"Maybe you should take more time..." is a dumb comment. Of course, you would enjoy it more but who has enough time? Time is the biggest limiting factor for most people, having jobs, families, commitments, etc... will always take to back home sooner than you want. Not going places because you don't have enough time will only keep you from going places. Sometimes it sucks, you don't want to put in back to back 800mi days but sometimes it's the only way to make the trip work and it makes a better story than staying home. I thoroughly enjoy your videos, they are great to watch when I'm in between getting out and doing the things.
Ditto, Eric. Also, "time" for people is relative. I may be able to get all I "need" from a spot in 10 minutes, but some people will want to take it in for an hour.
You are awesome. Free spirits fly high through whatever faces them.. you are a genuine free spirit and your vids will have a positive effect on so many people for years to come. Thank you from ENGLAND U.K
Lessons I've learned - leave earlier. Everything takes longer than you think it will, don't push that time into the evening. On trips I'm moving by 7-8am, and try to be done by 3 or 4. Then, know when to stop (weather, tired, etc.). If it's pouring rain at noon, and your weather app says it'll rain all day, then find a hotel and relax. Yeah, it messes with your "schedule" but pushing hard in bad conditions is a recipe for disaster, and that's much worse. "Taking more time" is valid, but you have the time you have - if you can't adjust the days you have, then adjust what you see and do. Plan some down-time in the middle if at all possible - that's the oil change, bike wash, maintenance check day.
Love the video and self reflection, that is exactly why I rely on you and other vloggers to save me making mistakes by having you make them first. My tips are: 1 Leave early and set an end time, mine is 4:00PM 2. Rely (when possible) on the generosity of strangers. On several occasions I arrived at a full campground but was able to set up a tent in a site with an RV simply by asking, I was only denied once. About 50% of the time I ended eating with my hosts. Never underestimate how awesome people are to help 3. Bring more water. Too much many times I was unable to dry camp for lack of water You are awesome and humble, keep up the good work
I too struggle with having to relearn lessons I learned previously. Things like, donning rain gear before it rains, traveling fewer miles per day and to schedule at least one non-riding day a week while on trips, and to depart each day at first light and to finish well before sunset.
End screen crew: When buying food get enough to cover two days in case you're nowhere near a store the next day. If you find a store then buy tomorrows meal and eat the 2nd day's food you already bought, today. Having a fresh rolling food stock can be invaluable if you get caught out, and it means you don't have to carry a ton of food with you (as well as everything else). :).
Great video, yup we all learn lessons on trips. My short trip to RMR gave me a couple lessons: 1) don't over pack food you can buy it when you get there, 2) make sure you aren't going through a city during peak traffic time (Reserve street in Missoula during lunch hour) so as not to get stuck sitting on your hot bike during 90F temps in barely moving traffic, and 3) don't believe everything you think: when my brain goes into hyperdrive with worse case scenarios and other fearmongering I remind myself that I'm well prepared and will take on any difficulty when it actually comes up. I swear sometimes our own worst enemy is our mind itself! Safe travels and look forward to seeing you and all the super cool people this summer at RMR!!
Thanks Sandi!! I'm sure I still overpack food sometimes but I'm getting a lot closer to only taking the things I know I will consume/things that are harder to get my hands on in a random grocery store. Like my favorite energy bars. Stoked to see you at RMR6!! :D Can not wait!
Two things I learned on two trips I did. 1. Waterproof those boots (In NZ we have Dubbin that is great for waterproofing leather) 2. Spare pair of gloves while the others dry out.
GET YOUR RMR 2021 TICKLETS, IT IS NEVER TOO EARLY!!! I have mine and am planning like crazy so I can be ready. End Screen Crew Answer. Some of you may remember that I am a returning rider after a 25 ish year break. This summer after passing my tests and taking my class I proceeded to put 2000 miles on my scooter (2005 Suzuki Boulevard S50) in about a month and a half. My first solo ride taught me my most important lesson, Do not ride outside of your ability. I squeezed outside my line just a tiny bit because I came into the corner too fast and without any clue of when I was going to scrape. Thankfully nothing bad happened but I went back to the parking lot and practidced more, learning how far my scooter will lean and where to keep my eyes. I am happy to report that this lesson did not need to be learned at any other time last sommer....
I'm just back from a 4,425 km (2,750 mile) 15-day trip from my home in Canberra (Australia) to Tasmania (including overnight ferry crossing). The big lessons were: (1) any item of ostensibly waterproof clothing with a zip is ultimately not waterproof in torrential rain at 100 kph (my $800 'waterproof' jacket leaked something shocking and I had to buy non-biking rubber pants and jacket which worked very well); (2) camera gear and drone must be super accessible or else stopping to take shots becomes too much of a chore and doesn't happen; (3) being more patient with stopping to get petrol (compared to being in a car, there's so many actions that must be done in sequence - stop bike, gloves off, glasses off, helmet off, glasses on, tank bag off, petrol in, tank bag back on, unclip camelbak chest strap, zip open outer jacket, zip open inner jacket, remove wallet, pay for petrol, replace wallet, zip up inner jacket, zip up outer jacket, click together camelbak strap, glasses off, helmet on, gloves on, start bike - did I forget anything? Oh hell, I forgot to put my glasses back on ... now where are they?).
End screen: To carry a tire changing mat. Got a flat in the desert. As careful as we were, sand got in the tire causing a friction flat from the grains of sand on my next big ride. Adventure Rider Radio talked about these mats and I was given one for Christmas, which was cool.
Oh man! ughhh I guess you could also use the footprint for your tent (if you're also carrying your camping gear) But I could see how having a nice heavy duty matt would be useful! Thanks Jessica!
Zoom is great for any time you are on the road. I mean there is a reason the 70-200 is the bread and butter for landscape photography. Especially if you aren't right up in tight valleys with big mountains 😉
If I had the bike for traveling long distance I would for sure did what you did I admire you for doing what you did and still had a great time and that is what it is about just enjoying the ride and viewing the magnificent photography that you did
My riding buddies and I have more than once set up camp in the dark. Big pain! So usually doing 10-12 day camping ride we have plan A and plan B for our itinerary. For us it is the journey not the destination and more than not we never make the destination. So about 3PM we look at where we are verses when we wanted to be and then decide where to camp. Now that it looks like plan A is out the door, B goes into effect. Unlike your journey we don't care if we make the finally destination. The three of us have been doing this together for over 30 years and we now live in three different states. Oh and now were are just over 70 yrs old and now motel it but havent given up on the idea for bringing our tents! Love your vlogs!
Hydration was a big one for me. I can dirt bag with the best of them and don't need much and if it breaks or gets loss I work around it. July on the Carolina coast is hot and I spent a fortune as I made my way across South/North Carolina and Virginia back roads. So thirsty
Didn’t travel in 2020, but in 2019, the big lesson: give yourself more than an hour to pack your bags (and don't save that hour until the hour before you need to leave) 😅 Zoom lenses are awesome btw 👏🏻
Thank you for the tips! With all of the videos you've made, similar to these, I feel so much more ready when the time comes for me to hit the road. I feel like I'll hear you in my head. 😆 The lesson I learned from travels in 2020 was always bring more water than you think you'll need.
