from the slip road on the hard shoulder, gave the bike a little shake trying to slosh any petrol around, I rode another 1.5miles. 0.5 miles it stopped I had the slip road in my sights. One final slosh and it got me to the car park entrance so I just pushed it across. Had mcdonald's, pushed it to the petrol station 🤣

[@eddyhoughton6542]

Mate, you have to be the only person I know who goes on a biking / camping trip wearing a collared shirt. Very dapper! (Oh, and the Bellstaff jacket... you're right. £500 is taking the p1ss... They used to be the cheap alternative to a proper leather. Who in their right mind made them a fashion accessory?) PS, £10 is a steal for the campsite. They tried ripping me off for double that in Segovia a couple of years ago after advertising it for €7. The receptionist said "7 for you, 7 for your daughter and 7 for the tent". I told her politely to forget it and rode on a few more km to stay in a proper hostel.

[@MaxBrauns]

Love your solo camping trips! keep em coming!

[@Stu_wolf]

Great inspiring video! Surely this is every bikers dream

[@frederickacerra7766]

What a great Idea on the farm owners part . That would be so popular in the States because you would not get a campsite with all the amenities for that money anywhere that i know of . But like everything here there has to be a ton of laws that will prevent you from doing it . Great Vlog cheers

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thanks Frederick! We’re also going that way here in the UK, so i was delighted by how free and easy this camping experience was. Just park anywhere and do as you wish🙂👌🏻

[@SteveChippyPaine]

I've photographed my bike there, in that layby in the shadow of Orwell bridge.

[@grahambarber2766]

I'm such a skinflint that I still use issued military kit: bivvy bag, tarp/basha lean to bungied to the bike etc but a cheap Asda £10 single skin tent also does the job and takes up no room at all. I agree about the economy of camping, more money for fuel and coffee stops 👍

[@sherlockholmes174]

03:20 when he saw a fellow biker🤩

[@timvanbaelen9738]

Falling a sleep when riding the bike, thank God I'm not the only one ... I even do it with an open face helmet 😊. Glad you stopped in time for coffee and made it safe to the campsite. Great video, looking forward to see the rest of the trip.

[@tman5634]

Always enjoy your trips Freddie, 😉 Say hi to your mum & dad from your subscribers 😀

[@dylanrichards9984]

Great video, looking forward to the next episode 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@ROUTEPLANNERPAUL]

Brilliant Freddie 👏... living the dream

[@AlexOnABoat]

I'm listening to the rain hammering off the roof of our boat in West London thinking I hope Freddie isn't camping in this.

[@FreddieDobbs]

I did get caught!🌧 A boat in West London sounds very very nice👌🏻

[@AlexOnABoat]

@@FreddieDobbs it's lovely although everytime you show us the Orwell I think to myself Ipswich could be a nice place to moor up.

[@adunford2664]

Great to back to basics, just enjoy the journey

[@stevesanelli90]

10 pound passion! Great stuff Freddie! Doing it in style of a nomad.👌

[@ewan53]

Brilliant Freddie. I can't wait for the next episode. Love your camping trips 😊

[@mikek882]

From one stunning part of England to another.

[@robenglish5016]

Great to see your long ride outs Freddie - really inspiring me to upgrade my commuter and plan my own one next year

[@FreddieDobbs]

Really glad you enjoyed it Rob!🙂

[@markrich6878]

Started watching on a whim… now……. I’m hooked. Keep it up!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thanks Mark!

[@SQTierHog]

Thanks, Mr Dobbs!

[@hypojames]

Good stuff. These are the kind of videos I'm subscribed for. Your Spanish trip was hardcore

[@mantarayal]

Heya Freddie....a million years ago...ok 1983..on my OE (kiwi)..bought my Moto Guzzi VII 50..never heard of them but got one..and took off on my own across Europe with no plan. However, what I had was free camping experience in kiwiland which is all fun and wonderful...until it isn't. So I had my wee tent and just found campgrounds. In France, in Switzerland, in Italy, in Greece...they had loos and showers and were cheap as bro. And you meet people too. Especially bikers.

[@SuperDannyboy1974]

Great video Freddie, i love your UK adventures !! We are just back from Cornwall having been on holiday for a week, i always miss it so much when we get back it is such a special place! All the best Dan 👌👌👍👍😀😀

[@davejohnson2051]

Another fantastic video Freddy

[@stuartosborn4785]

I really like watching your videos that include a bit of bike camping because it just reinforces my view that it looks so unappealing 😀......but I do admire you for giving it a go AND for riding that distance with no screen . It's all good viewing 👍

[@BlackThor15]

Awesome video Freddie, well done, thanks for sharing!! 👍👍

[@elund408]

the secret to camping is a good nights sleep, which starts with a good air mattress and a pillow, check out the back packing stores for good light ones.

