Tips for a long vacation out-of-town

[andyferd_imp]

I think the longest ride I've done is maybe 2.5 hours round trip leaving the house and returning same day. Tomorrow I'm riding to the coast (3ish hours one way) and staying there for a week. Do you guys have any tips for safety, comfort, etc? Just want to make sure I'm the most prepared. I will be riding alongside my father-in-law. Thanks!

[Mscb1100_imp]

Check your tires/air pressure, fill up the tank check your oil level, put a bottle of water in your jacket.
Tell him your daughter is the best thing that ever happened to you!
Enjoy the ride

[Stichill_imp]

Try to get off the bike for 10 minutes every hour to hour-and-a-half. Keep hydrated. Ride staggered formation, leader on the left. Use turn signals. Don’t follow loose loads. When going slow through towns, stand up on the pegs. Think about a cramp buster / throttle rocker. Pass with caution (be patient).

[Cormanus]

All of the above. If you can't get past a truck, keep a respectful distance so you can react if a retread or something else comes adrift.

Enjoy yourself.

[LongRanger_imp]

All excellent tips. I’ll add mine: When riding with others, always ride your own ride. Don’t allow yourself to feel pressured to keep up with the “fast guys,” and don’t overtake traffic just because they did. Conditions change quickly and it may no longer be safe to pass. Ride your own ride.

With your father-in-law, I imagine you will have a great time and not feel compelled to “keep up,” so enjoy!

[Cormanus]

Just to expand on LR's point: if you're out the front, don't allow yourself to feel pressured by the person behind you. I say this from experience.

[Pauley]

Saying hydrated was mentioned. Very important especially if you’re riding across the San Joaquin Valley to the coast (Pismo area?). Get an evaporative cooling vest! Those things are wonderful and will save you agony. Ride your own ride and be safe!

[andyferd_imp]

Wow, thanks everyone! Very helpful.

Pauley....Fresno to Morro Bay

[emptysea]

Ride your own ride. But your father in law is always right.

Oh, and don’t ride “alongside” him. Staggered with a two second interval is safer, but I’m sure you know that.

Also pack half as much clothing as you think you’ll need.

Have a great trip. Safe travels.

[Lord Popgun]

Like was said, keep hydrated. Wear hearing protection. Like ear plugs. Just do it.