Thanks man :D haha I have so many voices in my head when I travel it's nice to know I'll be one of the voices in someone else's head XD Water is soo important!!
My bad days almost always boil down to one thing: too many miles. Sometimes I only realize later the cool roads and cool sights I could have seen if I’d only not been in a hurry to cover more miles. (And if you’re one of those riders that judges the quality of the ride by the number of miles, that’s great for you, and have at it. My measuring tape is just different.)
Love post trip analysis! My friend and I did a 5000km trip this year and a 3500km trip last year. We found the same as you - lessons you thought you knew were still being re-learned the next trip. Also, we have a hard time slowing down and taking an extra day or two in some places.. and regretting after the trip was done. Hopefully next season. 😁
Even with your travel experience I think every trip you learn something new about packing or organising the trip or what gear to take, I know I do, I have done a lot of Scotland touring, only live 100 miles from Scottish border but every trip I learn something, love your videos Amanda and stay safe sending biker love from the northeast of England x
No matter how many times I 'learn' lesson number one, I consistently opt for re-learning it. Primes and zooms both have their qualities. I don't feel any apologies are needed. Same with trip planning and miles/day. It's all part of the adventure. The most important thing is that YOU DID it. No one can take that away from you. The lesson I learned in 2020 is to not let other people's change of plans cancel your plans. I had plenty of opportunities to learn it prior to 2020, but I think I actually did learn it now. p.s. The rain fly lesson I only had to learn once. Pitching a tent in a swale is one that I get to re-visit now and again.
A camping item that I now consider indispensable is an artificial chamois. One wipe of a dewy tent fly or motorcycle seat or rear view mirror and they are virtually dry. Wring it out, put it in the zip lock until the next use. Makes starting out much nicer.
Another great Video! East Coast camping can be a challenge. Besides Motorcycle I have also toured extensively by bicycle and more recently motorhome. When I plan I try to line up 3 campgrounds with an hour of where I want to stop for the day. 95% of the time one of the three will have a site for me. One of the cool things about the midwest is many of the small towns have a campground that are free or minimal cost. You usually find these along the old 2 lane US highways. I also use the Allstays paid app for finding camping. In my experience it is the most comprehensive. Happy Year and looking forward to more of your adventures!
Things I’ve learned..... Spending money on a good Helinox chair is worth it. Same for a 4” mattress. Use quality wicking socks and underwear. No bungees! Straps or hybrid Rok straps are best. Less is best. Thanks for the vids!
Definitely second the waterproof point, getting wet can dampen (no pun intended) the experience and In our case changed the whole trip. Biggest lesson we learned is be flexible and it removes the stress allowing you to enjoy yourselves.
I was excited to see another one of your videos and such great tips. Things were going along great right up to the point that you said, make sure to cover your phone with a good case. Of course two days ago I sent my life proof case back, now I will order it back because you’re so right. Thanks Amanda be safe, healthy and have a great 2021
Lol sorry BoDean! But I promise you won't regret having it! Lol just not having it! Thanks also for always being a positive light in my comments! I really appreciate it ☺️
Couldn't agree more about making sure you arrive at the campsite prior to dark... for a different reason thought. From my personal experience you waste a lot of really fine end-of-the-day bourbon when trying to pour it in the dark. You can ponder how I know this of course. Hope you get to feeling better. Wow: end crew got a glimpse of Amanda unchained... tell us how you really feel! :)
Thanks Richard! Oh noooo the bourbon! lol yaa hindsight is 20/20 probably should have left that out. I blame the fact that I've been poorly for like a whole month now. But also because I've gotten sooo freaking many of those types of comments it's getting on my nerves a bit lol
My lesson learned on the road... don't expect clothes to dry overnight when you wash them in the evening and you don't have a good (warm) place to hang them... Get ready to put on some nice wet soggy clothes in the morning 😅 Much love from holland😁
lesson learned: dont camp on land jutting into the middle of a large lake. it was so windy and cold we had to block off the wind with our car so our fire wouldnt go out and and our tent collapsed and was flapping all night.
Great video. What I learned the hard way is create a packing list of all your gear. As you pack it check it off the list. Did this after I forgot to pack my sleeping bag. Slept in my tent with all my riding gear on. Used my dry bag to keep my feet warm 😀😃
Watching you was great because even with everything you always stayed positive. loved watching your journey and plan on doing something like this in the future. anytime your in southeastern Ohio you are welcome to stay at my place.
Great lessons!! I am very interested in a waterproof phone case/holder! The lesson I learned on my last trip is that although I love to travel on my bike, I really miss my dogs and 3 weeks is a long time away from home, and for them too. I think they were a little traumatized. Naa, they’re resilient pups. Haha. I do think 2 weeks is max for future trips though. Lessons from the past - always carry an extra key fob battery.
My most important lesson... Water. I'm from the southwest. And Loctite. Really late night to camp due to no Loctite. We got it fixed. Thanks to Ziptie. But it was late!
Glad I found your channel! Thank you! Planning a cross country trip this year, this is the inspiration I need to get through this last bit of cold weather and cabin fever lol
My most memorable lesson learned is 'never pass gas'. A nugget from aviation! Once you've pushed a laden bike a few hundred yards up a slight incline that felt flat before you chugged to a stop, this lesson is tattooed on the brain. So what if your machine is supposed to do 200 miles plus between fill ups? Does NOT pay to test this 😩
A 28-300mm pretty much lives on my D800 for just that reason. I have a few other lenses, particularly a 50mm, but you just can't beat the ready versatility of a good zoom range. LED string lights were one I found as well. I had a different set but I may see about those ones as they look far better. So very much agreed on the rainfly advice. I was glad that I did it each time.
@@AstheMagpieFlies if the pandemic hadn't happened my plans were to buy a fancier one by now - a faster one for when I did photos at the H Town Kings drag shows (yes, I know that's firmly in the "sentences only I would say" category!)
I find if you're on a tight schedule. "stop discipline" can often be an area where you bleed time. quick lunch, vs a long meandering one. being aimless about where you're stopping (looking for the perfect local spot vs some shitty fast food)... when you set the alarm for 7, but don't get up until closer to 9 and don't head out/break down camp until 11. on a short trip maybe not a big deal, but half an hour, or an hour, each day, over a longer period. can really add up.
I underestimated the need for luggage, I flew across the country to Florida, bought my bike and rode back half way across country to ColoRADo in the first week of April.... all I had for luggage was a hiking backpack, needless to say my back was killing me and I had very minimal gear besides gloves and a helmet.. and really I needed proper gear too! I nearly froze going over Vail Pass... with snow on the ground of course.
The biggest thing I've learned about motorcycle touring, in general, is that everything will take longer than you plan it to. I know you know this. I'm not going to criticize how much distance you tried to cover in how little time. You succeeded, right? That's all that matters! But yeah, someday I need to return to Cape Breton, NS, to see all the stuff I wish I'd had time to see the last time I rode a motorcycle there.