[@stewy62]

Back in the day I camped on tour but it’s a lot of crap to lug around especially if you take enough stuff to boil a kettle and do a fry up for breakfast. I’m sure camping gear is much better designed now but my creaking bones need the comfort of a proper bed these days! 🇬🇧😁

[@FreddieDobbs]

Haha yep I don’t blame you at all!😆 I’ve been considering trying a mini bbq too, but I do agree- it adds an extra level of hassle. I’m curious to give it a try!

[@michaelhutton3642]

I've only started this overnight camping lark this year. Great fun! I've found that thr £10 ones, while a bit basic, have fewer kids running around. Great video as usual 👌

[@6060don]

Freddie you should come to Canada and do some wild camping. A few years ago when I was younger some friends joined me and we rode XL 250 Honda's to the Yukon territory. Later on my wife and I rode the Dempster Hwy. to the North West Territories above the Arctic Circle. There is more wild life up there than people. The camping is great and its free. I should add that the north is a long long way from the south. The Alaska Hwy. which was built during WWII is one of two ways to get into the north. It's mostly paved but sections can be torn up for miles and be a little sketchy to pass. Your Triumph might not like it. My wife and I rode a KLR 650 Kawasaki ADV bike. You don't get them over there in Europe but because in Canada only 25% of the roads are paved ADV bikes are common here. The KLR's are one tough bike as we shipped it to Europe and rode there for three months. An awesome trip. Great video. Enjoyed seeing it.

[@CharlesDaleActor]

Enjoyable as always. I’ve got a wingman and I love it. I’ve made a couple of modifications which you might find useful. I found I didn’t like the way my bike blocked the view so I’ve added two ultra lightweight poles and guys to support the flap and now I can sit in the evenings and watch the world go by., also makes access easier. Also I ditched the combined bed roll and bag for an air mat and better quality bag (keeps me warmer, much more comfortable and rolls up smaller. Keep up the good work and let me know if you want to try the electric Super Socos at any point. Regards, Charlie.

[@martinwalker3929]

tip Freddy if your getting to the point of falling asleep quick espresso and Nap for 10 to 20 minutes by the time you wake, the coffee kicks in and your ready to go.

[@british_ita.brit1]

Great as ever......I have the wingman Toucan....just gives you that extra bit of space.....a Little tip....go out and buy yourself a roll of 2cm thick 25 density foam and added it to the one in the wingman makes all the difference 😉😉😉😉

[@FreddieDobbs]

Ahhhhh I like this- thank you for the tip, Jamie🙌🏻

[@chrissteer9215]

Just found channel by a whim great enjoyed it 👌

[@willelm88]

Well done, Freddie! I see you've really learnt the lessons of your last camping (mis)adventure, and that's always what counts most. Safe trip tomorrow!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thanks Willelm!🙌🏻

[@geriatricmotorcars9516]

Like your style Freddie

[@IrishBog]

I saw the Jag coming up behind at 6:20 and instinctively said “hey Freddie …look behind you !”

[@aidens04]

I have that same jacket. Love it. Definitely a jacket for life as you say

[@FreddieDobbs]

Isn’t it!🙂👌🏻

[@mennace1000]

blimey ! I live on Portland and never knew there was a camp site there ? I need to get out more . Welcome to our lovely Island ...

[@jannerfox9292]

Looks lovely Freddie, I hope you find the love of camping.

[@stevieclee3309]

Nice one Fred!…..🏍⭐️🏍⭐️🏍

[@Chunkychops514]

All my old mates lived on Portland . HMP😁 safe journey Fred !

[@allsearpw3829]

Hi enjoy your trip to Cornwall , your making head way . Ride safe .😉

[@dave_corney]

Falmouth is 5 miles from me feel free to pop in for a coffee and a ride on my BMW Scrambler.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thank you Dave!🙂

[@mikethebikemt07tracer]

I have never even felt like falling asleep on my motorcycle but I have witnessed that actually happen to one of my mates. We were touring Southern Ireland in the south west corner on a hot day. He just went straight on with no attempt to turn when there was a bend in the road. Luckily he was only quite badly bruised but his Sprint ST was written off. Plenty of coffee Freddie to keep alert is the answer. Best wishes from Devon. Ride safe.

