How to Stay Warm and KISS while Motorcycle Camping

We as motorcycle campers are always looking for that balance in our setups of comfort and pack size and weight. The reality is that comfort is inversely proportional to pack size and weight. Generally speaking, the more comfortable the gear, the larger the pack size and weight, especially colder weather gear. Of course this is all relative to you and your style of camping and riding in specific climates.

That said, camping in the colder weather from fall to spring means it's time to bring layers and bundle up at night. I tend to approach problems from a process improvement point of view, mostly due to my years in manufacturing. The simple solution to the root cause of being cold outside would obviously be to go inside where it's warm, duh. BUT we like to challenge and punish ourselves being outdoors, so the next step is finding the best way to keep warm outside.

I've heard about people taking portable gas heaters into their tents, which screams HUGE SAFETY RISK and I highly advise against this, plus it's way more gear to carry. A customer once mentioned battery powered heated sleeping bag liners, but again, the failure point is keeping batteries charged in an already cold environment, and remembering to charge them. Is your sleep system built to keep you warm without those added accessories? If they fail will you still be warm and avoid hypothermia?

The KISS solution is properly rated gear and clothing. Good base layers, a good insulated pad (R6+), and well rated sleeping bag will treat you a lot better than a heater, or electric sleeping bag liner. We are an advocate for do what works best for you, but we are also educators in helping better your camping experience and build that system that works best for you. Remember to KISS. Whichever your preferred acronym variation is.

Check out our cold weather gear collection for the best bags and pads to keep you warm from fall to spring.

Here at Moto Camp Nerd our goal is to make sure camping is the easy part of your adventure. Quality gear that's easy to use after a long day of riding is key. Feel free to call, email, message us on social, or even come to our store for any questions you may have about building your camping setup. We cater to all riders and all camping types from minimalistic light weight dual sport setups to everything comfortable AND the kitchen sink for big bikes.

Phone: 336-422-7807

Email: info@motocampnerd.com

Store Location
11651 N Main St, Suite S
Archdale NC, 27263

Hours Mon-Fri 10a-2p
(sorry for the limited hours, I still have another job)