Same. I started comparing my estimates with actual times, as it was getting frustrating not meeting my own goals for destinations. Turns out all those little stops I like to do add another 20-25% more time for me. Since I started taking that into account when planning each day's trip it's gotten a lot better, including eating in the light! Not to say there aren't still days when I push into the dark but I feel better about knowingly choosing those.
Happy New Year and thanks for all your great videos! I retired my big cameras and use a Canon Elf that I put on before my helmet. Takes great images and videos without the bulk. Been carrying a small roll of blue painters tape to put a strip at the top of the visor to block early and late afternoon sun.
Well my last trip back in 1980 I learned I was Then Came Bronson! Lol. Just like the show I met people all along the way. The last of which were 2 people from Switzerland and 2 from New Zealand at a camp ground in New Orleans. It's just about time for a new one this year. And I worry about you riding at night. Thanks Mark
Great tips, my friend! End screen: Biggest lesson I learned on my last big trip (not 2020) was my waterproof rain gear is only rain resistant, and that after 3-4 hours in an 18 hour ride/downpour, you just don't care (and to make sure my phone is locked in the tail box, which IS waterproof, LOL) Happy Not-2020/New Year! 😁✌
OMG, most important thing I learned this year on a 2,100 km trip in 7 days.... The standard seat on a 2020 Africa Twin feels like your sitting on cold concrete after several hours which is then multiplied day after day after day.... I've now got an AirHawk air bladder seat cover thing which hopefully will make it bearable on my next big trip which is coming up very, very soon... (but I'll find out about whether or not the seat is more comfy next week when I go out MotoCamping - stay tuned for the video). Keep at it :-D
My 2020 first adventure trip, soft luggage mistake. People recommend since it is easier to take with you. However, I quickly learn that I can't leave the bike unattended (like go inside a store) for too long. There is no safety lock. I am converting to a removable and lockable hard luggage now. I only use a rear luggage since I do not camp.
Thanks so much Scott! 😊 I always appreciate seeing your name in the comments section! Unfortunately still not feeling too great, but I'm hanging in there lol could always be worse.
Happy new year to you and your supportive family, Amanda. Thank you for all of your wonderful sharings in 2020. You're a generous soul. You have the skills to have your own business that involves motorcycling too. Perhaps a motorcycle touring biz? 2021 may be a good time to explore different kinds of challenges. Stay healthy and jubilant in spirit, young lady. It has a positive effect on many of your fans.
Happy New Year! Thank you for watching it!! :) I appreciate that lol but right now there's a lot more legal expenses involved with being a touring biz that are out of the cards for the foreseeable future.
Biggest lesson for me ... choose your travel partners carefully ... it makes a huge difference if you're all on the same page ... I had a trip cut short ... just saying ... choose wisely ... :-)
Didn't get to be out this year much but in the past I always carry ziplock bags in case it rains and the phone and that go in their own bags. Getting wet sucks but replacing electronics sucks more :)
True! but unfortunately can't charge it, can't see it, can't use it while it's in a ziploc. I know lol I've tried that one when I was leading group dirt rides for the dealership! Hence why I got the lifeproof case for the last phone. Since I use my phone as nav in the PNW, it makes it pretty important to be able to at least SEE it even if it is raining.
I will say that twice in the last 12 months or so I did 1,000 mile days. In an effort to make sure I was spending time on the road and not at the rest stops I conservatively at beef jerky and drank water. Gave myself a kidney stone on the last trip in the last 200 miles with the high sodium and low hydration. No matter what, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Water! not tea, coffee, or soda.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with a good zoom or 3. A 16-35, 24-70 and 70-200 will cover just about any situation. I love my primes but sometimes I just want more flexibility. Especially when I'm traveling. Just another tool in the bag.
Stop when you want, if you don't, then regret sets in. I will always wonder what I missed by not stopping to take a look. Being retired, I do not have the time constraints that other people do so I try to make time to see what is out there that is not visible from your route.
And test your waterproofs are actually waterproof before you need them to be waterproof. Oh the memories of a one - piece oversuit that was a tea bag in disguise.. Soggy leathers for 400 miles and you can guess how nice they were the next day too.
Right there with you on the zoom lens thing - might not be the pinnacle of image quality but the face they pack so much versatility into a compact space outweighs that enough for me. Which reminds me, I need a new full frame camera.... Lessons? Take more time, more video and more photos. I always wish I'd got more from any trip. Always my own fault of course!
Wise counsel. No.1 priority on anything I use on my motorbikes is... waterproofing, cos it rains in the UK.... a lot, until it doesn't, like this summer. End Screen Answer: Lesson learned... slow down on motorway (highway) bridges in strong side winds, cos if you don't it scares the sh*t out of you.... Face it Neil, you are not 19 any more. I hope you are soon feeling better Amanda.
Thanks Neil! The battle to keep everything dry is a universal struggle I think! lol or at least for those of us that exist outside Southern California XD
A great off road, waterproof with a 3 year covers everything warranty, yes even cracking the screen check out something called a "SONIM xp8" it is the best smart phone ever you can even use the screen with your gloves on.
Fantastic vid! One lesson I learned is ensuring that my on-bike USB device charger is reliable. The cheap one I purchased off Amazon failed after a few days on the road. Kept the power bank in my tank bag so wasn't too big of an issue. Thanks for all the great info!
Thanks Jess! I'm always stressed out about my on bike USB charger, I think my new one that I took on this trip is good, but I've gone through 2-3 on other bikes that didn't work or got wet so they didn't work anymore so I obsessively carry Power Banks lol
Thanks for your videos this last year. I'm Shure that you have helped lots of folks. Hope that you get to feeling better soon. Also hope that you had a great Christmas. Now let me wish you, your family and friends a Very Happy New Year 🎉 Till next time. Billy...
Research your proposed stop. I used a camping app last trip and when I got to destination it ended up being a private residence. And since it was close to dark, I just ended up paying for a room.
I am still struggling with getting off the road at a the right time to enjoy setting up camp. Happy New Year... time for me to binge your trip. All the best for 2021.
That was the long way around Set up the Rain Fly right. 😀 Great calendar, thank you. Lesson learned on my trip, yeah, find a place to stay early enough. Huge tip. Get well soon. 👍😎
I realize that LifeProof in our box have combined since OtterBox purchased LifeProof what do mean to tell me you couldn’t find a LifeProof box for your phone. Maybe you should pick your case before you pick your phone? The most important thing I learned from one of my trips is the plan out the expenses are AHEAD of time
Thank you for the video. Just saw this on RideApart - My goal was a Hwy 1 tour from Thousand Oaks, CA to Vancouver in the next couple years. My wife an I both ride, but we're also both RNs and our life has been on hold for the last year because of work. We have lots of saved up vacation time now and we're vaccinated, so this summer will be a big travel summer. If you have any tips about touring the Pacific Coast being from Oregon let me know. We're in Colorado now, but we grew up in Southern California, so we're familiar with that area, but have never been north of SF.
I am curious about how you feel about your bike for this type of a trip. Maybe you could do a short video showing what things made it hard and maybe what you thought might be an issue, but really ended up not being a problem at all. My main question would be how did the vibration of the parallel twin affect you? I recently subscribed and went back and watched all your videos of this trip. Great job.
