Motorcycle Tours in Europe— A Checklist for Foreign Travellers

If you are visiting Europe from a foreign country and looking to participate in popular motorcycle tours like the Blue Knights' Annual General Meeting (AGM) or guided tours across the historic horizons of Ireland and the UK—gear yourself up with this pre-planned checklist. 

This is a tailored plan to cover all the essentials: clothing, riding gear, travel insurance, visa requirements to go on motorcycle tours in Europe, how to organise your money, medical preparedness, and vehicle condition. 

Travel Essentials for Motorcycle Tours in Europe 

For motorcycle tours, it is essential to pack light since you have to ride with your luggage saddled on the vehicle itself. Remember, you will also need to carry the helmet and some tyre repair kit, so keep room for that. Minimise the bulk of clothes. The best way to work this out is by following the weather patterns. If you are going on a motorcycle tour in Europe, research the climate of particular regions and pack accordingly. Below are some ideas: 

Clothes: While you are on the road, it can be challenging to have a change of clothes as you usually do. You must wear proper riding clothes, including moisture or sweat wicking and breathable fabrics that are both comfortable and weather-tolerant at the same time. Having waterproof and windproof jackets and pants is a must to gear up for the rain or cold. 

Footwear: Riding boots are a must. Have comfortable shoe covers that are specifically designed for tourers and long drives. Consider features like protective padding and abrasion resistance for higher safety and support. 

Accessories: Gloves, riding goggles and sunglasses; a headgear or bandana are must-haves and you feel you need them to tackle the road dust. 

Deodorants and personal hygiene:  Shampoo, soap, toothpaste and regular moisture are the basic things you will need. Carry disinfecting wipes and good-quality deodorants to keep yourself fresh on the road. Keep chapsticks for dry lips. 

Tools and Electronics: This is more of a personal preference, but you must have a well-stocked battery backup system for your phones, batteries and other gadgets. Have yourself a motorcycle trip tool kit to fix minor breaking and tearing of different components.

Security gear for bike tours:  Disc locks, cable locks, and GPS tracking devices are some of the essential security equipment you should pack on a motorcycle tour in Europe.

Medical kit: Typical motorcycle tour in Europe, there are many cultural stops midway and many food and drinking experiences that can take a toll on your health. Have a medical kit to address minor cuts, bruises, aches, pains, fatigue and upset stomach.  

Managing Your Money on a Motorcycle Tour in Europe 

Nowadays, most European countries accept Google Pay, PayXpert and TerraPay payments. So it makes sense to not carry bulk cash. Keep a moderate amount with you in case there are network issues with using digital payment systems. It is a good idea 

Visa and Other Documents You Need to Go on a Motorcycle Tour in Europe 

Below are some of the essential documents you need to make sure of a compliant and permitted ride across town and cross-border itineraries on your motorcycle tour in Europe. It makes all the sense to plan your trip with a tour agency while planning your journey. At this stage, you can streamline all the visa requirements for the destinations you visit. 

Passport: the best practice is to have several months of validity available in your passport, counting from your entry date in Europe.

Visa: A Schengen visa might suffice for all non-EU tourists for up to 180 days. EU citizens are visa-exempt. 

International Driving Permit (IDP): This is more important for non-EU tourists going on a motorcycle tour in Europe to ride legally within the EU. 

Insurance:  Medical insurance, personal travel insurance and bike insurance are the main protections you need. Some travel agencies recommend having Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) in place to save for any liabilities you have during your trip. 

Preparing for a European Motorcycle Trip— Medical Fitness, Vehicle Condition and Traveler Compliances 

It is not mandatory to carry a fit-to-travel certificate or have medical checks before going on a motorcycle tour in Europe. Having them, however, can come in handy if you feel sick on the road and want to claim insurance.  

Finally, have a prior inspection of your motorcycle to ensure it is in the best condition and serviced. Research any particular EU-specific requirements on emission standards and national road regulations. Carry vital documents such as your passport, driver's license, and international insurance card. By taking these preparatory steps, you set yourself up for a safer, smoother journey across Europe.