7 Must-Have Gadgets for Motorcycle Touring in 2026

QUICK LIST By Greg Toope · August 9, 2026 · 5 min read

After 200,000 km (124,000 mi) of touring, I've whittled my gadget list down to the things that actually make a difference. Not theoretical "nice to haves" — things I use every single trip. Here are the 7 I never leave without.

1. Insta360 GO 3S — 39g Helmet POV Camera ($349)
   The smallest action camera you can mount on a helmet. At 39 grams, you forget it's there. 4K video, 140 minutes of recording. I use it for every ride — hands-free POV that captures the moment without taking your hands off the bars.
2. Insta360 X5 — 360 Camera for Reframing ($499)
   Shoot 360, reframe later. Never miss the shot because you pointed the camera the wrong way. I mount this on a selfie stick and capture everything around me — perfect for scenic routes where you don't know which direction the best view will be.
3. Sena or Cardo Bluetooth Intercom ($200-$400)
   For group rides, navigation prompts, and taking the occasional call at a rest stop. A helmet intercom is the difference between riding with friends and riding near friends. The Sena 50S and Cardo Packtalk Edge are the current leaders.
4. Phone Mount with Wireless Charging ($80-$150)
   A Quad Lock or similar secure phone mount keeps your navigation visible. The wireless charging version keeps your phone alive on long days — GPS drains batteries fast, especially in cold weather.
5. Portable Tire Repair Kit ($30-$60)
   Plug kit, CO2 cartridges, and a mini compressor. I've used mine three times over 200,000 km — twice on my bike, once to help a stranger. When you're 200 km (124 mi) from the nearest tire shop, this kit gets you rolling again.
6. Portable Power Station ($200-$500)
   A 100Wh power bank keeps your camera batteries, phone, and intercom charged during multi-day trips. The NEEWER PS099F V-Mount battery I reviewed is perfect — 99Wh, airline-legal, and charges everything via USB-C.
7. Thermal Imaging Camera ($200-$300)
   The newest addition to my kit. A thermal camera lets you check tire temperatures, brake caliper heat, and engine temperatures at fuel stops — catching problems before they become roadside breakdowns. Prices have dropped from $2,000 to under $300.