These lessons are mostly just decisions you make while on the road that just make things more comfortable and convenient. These are all 100% great tips to learn from... but as always, when you’re on the road it’s easy to bend these tips to each situation.
What? Amanda you mean you don't want to motocamp with a huge case of prime lenses? Yeah, the 10 to 1 zoom is a better option IMO if you can only have one. I'll be "fiddling" around with my gopro tomorrow.
I'm in the cellphone industry. I find that a lot of people don't realize that most phones are waterproof these days. It is irritating when the screen gets wet. Makes it hard to use, but these days you could drop your phone 5 ft deep in a river without damaging it if it is a major brand.
Interesting! I have the Motorola MotoZ4 the guy who sold it to me at Verizon told me it was not waterproof lol and ya know expensive thing wasn't really interested in testing it lol
Yeah, looks like that phone is waterproof. Before they were, I used to steal those waterproof luggage tags from the check in line at Alaska Airlines. They fit a phone well and the touch screen works through it. Now, I still use them to keep my documentation (insurance, registration, passport) from getting wet.
Not sure if I agree 100%. I have an iPhone and I dropped in a toilet LOL. Still works, but other functionality won't anymore (like my pedometer and screen rotation). Mfg probably tested it, but if they don't advertise waterproof, I would not trust it.
@@mattingray5651 iPhones are very fragile. My daughter dropped hers. The screen didn't crack but the picture screwed up permanently. I've heard of that happening from vibes from some moto mounts, too.
Hi Amanda, my wife has questions about the State scratch off map of the United States behind you in this video. 1, what did you mount it on? 2 is it covered in any type of plexiglass or glass? And 3, why has New zyork not been scratched off yet?
Take pictures/videos, even if it is only with a phone, or a cheap digital camera. Take stupid pictures, bad pictures, even ones you (me) think are "artistic" and suck. Most people that are like me will never take pictures or videos like Miss Amanda, but our families will one day love the proof of what we did during our travels. Remember, take pictures/videos.
I was frequently stumped by Tim Collins setting up camp in the dusky evening hours. I think I’m too cautious:-) Travel lesson: ergonomics are SUPER important, handlebar risers, windscreen, etc. Spending time and making miles becomes literally painful when I’m cramped. Peace Amanda. Oh, PS - I have an upcoming 4 part motorcycle first aid series that will likely be ready for TH-cam in a few weeks, keep an eye out
On your trip, what advice would you give for personal safety? When my wife rides alone, her safety when she stops is something that has us concerned. When I ride alone, unless there 🪕🪕 I'm not worried about being attacked.
Mostly just trust your gut, if you get a bad feeling from someone or someplace, move on. Pay attention to your surroundings, know your exits, keep an eye on your bike, ya know the same things you would think about for your own safety while traveling around your own town. Mace only does you any good if you don't have to dig it out of the bottom of a pocket full of other stuff, same thing for a pocket knife. I have never been threatened, and when I do get a funky feeling from people I move on. I have never been attacked, and with the exception of a cheap tripod in Yellowstone, nothing has ever been stolen off my bike or myself and I've been traveling and camping alone off my motorcycle for 8 years. If you're kind and don't assume everyone is out to get you, you will meet far more nice people who just want to help on the road alone than you will meet mean people -in my experience. Everyone just wants to ask about the bike, how far I've gone, where I'm going, and then tell me about some relation they have that rides, or about their old bikes lol
@@AstheMagpieFlies Oh I found it. Sounds fun BUT Josh and I leave for our cross country ride on July 10th. We are riding with the Tribute to Fallen Soldiers to Arlington National Cemetery. We will honor families of fallen soldiers on the 1 month ride. It will then just be us on our ride home. Your videos really inspired me to do this with my son who has Down Syndrome. Our ride will be called, Bubba J’s Ride For 21.
"Maybe you should take more time..." is a dumb comment. Of course, you would enjoy it more but who has enough time? Time is the biggest limiting factor for most people, having jobs, families, commitments, etc... will always take to back home sooner than you want. Not going places because you don't have enough time will only keep you from going places.
Sometimes it sucks, you don't want to put in back to back 800mi days but sometimes it's the only way to make the trip work and it makes a better story than staying home.
I thoroughly enjoy your videos, they are great to watch when I'm in between getting out and doing the things.
THANK YOU Eric!
Agree 100 percent, if you don't make it happen, it never will!
Better that than never going at all. Long haul journeys are a different kind of fun 😁
Sometimes, it's the journey not the destination 🤙
Ditto, Eric. Also, "time" for people is relative. I may be able to get all I "need" from a spot in 10 minutes, but some people will want to take it in for an hour.
At 72 years of age, my most important observation is just do it! Don't keep putting it off. You can NEVER get that time back!
Yess!! Thanks Hal!
As a 73 year old I could not agree more.
I needed this! 🙏
You are awesome. Free spirits fly high through whatever faces them.. you are a genuine free spirit and your vids will have a positive effect on so many people for years to come. Thank you from ENGLAND U.K
Lessons I've learned - leave earlier. Everything takes longer than you think it will, don't push that time into the evening. On trips I'm moving by 7-8am, and try to be done by 3 or 4. Then, know when to stop (weather, tired, etc.). If it's pouring rain at noon, and your weather app says it'll rain all day, then find a hotel and relax. Yeah, it messes with your "schedule" but pushing hard in bad conditions is a recipe for disaster, and that's much worse. "Taking more time" is valid, but you have the time you have - if you can't adjust the days you have, then adjust what you see and do. Plan some down-time in the middle if at all possible - that's the oil change, bike wash, maintenance check day.
Thanks Tom!
Love the video and self reflection, that is exactly why I rely on you and other vloggers to save me making mistakes by having you make them first. My tips are:
1 Leave early and set an end time, mine is 4:00PM
2. Rely (when possible) on the generosity of strangers. On several occasions I arrived at a full campground but was able to set up a tent in a site with an RV simply by asking, I was only denied once. About 50% of the time I ended eating with my hosts. Never underestimate how awesome people are to help
3. Bring more water. Too much many times I was unable to dry camp for lack of water
You are awesome and humble, keep up the good work
Thanks Rick!!
haha I'm glad I could help XD
Truth Strangers are pretty awesome most of the time.
I too struggle with having to relearn lessons I learned previously. Things like, donning rain gear before it rains, traveling fewer miles per day and to schedule at least one non-riding day a week while on trips, and to depart each day at first light and to finish well before sunset.
End screen crew: When buying food get enough to cover two days in case you're nowhere near a store the next day. If you find a store then buy tomorrows meal and eat the 2nd day's food you already bought, today.
Having a fresh rolling food stock can be invaluable if you get caught out, and it means you don't have to carry a ton of food with you (as well as everything else). :).
Thanks Robin! :D
Emergency raingear tip. In a pinch, car inner-tubes can work at least for your legs to keep dry. I know it sounds crazy, but it does work!
Great idea thanks Brian!
