Home to some of the most challenging rides in the world, ensuring that you’re properly prepared for your Leh Ladakh bike trip is essential for your enjoyment of it. You need to ensure that you have everything you could possibly need, whilst at the same time avoiding unnecessary items that will just weigh you down. Plus, some amenities and facilities (such as ATMs, petrol stations, accommodation, phone connectivity and mechanics) are few and far between, which means that a solid backup plan is a must.
Use this guide to create your own packing checklist:
1. Clothing
The weather on bike trips to Leh can be unpredictable and the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. As such, you need clothing to suit all the elements. Layers will help you to fight the cold and can be easily removed as the temperature rises. We recommend light woollen layers that aren’t too tight fitting. You should also carry some ‘normal’ clothes (like cotton t-shirts and jeans), as well as a set of thermals, a windproof jacket, and woollen socks and gloves.
2. Toiletries
As Ladakh is a region on the edge of development, finding your daily essentials could prove to be a real challenge so it’s recommended that you bring all of your toiletries with you. Even if you are able to find these products on bike trips to Leh, they’re unlikely to be the brands you prefer. This includes: lip balm, moisturiser, sunscreen, tissues, tooth brush and toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hand soap, face and body wash, a comb, a pocket mirror and a shaving kit.
3. Accessories
You will likely find that some things are not as readily available as they are when travelling in your home country. Having a handful of accessories in your bag can be a real lifesaver whilst on the road. These include: sunglasses, multiplug extension cords, a small backpack or carry bag (for use when sightseeing so you don’t have to carry your large bag), nylon rope and bungee cords, torch, power bank, safety pins, hand sanitiser and even a couple of books to read.
4. Food
Although meals are generally provided on Leh Ladakh bike trips, having something to snack on whilst travelling the open road is often appreciated. We recommend chocolates, dried fruits and nuts – they will give you an instant energy boost and are easy to carry. Fresh fruit, which also makes a great snack, is fortunately not too difficult to come by. Carrying an extra water bottle or two can also come in handy in situations where you find yourself parched.
5. Medicines
The high altitude and extreme weather on bike trips to Leh can lead to sickness if your body is not prepared. Acute mountain sickness is a common condition, which includes symptoms like severe headaches, vomiting, nausea and weakness. Plus, accidents can – and do – happen. This is why carrying a first aid kit can be highly beneficial. It’s also a good idea to speak with your doctor prior to travelling to see what medications they can prescribe you.
6. Documents
Thanks to its conservation policies, Ladakh is actually a pretty restricted area. As such, there are a number of legal documents that you need to carry – failing to abide by the rules of the region could lead to a heavy penalty. Your Ladakh motorcycle tour will be able to provide more information, but some documents you may need to carry include your passport, drivers license, inner line permit, medical insurance (if you have it), contact details of family/friends back home, and a copy of your itinerary.
We are certain that a packing checklist based on the information outlined above will save you from a major crisis whilst on your Leh Ladakh bike trip. You won’t forget anything and your journey will go as smoothly as possible. Keep in mind, though, that everyone is different – there may be important items missing from this list or we may have covered items that you don’t have much need for. It’s always recommended to ask your Ladakh motorcycle tour company for packing tips, but we hope that this article forms a solid starting point.
