National Rally Packing List?

[ChrisF]

I've got the motorcycle camping checklist ( http://www.micapeak.com/checklists/ ) that I've found helpful as I get back into motorcycle touring.

Now I'm wondering - are there items to add to the list that would be specific to the National Rally? In other words, what would you pack for Lima that you wouldn't normally take to a local rally? Here are my additions so far:
1. More money ;)
2. Even more money :D
3. Camcorder

Speaking of money, is there a preferred type for on-site purchases? I figure cash would be good anywhere, but what about personal checks vs. traveller's checks vs. plastic?

[gsjay]

Being that we'll be camping several nights in one location and that we'll most likely have a small gang from our club I usually pack a Kelty Sunshade Large Canopy!

It's really nice to sit under for shade and really makes a difference if it rains.

Kelty makes the Sunshade in several sizes and you can usually get the best deal on them at www.campmor.com

gsjay

[Rob Nye]

Hey now,

Most if not all the vendors take plastic.

I second Jay's comments on the sunshade, last year I bought a MSR fly and had it shipped to the rally site. It was fantastic.

Speaking of shipping there is no reason why you couldn't pack up any extra items into a hard cooler and ship that to the site if you wanted. This is more for a small group who plans on hooking up at the rally.

I would also suggest you check out our camping (http://www.bmwmoa.org/camping/camping.htm) pages. Last year when we did a site update I had to proof them. I had a ball and learned some stuff all over again. The gear (http://www.bmwmoa.org/camping/gear.htm) pages which is where I learned about the MSR Parawing. In Spokane I put this up over the table instead of the tent.

I also got all warmed up about doing more for dinner than a meal in a bag after reading the page on gourmet cooking (http://www.bmwmoa.org/camping/DonMacNeilCooking.htm) I found a pyromid stove on E-Bay and used it just about every day for the two weeks we were on the road including blueberry pancakes, eggs or french toast for breakfast every day at the national.

Other things you may want to bring would be a couple of nagaline bottles with your favorite spirit, a pair of cheap flip flops (good for the showers) and some glow sticks for your tent, this makes finding your way home with the empty nagaline bottle easier. :)

I also like to pack a couple of shirts a step up from the standard T. I find that places like the beer garden can be hot so I like a lightweight short sleeve button down from Quicksilver or similar. This year a good pair of dancing shoes will also be in order.

See you in Lima! It really is going to be a great rally especially if good fun is what you seek.

Best,

[BradfordBenn]

Okay this one is a little in the weeds, but ear plugs for sleeping. Remember you are going to be sleeping with a few thoughsand of your new best friends. Murphy says that the person next to you will be snoring and will keep you up.

Oh yeah, the Pyromid is really cool after watching Rob cook up some great pancakes.

[SHAG]

About 4 years ago a friend told me about "travel John's". You can get them at Wally or K in the camping section! They are the greatest thing for tent camping especially if it's cold or raining. No more Gator Aid bottles for me :brow

[ChrisF]

Thanks for the replies! Ear plugs have been added to the list.

Rather than the glow sticks, I plan on using an LED headlamp using two white lights or one red (for preserving night vision, supposedly) light.

*SHAG*, glad to hear about the "travel John's." To me, Gatorade always reminded me of recycled beer. :eek ;)

[BradfordBenn]

Looking forward to seeing you there

[Burnszilla]

This may help you get there a little quicker and you won't need the Gatorade bottle: http://www.stadiumpal.com/stadiumpal_what.htm

I've never used one, but I came up with the idea at a String Cheese concert at the Greek Theatre a few years ago. :doh Don't you hate it when someone else actually goes through with your idea?

[Rob Nye]

Thanks for the replies! Ear plugs have been added to the list.

Rather than the glow sticks, I plan on using an LED headlamp using two white lights or one red (for preserving night vision, supposedly) light.

*SHAG*, glad to hear about the "travel John's." To me, Gatorade always reminded me of recycled beer. :eek ;)

Chris,

The glow sticks are for the tent to mark it. ;)

[ChrisF]

Rob - interesting idea with the glow sticks! I have this mental picture of hundreds (if not thousands!) of tents lit up like fireflys. :D Here's an alternative to the green glow:

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?memberId=12500226&productId=32174421

Even if I don't use the idea, it's reminded me of another reason to bring my GPS unit. :D

[Visian]

Okay this one is a little in the weeds, but ear plugs for sleeping. Remember you are going to be sleeping with a few thoughsand of your new best friends. Murphy says that the person next to you will be snoring and will keep you up.


Oh... and don't forget about all the loud farts in the morning. Those are particularly special! :D

:fart

Ian

[gsjay]

Ear plugs are also nice to help drown out the K-bike that some A-hole 2 rows over decided needed warmed up at 7:00 A.M. :dunno

gsjay

[BradfordBenn]

Chris,

The glow sticks are for the tent to mark it. ;)

I have been marking stuff the wrong way for how long!?
:stick

[smilingcouple]

Ear plugs are also nice to help drown out the K-bike that some A-hole 2 rows over decided needed warmed up at 7:00 A.M. :dunno

gsjay

K bike riders just have to stay warm. Starbucks canned coffies really warm up nice on a K bike engine.
Murf:bow