Great video, yup we all learn lessons on trips. My short trip to RMR gave me a couple lessons: 1) don't over pack food you can buy it when you get there, 2) make sure you aren't going through a city during peak traffic time (Reserve street in Missoula during lunch hour) so as not to get stuck sitting on your hot bike during 90F temps in barely moving traffic, and 3) don't believe everything you think: when my brain goes into hyperdrive with worse case scenarios and other fearmongering I remind myself that I'm well prepared and will take on any difficulty when it actually comes up. I swear sometimes our own worst enemy is our mind itself! Safe travels and look forward to seeing you and all the super cool people this summer at RMR!!
Thanks Sandi!!
I'm sure I still overpack food sometimes but I'm getting a lot closer to only taking the things I know I will consume/things that are harder to get my hands on in a random grocery store. Like my favorite energy bars.
Stoked to see you at RMR6!! :D Can not wait!
Two things I learned on two trips I did. 1. Waterproof those boots (In NZ we have Dubbin that is great for waterproofing leather) 2. Spare pair of gloves while the others dry out.
GET YOUR RMR 2021 TICKLETS, IT IS NEVER TOO EARLY!!! I have mine and am planning like crazy so I can be ready. End Screen Crew Answer. Some of you may remember that I am a returning rider after a 25 ish year break. This summer after passing my tests and taking my class I proceeded to put 2000 miles on my scooter (2005 Suzuki Boulevard S50) in about a month and a half. My first solo ride taught me my most important lesson, Do not ride outside of your ability. I squeezed outside my line just a tiny bit because I came into the corner too fast and without any clue of when I was going to scrape. Thankfully nothing bad happened but I went back to the parking lot and practidced more, learning how far my scooter will lean and where to keep my eyes. I am happy to report that this lesson did not need to be learned at any other time last sommer....
I'm just back from a 4,425 km (2,750 mile) 15-day trip from my home in Canberra (Australia) to Tasmania (including overnight ferry crossing). The big lessons were: (1) any item of ostensibly waterproof clothing with a zip is ultimately not waterproof in torrential rain at 100 kph (my $800 'waterproof' jacket leaked something shocking and I had to buy non-biking rubber pants and jacket which worked very well); (2) camera gear and drone must be super accessible or else stopping to take shots becomes too much of a chore and doesn't happen; (3) being more patient with stopping to get petrol (compared to being in a car, there's so many actions that must be done in sequence - stop bike, gloves off, glasses off, helmet off, glasses on, tank bag off, petrol in, tank bag back on, unclip camelbak chest strap, zip open outer jacket, zip open inner jacket, remove wallet, pay for petrol, replace wallet, zip up inner jacket, zip up outer jacket, click together camelbak strap, glasses off, helmet on, gloves on, start bike - did I forget anything? Oh hell, I forgot to put my glasses back on ... now where are they?).
End screen: To carry a tire changing mat. Got a flat in the desert. As careful as we were, sand got in the tire causing a friction flat from the grains of sand on my next big ride. Adventure Rider Radio talked about these mats and I was given one for Christmas, which was cool.
Oh man! ughhh I guess you could also use the footprint for your tent (if you're also carrying your camping gear) But I could see how having a nice heavy duty matt would be useful!
Thanks Jessica!
Zoom is great for any time you are on the road. I mean there is a reason the 70-200 is the bread and butter for landscape photography. Especially if you aren't right up in tight valleys with big mountains 😉
Dude I've been drooling over that range 😭 one day, one day!!
If I had the bike for traveling long distance I would for sure did what you did I admire you for doing what you did and still had a great time and that is what it is about just enjoying the ride and viewing the magnificent photography that you did
Thanks very much! I appreciate that.
Best advice, getting to camp earlier. I've been riding for years, and still struggle with this ... especially when I'm riding with Elle. Ha!
Thanks Jeremy! :D
haha good to know I'm not the only one!
My riding buddies and I have more than once set up camp in the dark. Big pain! So usually doing 10-12 day camping ride we have plan A and plan B for our itinerary. For us it is the journey not the destination and more than not we never make the destination. So about 3PM we look at where we are verses when we wanted to be and then decide where to camp. Now that it looks like plan A is out the door, B goes into effect. Unlike your journey we don't care if we make the finally destination. The three of us have been doing this together for over 30 years and we now live in three different states. Oh and now were are just over 70 yrs old and now motel it but havent given up on the idea for bringing our tents! Love your vlogs!
Thanks so much man!
A big lesson for me was underestimating my need for water!
Ah yes! Hydration!!
Thanks Brad!
Hydration was a big one for me. I can dirt bag with the best of them and don't need much and if it breaks or gets loss I work around it. July on the Carolina coast is hot and I spent a fortune as I made my way across South/North Carolina and Virginia back roads. So thirsty
Too many of us have learned this the HARD way. #LessGearMoreWater
Didn’t travel in 2020, but in 2019, the big lesson: give yourself more than an hour to pack your bags (and don't save that hour until the hour before you need to leave) 😅
Zoom lenses are awesome btw 👏🏻
👏🙌 Thanks Kari!
Big lesson this year- My need to plan everything to death pairs amazing with long term motorcycle travel. Yay for being over prepared!
Being prepared definitely helps!
Thank you for the tips! With all of the videos you've made, similar to these, I feel so much more ready when the time comes for me to hit the road. I feel like I'll hear you in my head. 😆
The lesson I learned from travels in 2020 was always bring more water than you think you'll need.
Thanks man :D haha I have so many voices in my head when I travel it's nice to know I'll be one of the voices in someone else's head XD
Water is soo important!!
All that matters is that you had a memorable, safe, and enjoyable trip. Don’t look back, you’re not going that way.
It's also very important to learn the lessons from history so you don't repeat them. Ya know...
My bad days almost always boil down to one thing: too many miles. Sometimes I only realize later the cool roads and cool sights I could have seen if I’d only not been in a hurry to cover more miles. (And if you’re one of those riders that judges the quality of the ride by the number of miles, that’s great for you, and have at it. My measuring tape is just different.)
Love post trip analysis! My friend and I did a 5000km trip this year and a 3500km trip last year. We found the same as you - lessons you thought you knew were still being re-learned the next trip. Also, we have a hard time slowing down and taking an extra day or two in some places.. and regretting after the trip was done. Hopefully next season. 😁
Thanks Jim! :) I'll be going over all the money I spent in next week's video! :D
Even with your travel experience I think every trip you learn something new about packing or organising the trip or what gear to take, I know I do, I have done a lot of Scotland touring, only live 100 miles from Scottish border but every trip I learn something, love your videos Amanda and stay safe sending biker love from the northeast of England x
No matter how many times I 'learn' lesson number one, I consistently opt for re-learning it.
Primes and zooms both have their qualities. I don't feel any apologies are needed.
Same with trip planning and miles/day. It's all part of the adventure. The most important thing is that YOU DID it. No one can take that away from you.
The lesson I learned in 2020 is to not let other people's change of plans cancel your plans. I had plenty of opportunities to learn it prior to 2020, but I think I actually did learn it now.
p.s. The rain fly lesson I only had to learn once. Pitching a tent in a swale is one that I get to re-visit now and again.
Thanks Christopher!
A camping item that I now consider indispensable is an artificial chamois. One wipe of a dewy tent fly or motorcycle seat or rear view mirror and they are virtually dry. Wring it out, put it in the zip lock until the next use. Makes starting out much nicer.