[@inverlane1939]

Great video Freddie and good luck with the camping, Your intro near the Orwell Bridge makes me homesick and I used to sail on the down Orwell and then up the River Stour to Rabness. It is a beautiful part of the world 😊👍

[@inverlane1939]

@Lookup2Wakeup We also moored at Wolverstone 👍

[@FreddieDobbs]

So glad you enjoyed it David. The Orwell, and the road running along it, is stunning and still feels very unspoilt🙂👌🏻

[@inverlane1939]

@@FreddieDobbs It is a stunning part of the world, albeit I can’t complain as I now live in the Cotswolds. Have a safe tour down to Cornwall 😊👍

[@BlakesPipes]

I have fallen asleep two different times, on one of them, I fell asleep 3 times. So total of four. My ex father inlaw saw me leave the road the three times thinking that was the end of me. NOPE, I came back to his right mirror and then back to his left mirror for another 60 miles and off I would go to his right mirror and off the road and back I would come. It is the funniest story he would tell when he was alive. Good times

[@biker_dale]

Off camping in the lakes in a week or so, just packing a tent and bag, clothing tends to be what I'm wearing. I just love getting on my bike and going anywhere really. The great thing about bikes as well as tents is you can always fit in somewhere. Safe travels 👍

[@hectorshouse7348]

Would love to see more camping with a motorcycle. Awesome content…thank you.

[@mr.solitude3352]

👍😎👍 Wingman's Toucan tent is larger for us tall riders. I would also replace the super thin mattress/sleeping bag that comes with the tent with an air mattress and better quality sleeping bag for colder climes.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Great tips- thank you sir!🙂🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@docholliday2364]

Really great video Freddie. Ride safe and stay awake :))

[@timparkhouse9925]

That campsite looks great! Really nice and chill like some I remember from my hitch-hiking through France a few years ago. Totally agree that a tenner makes that a better proposition than wild camping altho a bit less of an adventure. Thanks Freddie for the free inspiration x

[@ChancellorBeeHaw]

love the moto vlogs! stay safe out there please, remember to lock your gear up and secure everything. no more stolen laptops.

[@stephennewell6628]

Good to see the Goose out again! Used mine at Adventure bike festival, bought because of your previous trip with ponies!

[@strider112575]

I've done the nod on the bike. Gotta pull over and find some place to recharge immediately. I thought the adrenaline would keep me awake but sometimes that exhaustion kicks in... Glad you took a break when you did.

[@FreddieDobbs]

So true- I probably rode for 30 miles like that, and it was getting ridiculous by the end!

[@strider112575]

Glad you pulled over when you did. 30 miles is a lot.

[@wombat1238marsupial]

To keep the camping experience going when you arrive at your final destination will your parents allow you to pitch the tent in their garden😂😂😂😂. Had a Belstaff wax cotton two piece back in the early 80s and got nearly 20 years out of it before it died, it was second hand when I purchased it.

[@OCCUPIEDNATION]

6:04 Try leaving Monica alone a bit more and getting some sleep. 😂

[@VITORB82]

Will do my 1st camping bike trip on my Meteor 350 in a couple of weeks. Btw decided on the RE Meteor after watching your Canarias video. 👌

[@ipetv1216]

Ride safe and God bless sir Freddie🙏☝️

[@leeandjancruise]

Visited the Isle of Portland only a few weeks ago while staying in Weymouth at a well known branded hotel, you're site looked cleaner than the one we stayed in at £100 per night.

[@camperlustig68]

Good Evening Freddie!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Good evening Julian🙂

[@MatOutdoors]

You are doing a great job, your videos are very interesting. Thanks 🔥❤️‍🔥😎👌

[@stevepest3184]

Brilliant watch

[@debenhamdave4314]

Coincidentally I was along that stretch of road by the Orwell bridge only this week. Also travelled from Suffolk down to the Lizard recently quite a long haul in one go. Enjoy Cornwall.

[@ballaservices9275]

Freddie - would have loved to have seen some of the riding on the A27 - a great road for bikes, mainly for the quality of the road (but the views aren't bad as well). I used to live in East Grinstead and loved riding that road. Can you take some clips of actual ride next time?

[@110adventures7]

Just been watching some of you Tenerife videos for a bit of inspiration. We're off there again in November, Monasterio is definitely on the list. We haven't been since February and didn't really get a chance to explore due to having the outlaws with us.

[@rath6599]

Ear plugs for the noise and some cheap headphones that stick to the inside of your helmet. The ear plugs at least are a godsend. I found it increases my road tolerance quite a bit. Give it a try!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thanks for the tips- I know quite a few bikers who listen to podcasts and things while riding. I’ll try some different options🙂

[@krallonthefloor]

I rode for 12 hours today. I started in West Texas. I’m now in East Texas.

