13 Handy Things to Pack in your Motorbike Saddlebags or Panniers

Whether you’re riding to work or touring the country, it’s important to have the right supplies for any situation. Your saddlebags are a great place to store emergency items, from a first aid kit to a spare key. Here’s a handy list to check off before your journey.

• Maps. This could be a fold out map or a list of directions- whatever you need to get where you’re going.
  
  
• Travel first aid kit. This will need to include bandages, plasters and disinfectant wipes. You might want to include a note with emergency numbers on it in here.
  
  
• Phone. Ensure it’s fully charged before you set off!
  
  
• Wallet. Ensure it contains your card, cash and license.
  
  
• Waterproof gloves. If your riding gloves aren’t waterproof, it’s good to have a spare pair that are. They’re essential for riding in heavy rain, especially if you don't have handlebar heaters.
  
  
• Lightweight motorcycle cover. Make sure you know how to store it to save yourself messing about later.
  
  
• Water bottle. Make sure it’s durable and doesn’t leak when shaken.
  
  
• Toolkit. A small set of tools for your bike can be a godsend when trouble strikes on the road. Biker’s Choice on Amazon offer a great set.
  
  
• Microfiber cleaning cloths. Use these for dusting your bike and windscreen- even, in a pinch, for cleaning yourself! Microfiber cloths are quick drying, too.
  
  
• Lightweight rain coat and bag to fold it in to. You should have a waterproof jacket on anyway, but this second layer can be useful for extra protection. Don’t buy the cheapest one you see, as it probably won’t keep the water off you. You get what you pay for!
  
  
• Medication. Any prescription drugs you take should be packed towards the top of your bags in case of an emergency.
  
  
• A lock suitable for your model. To just go and buy any bike, even one that's alarmed, and start thinking that it's safe from thieves is ludicrous. Any money you spend on keeping your motorbike safe will be money well spent.
  
  
• Spare key. One of the most important, and most often overlooked, items! Just make sure it’s not in an obvious place- in fact, keep it well hidden at the bottom of your bag, maybe inside a pair of spare socks. You may need it in a pinch and struggle to get to it, but if you’re struggling, so will any potential thieves!

I’ve not included the obvious in this list- your gear! Make sure you don’t forget your suit, boots and helmet, which are really the most vital items. They’re also the one’s you should throw more money at- good quality biking gear could save your life.
And if you’re looking for panniers, go to Get Geared.co.uk- they stock all kinds of luggage, and you’re bound to find the perfect product.

If I’ve missed something off this list, or you have a tip, please tell us in the comments!