For sure very useful!
Another great Video! East Coast camping can be a challenge. Besides Motorcycle I have also toured extensively by bicycle and more recently motorhome. When I plan I try to line up 3 campgrounds with an hour of where I want to stop for the day. 95% of the time one of the three will have a site for me. One of the cool things about the midwest is many of the small towns have a campground that are free or minimal cost. You usually find these along the old 2 lane US highways. I also use the Allstays paid app for finding camping. In my experience it is the most comprehensive. Happy Year and looking forward to more of your adventures!
Thanks Rick!
Things I’ve learned..... Spending money on a good Helinox chair is worth it. Same for a 4” mattress. Use quality wicking socks and underwear. No bungees! Straps or hybrid Rok straps are best. Less is best. Thanks for the vids!
Yaaa new Chair and a good sleeping pad!
Thanks V2 Viking!
I grew up in New Jersey, we went camping every summer. I recall always needing reservations in northeast during the summer months
Thanks Matt!
Definitely second the waterproof point, getting wet can dampen (no pun intended) the experience and In our case changed the whole trip. Biggest lesson we learned is be flexible and it removes the stress allowing you to enjoy yourselves.
Thanks man :)
I’m one of those morning people. Early to bed, early to rise. Especially when I travel. Break camp fast and go.
Maybe one day I will become one of these elusive "morning people" XD
I am too, often getting to my destination well before lunch, then wondering if I should move on to tomorrow's destination!
I carry a Nikon P900 that has a 24-2000 km zoom. Great for getting photos of that bear, moose or bison that are hundreds of yards away.
I was excited to see another one of your videos and such great tips. Things were going along great right up to the point that you said, make sure to cover your phone with a good case. Of course two days ago I sent my life proof case back, now I will order it back because you’re so right. Thanks Amanda be safe, healthy and have a great 2021
Lol sorry BoDean! But I promise you won't regret having it! Lol just not having it!
Thanks also for always being a positive light in my comments! I really appreciate it ☺️
Lessons learned for sure! Thank-you for sharing these videos for us to watch and learn from! I appreciate your sunshine!! 😀🌞
Couldn't agree more about making sure you arrive at the campsite prior to dark... for a different reason thought. From my personal experience you waste a lot of really fine end-of-the-day bourbon when trying to pour it in the dark. You can ponder how I know this of course. Hope you get to feeling better. Wow: end crew got a glimpse of Amanda unchained... tell us how you really feel! :)
Thanks Richard!
Oh noooo the bourbon!
lol yaa hindsight is 20/20 probably should have left that out. I blame the fact that I've been poorly for like a whole month now. But also because I've gotten sooo freaking many of those types of comments it's getting on my nerves a bit lol
My lesson learned on the road... don't expect clothes to dry overnight when you wash them in the evening and you don't have a good (warm) place to hang them...
Get ready to put on some nice wet soggy clothes in the morning 😅
Much love from holland😁
oh gosh! especially if they're cotton! lol
That's why all the clothes that go on the road with me are either synthetic or merino wool lol
Lesson learned: Always! Always! and always stake out your free standing no matter what!
For real! Thanks Stacey!
lesson learned: dont camp on land jutting into the middle of a large lake. it was so windy and cold we had to block off the wind with our car so our fire wouldnt go out and and our tent collapsed and was flapping all night.
eek ya! I try and avoid camping next to water that's not flowing because they also attract a lot of bugs!
Beaches fall into that category as well
Great video. What I learned the hard way is create a packing list of all your gear. As you pack it check it off the list. Did this after I forgot to pack my sleeping bag. Slept in my tent with all my riding gear on. Used my dry bag to keep my feet warm 😀😃
Oh nooo lol Sleeping Bag!! XD
Thanks for the giggle Kevin!
Watching you was great because even with everything you always stayed positive. loved watching your journey and plan on doing something like this in the future. anytime your in southeastern Ohio you are welcome to stay at my place.
Great lessons!! I am very interested in a waterproof phone case/holder! The lesson I learned on my last trip is that although I love to travel on my bike, I really miss my dogs and 3 weeks is a long time away from home, and for them too. I think they were a little traumatized. Naa, they’re resilient pups. Haha. I do think 2 weeks is max for future trips though. Lessons from the past - always carry an extra key fob battery.
My most important lesson... Water. I'm from the southwest. And Loctite. Really late night to camp due to no Loctite. We got it fixed. Thanks to Ziptie. But it was late!
Glad I found your channel! Thank you! Planning a cross country trip this year, this is the inspiration I need to get through this last bit of cold weather and cabin fever lol
My most memorable lesson learned is 'never pass gas'. A nugget from aviation! Once you've pushed a laden bike a few hundred yards up a slight incline that felt flat before you chugged to a stop, this lesson is tattooed on the brain. So what if your machine is supposed to do 200 miles plus between fill ups? Does NOT pay to test this 😩
lol I have also learned that one the hard way man!
@@AstheMagpieFlies for a hot second i thought he was talking about farting in the tent
A 28-300mm pretty much lives on my D800 for just that reason. I have a few other lenses, particularly a 50mm, but you just can't beat the ready versatility of a good zoom range.
LED string lights were one I found as well. I had a different set but I may see about those ones as they look far better.
So very much agreed on the rainfly advice. I was glad that I did it each time.
Thanks Danielle lol glad I'm not the only person obsessing over a good zoom lens for travel XD
@@AstheMagpieFlies if the pandemic hadn't happened my plans were to buy a fancier one by now - a faster one for when I did photos at the H Town Kings drag shows (yes, I know that's firmly in the "sentences only I would say" category!)
I find if you're on a tight schedule. "stop discipline" can often be an area where you bleed time. quick lunch, vs a long meandering one. being aimless about where you're stopping (looking for the perfect local spot vs some shitty fast food)... when you set the alarm for 7, but don't get up until closer to 9 and don't head out/break down camp until 11. on a short trip maybe not a big deal, but half an hour, or an hour, each day, over a longer period. can really add up.
My biggest lesson was Gail force winds can send fire ambers far enough to put holes in your tent.
In hind sight, the trip not takin', the trip not enjoyed.. Happy New Year Amanda!
Happy new year!
I underestimated the need for luggage, I flew across the country to Florida, bought my bike and rode back half way across country to ColoRADo in the first week of April.... all I had for luggage was a hiking backpack, needless to say my back was killing me and I had very minimal gear besides gloves and a helmet.. and really I needed proper gear too! I nearly froze going over Vail Pass... with snow on the ground of course.
The biggest thing I've learned about motorcycle touring, in general, is that everything will take longer than you plan it to. I know you know this. I'm not going to criticize how much distance you tried to cover in how little time. You succeeded, right? That's all that matters! But yeah, someday I need to return to Cape Breton, NS, to see all the stuff I wish I'd had time to see the last time I rode a motorcycle there.
Thanks Justin! :)
Same. I started comparing my estimates with actual times, as it was getting frustrating not meeting my own goals for destinations. Turns out all those little stops I like to do add another 20-25% more time for me. Since I started taking that into account when planning each day's trip it's gotten a lot better, including eating in the light! Not to say there aren't still days when I push into the dark but I feel better about knowingly choosing those.