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

Great playlist. 🎥 😊

[@magicworldbyjorg]

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

[@MrJckDoo]

I stayed up there on the hill in a hotel in Castletown. (Stunning views from up there) I used to use the ferry from Waymouth to Cherbourg when it was running, Think they only serve Jersey now. Should us more of a road journey, but of course, Monika is not with you. I was never down in Cornwall.

[@gazoutdoors7525]

I hope you get the bug and start doing more camping, my favourite thing to do on my bike. I got a wingman of the road after seeing you use it.

[@FreddieDobbs]

I now have the bug big time Gaz- I LOVE it and will be doing a lot more😃🏕

[@gazoutdoors7525]

@@FreddieDobbs excellent! I'm not sure if you know, but the wingman guys do tours in Europe for wingman owners, I bet they'd love to have you along to make video you or them should get talking! :)

[@crocksontherocksify]

Evening Freddie, another top Vlog. I live in St Austell. Only a few miles from Falmouth. Watching your video is very inspiring and I feel a camping road trip cld be called for myself. Keep up the good work 👍

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thank you!🙌🏻 I must get back over to Cornwall again soon as it is a stunning part of the country for riding🤩

[@andyaptc2907]

A bit dappy mr Dobbs regarding foot wear.......and more! I find it endears me to your travels.

[@willhaylock3769]

I think I saw you in Marazion on Friday 26th August walking with a couple of friends? Either you or your doppeleganger! - Cornwall is a fab place to visit, even better when the weather is a s good as it has been recently.

[@FreddieDobbs]

That would’ve been me!🙂

[@banzobeans]

Fun one.

[@oblahdes]

Love the fog, but not that great for traveling. Every scene is absorbing. I observe and take in all.

[@volt8684]

Good on u freddie. Air bnb used to be the cheap way of overnighting. Its more expensive than when I used to work in London in 2010. Camping everytime but I like hot shower at my age. Thinking of getting a van and bed and bike garage within

[@jesseonamotorcycle]

Nice Triumph 👍🏼

[@crumblymal8479]

Been there Freddie it´s not fun falling asleep on a bike or any vehicle if your in control of it ,The idea of camping kid of appeals but when it comes to it with the facilities it´s a no thanks 😁. Good one 👍

[@johnmower3509]

looking at getting a wingman tent for the summer camping trips

[@kevinshaffer1047]

another excellent video!...If you didnt grow up camping..the campsites are the way to go..the showers can make all the difference in the world..lol

[@FreddieDobbs]

I didn’t appreciate how much difference a shower and loos could make to the overall camping experience. I’m a convert🙂

[@kevinshaffer1047]

@@FreddieDobbs LOL..its funny the simplest things we take for granted...until they arent there..LOL..

[@archiemillington306]

cocos camping in mid wales is nice and at 10 pound a night is worth a go

[@kevinobrien1259]

Not hard to fall asleep on a bike Freddie, it isn't always sheer tiredness sometime just the mom

[@rmil4531]

Great video…I love the description of the tiredness… it’s exactly how I am too….but in my car. Time to stop.❤️

[@filipb]

Nice jacket, agree on the quality and feel of the bellstaf stuff but isn't it too hot for a hot summer roadtrip? I suffered in my Klim Marrakech this summer ... Have a great ride sounds like a great trip. I have great memories of touring Cornwall, still trying to find back this high tea spot on the Atlantic coast with the most amazing views of the ocean and the moors ...

[@-old-school-motorcyclesltd]

Great video and as said inspiring for us Bikers and great to see you on the long trip Can’t wait for you’re opinion tomorrow Not done camping on my bikes but sounds good to me😊😊 Cheers for that have a cozy night Watch out for the creepy crawlies lol 😂

[@FreddieDobbs]

Really glad you enjoyed it! Luckily the area was insect-free😆

[@-old-school-motorcyclesltd]

@@FreddieDobbs Well done Freddie well impressed And will tune in later after work 😊👍👍

[@jamesdspaderf2883]

Dang... that's an hour and a quarter extra travel. I'd have bought a pair of flip flops for the beach, lol

[@greerbox]

Great vlog as usual Freddie. I understand the cost effectiveness of camping however; after a full days riding you make no mention of any eating/drinking equipment. Yes you could have a meal at a cafe/pub before you arrive but surely you want a tea/coffee before bed and at least a coffee when you wake up before you set off?

[@1mikefrost]

Nice to see and hear a proper Jaguar at 6.30 ! Have a great trip Freddie.

[@mrpipps90]

Bahaha. He was so flustered. I love it.

[@FreddieDobbs]

No finer sight than an E-Type🤩

[@markwilliamson2795]

Your Triumph can do this Freddie ! Get away from so many cars and trucks and camp free... Green Lanes , The Best Dual-sport Motorcycle Trails in England (United Kingdom)