I think she recommended in some video that always add an extra 2 hours per destination and I found that it worked out very well for me.
Happy New Year and thanks for all your great videos! I retired my big cameras and use a Canon Elf that I put on before my helmet. Takes great images and videos without the bulk. Been carrying a small roll of blue painters tape to put a strip at the top of the visor to block early and late afternoon sun.
Happy New Year! Sometimes it's nicer to have a compact camera!
Well my last trip back in 1980 I learned I was Then Came Bronson! Lol. Just like the show I met people all along the way. The last of which were 2 people from Switzerland and 2 from New Zealand at a camp ground in New Orleans. It's just about time for a new one this year. And I worry about you riding at night. Thanks Mark
lol Thanks Mark!
Great tips, my friend! End screen: Biggest lesson I learned on my last big trip (not 2020) was my waterproof rain gear is only rain resistant, and that after 3-4 hours in an 18 hour ride/downpour, you just don't care (and to make sure my phone is locked in the tail box, which IS waterproof, LOL) Happy Not-2020/New Year! 😁✌
Thanks friend! :D
Ah yes the battle against water continues lol
Happy New Year!
OMG, most important thing I learned this year on a 2,100 km trip in 7 days.... The standard seat on a 2020 Africa Twin feels like your sitting on cold concrete after several hours which is then multiplied day after day after day....
I've now got an AirHawk air bladder seat cover thing which hopefully will make it bearable on my next big trip which is coming up very, very soon... (but I'll find out about whether or not the seat is more comfy next week when I go out MotoCamping - stay tuned for the video).
Keep at it :-D
My 2020 first adventure trip, soft luggage mistake. People recommend since it is easier to take with you. However, I quickly learn that I can't leave the bike unattended (like go inside a store) for too long. There is no safety lock. I am converting to a removable and lockable hard luggage now. I only use a rear luggage since I do not camp.
Well, that was fun.
Another enjoyable video composition 😊
Hope you're feeling lots better and soon!
Thanks so much Scott! 😊
I always appreciate seeing your name in the comments section!
Unfortunately still not feeling too great, but I'm hanging in there lol could always be worse.
another top video,keep them coming i will keep watching, all the very best on your forthcoming travels,stay safe and a happy new year to you(uk fan)
Thanks so much Ian!
Happy New Year!
Happy new year to you and your supportive family, Amanda. Thank you for all of your wonderful sharings in 2020. You're a generous soul. You have the skills to have your own business that involves motorcycling too. Perhaps a motorcycle touring biz? 2021 may be a good time to explore different kinds of challenges. Stay healthy and jubilant in spirit, young lady. It has a positive effect on many of your fans.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for watching it!! :)
I appreciate that lol but right now there's a lot more legal expenses involved with being a touring biz that are out of the cards for the foreseeable future.
Biggest lesson for me ... choose your travel partners carefully ... it makes a huge difference if you're all on the same page ... I had a trip cut short ... just saying ... choose wisely ... :-)
Didn't get to be out this year much but in the past I always carry ziplock bags in case it rains and the phone and that go in their own bags. Getting wet sucks but replacing electronics sucks more :)
True!
but unfortunately can't charge it, can't see it, can't use it while it's in a ziploc. I know lol I've tried that one when I was leading group dirt rides for the dealership! Hence why I got the lifeproof case for the last phone. Since I use my phone as nav in the PNW, it makes it pretty important to be able to at least SEE it even if it is raining.
I will say that twice in the last 12 months or so I did 1,000 mile days. In an effort to make sure I was spending time on the road and not at the rest stops I conservatively at beef jerky and drank water. Gave myself a kidney stone on the last trip in the last 200 miles with the high sodium and low hydration. No matter what, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Water! not tea, coffee, or soda.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with a good zoom or 3. A 16-35, 24-70 and 70-200 will cover just about any situation. I love my primes but sometimes I just want more flexibility. Especially when I'm traveling. Just another tool in the bag.
Thanks James!
Wow!!!! You are a bad ass! Excellent riding!
My tip? Bring an old plastic peanut butter jar into your tent at night. No getting up, and out into the cold, damp and mosquitoes to go pee.
mhmm I'm sure that works great when you're a dude lol
For me, it is Slow down and smell the roses. Don't always have to Go, Do, See...
👏👏
Stop when you want, if you don't, then regret sets in. I will always wonder what I missed by not stopping to take a look. Being retired, I do not have the time constraints that other people do so I try to make time to see what is out there that is not visible from your route.
👍 Thanks for sharing D Max!
Super learned by experience, info. The best learned lesson is a self taught lesson...
Thanks for sharing
Thanks Solodad!
And test your waterproofs are actually waterproof before you need them to be waterproof. Oh the memories of a one - piece oversuit that was a tea bag in disguise.. Soggy leathers for 400 miles and you can guess how nice they were the next day too.
oh no!!
Great job sharing the lessons learned. Thanks. J.
Zoom zoom . Add couple hours to trip for stop and sight seeing
Right there with you on the zoom lens thing - might not be the pinnacle of image quality but the face they pack so much versatility into a compact space outweighs that enough for me. Which reminds me, I need a new full frame camera....
Lessons? Take more time, more video and more photos. I always wish I'd got more from any trip. Always my own fault of course!
Don't be afraid to try to duck a storm or pull off under some shelter and let it pass. Hail SUCKS, especially in mesh gear.
100% Hail sucks a LOT
Wise counsel. No.1 priority on anything I use on my motorbikes is... waterproofing, cos it rains in the UK.... a lot, until it doesn't, like this summer. End Screen Answer: Lesson learned... slow down on motorway (highway) bridges in strong side winds, cos if you don't it scares the sh*t out of you.... Face it Neil, you are not 19 any more. I hope you are soon feeling better Amanda.
Thanks Neil!
The battle to keep everything dry is a universal struggle I think! lol or at least for those of us that exist outside Southern California XD
A great off road, waterproof with a 3 year covers everything warranty, yes even cracking the screen check out something called a "SONIM xp8" it is the best smart phone ever you can even use the screen with your gloves on.
Oooooo! Interesting! Thanks for the tip Vincent!
Fantastic vid! One lesson I learned is ensuring that my on-bike USB device charger is reliable. The cheap one I purchased off Amazon failed after a few days on the road. Kept the power bank in my tank bag so wasn't too big of an issue. Thanks for all the great info!
Thanks Jess!
I'm always stressed out about my on bike USB charger, I think my new one that I took on this trip is good, but I've gone through 2-3 on other bikes that didn't work or got wet so they didn't work anymore so I obsessively carry Power Banks lol
Thanks for your videos this last year. I'm Shure that you have helped lots of folks. Hope that you get to feeling better soon. Also hope that you had a great Christmas. Now let me wish you, your family and friends a Very Happy New Year 🎉 Till next time.
Billy...
Thank you Billy! I really appreciate that!
Happy New Year!! :D
We learn daily !!!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR
Happy new year!
Thanks, Amanda. I really enjoy your videos.Happy New Year!
Happy new year! Thanks so much!
Research your proposed stop. I used a camping app last trip and when I got to destination it ended up being a private residence. And since it was close to dark, I just ended up paying for a room.
👌 Thanks Mike!
I am still struggling with getting off the road at a the right time to enjoy setting up camp. Happy New Year... time for me to binge your trip. All the best for 2021.
Makes me feel a little better I'm not the only one struggling with that one!
Happy New Year!
Professional 2day camper here, if the campsite is close (couple hours) take a day to scout it out ahead of time.
@@Crazy-Chicken-Media That's a good tip. I've done that several times. Reduces the stress significantly. And I get an 'extra' ride in.
Ziploc sandwich bags are my waterproof cases for my phone, GPS, Sena and walet. Really not model specific. LOL
Can't charge it, can't see it, can't use it while it's in a ziploc. I know lol I've tried.
That was the long way around Set up the Rain Fly right. 😀 Great calendar, thank you. Lesson learned on my trip, yeah, find a place to stay early enough. Huge tip. Get well soon. 👍😎
Thanks David! :D Glad you got your Calendar safe and sound!
I realize that LifeProof in our box have combined since OtterBox purchased LifeProof what do mean to tell me you couldn’t find a LifeProof box for your phone. Maybe you should pick your case before you pick your phone?
The most important thing I learned from one of my trips is the plan out the expenses are AHEAD of time
lol maybe!
Speaking of expenses! I'm going over everything I spent on the trip next week! :D
Thank you for the video. Just saw this on RideApart - My goal was a Hwy 1 tour from Thousand Oaks, CA to Vancouver in the next couple years. My wife an I both ride, but we're also both RNs and our life has been on hold for the last year because of work. We have lots of saved up vacation time now and we're vaccinated, so this summer will be a big travel summer. If you have any tips about touring the Pacific Coast being from Oregon let me know. We're in Colorado now, but we grew up in Southern California, so we're familiar with that area, but have never been north of SF.
Love this, thanks for putting yourself out there and sharing your journey with us. Best wishes for a fantastic new year! From a Canadian fan :)
Thank YOU so much for watching it :)
Thank you for all the GREAT videos. Because of you, I know what to pack .. Happy New Year..
AW! Thanks so much man! Happy New Year!
I am curious about how you feel about your bike for this type of a trip. Maybe you could do a short video showing what things made it hard and maybe what you thought might be an issue, but really ended up not being a problem at all. My main question would be how did the vibration of the parallel twin affect you? I recently subscribed and went back and watched all your videos of this trip. Great job.
These lessons are mostly just decisions you make while on the road that just make things more comfortable and convenient. These are all 100% great tips to learn from... but as always, when you’re on the road it’s easy to bend these tips to each situation.
Ummmm...I guess I'm sorry I disappointed you?
@@AstheMagpieFlies Hardly at all. I was just suggesting that these all are great tips but how often do we do everything ideally?
What? Amanda you mean you don't want to motocamp with a huge case of prime lenses? Yeah, the 10 to 1 zoom is a better option IMO if you can only have one. I'll be "fiddling" around with my gopro tomorrow.
haha right? I know. Crazy talk! :P
I'm in the cellphone industry. I find that a lot of people don't realize that most phones are waterproof these days. It is irritating when the screen gets wet. Makes it hard to use, but these days you could drop your phone 5 ft deep in a river without damaging it if it is a major brand.
Interesting! I have the Motorola MotoZ4 the guy who sold it to me at Verizon told me it was not waterproof lol and ya know expensive thing wasn't really interested in testing it lol
Yeah, looks like that phone is waterproof. Before they were, I used to steal those waterproof luggage tags from the check in line at Alaska Airlines. They fit a phone well and the touch screen works through it. Now, I still use them to keep my documentation (insurance, registration, passport) from getting wet.
Not sure if I agree 100%. I have an iPhone and I dropped in a toilet LOL. Still works, but other functionality won't anymore (like my pedometer and screen rotation). Mfg probably tested it, but if they don't advertise waterproof, I would not trust it.
@@mattingray5651 iPhones are very fragile. My daughter dropped hers. The screen didn't crack but the picture screwed up permanently. I've heard of that happening from vibes from some moto mounts, too.
great info, thank you
Thanks for watching!
Hi Amanda, my wife has questions about the State scratch off map of the United States behind you in this video. 1, what did you mount it on? 2 is it covered in any type of plexiglass or glass? And 3, why has New zyork not been scratched off yet?
Hey Eric and Diane!
Nope not covered in anything, It's just push pinned to a cork board. Becauuuse I haven't been there yet.
Take pictures/videos, even if it is only with a phone, or a cheap digital camera. Take stupid pictures, bad pictures, even ones you (me) think are "artistic" and suck. Most people that are like me will never take pictures or videos like Miss Amanda, but our families will one day love the proof of what we did during our travels. Remember, take pictures/videos.
Waterproof phone case is a must. You know it will always rain at some point. Lol
For real! lol Never gonna escape the rain for sure. Thanks Shawn!
I was frequently stumped by Tim Collins setting up camp in the dusky evening hours. I think I’m too cautious:-) Travel lesson: ergonomics are SUPER important, handlebar risers, windscreen, etc. Spending time and making miles becomes literally painful when I’m cramped. Peace Amanda. Oh, PS - I have an upcoming 4 part motorcycle first aid series that will likely be ready for TH-cam in a few weeks, keep an eye out
Thanks Rik!
On your trip, what advice would you give for personal safety? When my wife rides alone, her safety when she stops is something that has us concerned. When I ride alone, unless there 🪕🪕 I'm not worried about being attacked.
Mostly just trust your gut, if you get a bad feeling from someone or someplace, move on.
Pay attention to your surroundings, know your exits, keep an eye on your bike, ya know the same things you would think about for your own safety while traveling around your own town.
Mace only does you any good if you don't have to dig it out of the bottom of a pocket full of other stuff, same thing for a pocket knife.
I have never been threatened, and when I do get a funky feeling from people I move on. I have never been attacked, and with the exception of a cheap tripod in Yellowstone, nothing has ever been stolen off my bike or myself and I've been traveling and camping alone off my motorcycle for 8 years.
If you're kind and don't assume everyone is out to get you, you will meet far more nice people who just want to help on the road alone than you will meet mean people -in my experience. Everyone just wants to ask about the bike, how far I've gone, where I'm going, and then tell me about some relation they have that rides, or about their old bikes lol
👍👍 happy new year 🎆
Happy new year
Very informative, don't half ass it pretty well sums it up
🤣
😄👌
Thanks for the tips. Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof. I want to take a day trip up 5 and say hi to ya. Introduce you to Bubba J
👍 Maybe you could come to Rocky Mountain Roll instead!
@@AstheMagpieFlies Where is that?
@@AstheMagpieFlies Oh I found it. Sounds fun BUT Josh and I leave for our cross country ride on July 10th. We are riding with the Tribute to Fallen Soldiers to Arlington National Cemetery. We will honor families of fallen soldiers on the 1 month ride. It will then just be us on our ride home. Your videos really inspired me to do this with my son who has Down Syndrome. Our ride will be called, Bubba J’s Ride For 21.