The Essentials of International Moto-Travel
Unequivocally being one of the ultimate adventure experiences available in the modern world, there’s an obvious allure to traveling internationally by motorcycle. While on paper it may seem like it’s as simple as pointing your bike in a direction and riding for hundreds if not thousands of miles, the reality is there’s quite a bit more involved in taking on a border-crossing moto journey.
For our latest journal entry we’ll be unpacking the finer points on exactly what’s required for taking on the world on two wheels, broken down into four simple areas. So no matter where you’re headed, what borders you plan on crossing, or how long of a trip you plan on taking, this guide has got you covered.
Document Checklist
Because you are importing heavy machinery, paperwork errors can end your trip. Ensure all names match your passport letter-for-letter.
Personal: Passport (with ample empty pages), driver's license with motorcycle endorsement, and any required travel visas or health records.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Translates your license into multiple languages (available via AAA).
Bike Ownership: Original registration and title (no copies).
Temporary Import Permit (TIP): Issued at borders to legally open a window of time for your bike to be in the country.
Carnet de Passage: A "passport for your bike" required in parts of Asia, Africa, and Australia. Requires a bank deposit to guarantee you won't sell the vehicle illegally.
Local Insurance: Your home policy won't cover you abroad. Buy local third-party liability insurance online or at border checkpoints.
The Silk Road in Nepal
Choosing the Right Bike
Ditch the exotic high-tech adventure bikes (e.g., Ducati Multistrada, MV Agusta Enduro Veloce, or KTM 1390 Super Adventure S). If you break down in a developing country, sourcing specialized parts is nearly impossible. Traveling on a $30,000 adventure motorcycle in certain regions can also put something of a target on your back. BMW GS models are a bit of an exception but in general it's better to opt for simple, tried-and-true, bulletproof models from Japanese marques—like the Kawasaki KLR or a Honda XR. Any local shop can fix them, and parts are easy to find.
Agafay Desert in Morocco
Baja California
Border Crossings & Customs
Expect a multi-step process for both you and the two-wheeler.
The Inspection: Customs officers will meticulously match your paperwork to the bike’s physical VIN and engine numbers.
Double-Check Everything: Before riding away from the border, verify that the agent typed every digit of your VIN and name correctly. A single typo can deny you entry at the next border.
Shipping & Logistics
When oceans or impassable borders block your path, you have two choices:
Sea Freight: Budget-friendly, but takes weeks or months.
Air Freight: Expensive, but fast. Both require the same core ownership paperwork.
Crossing through the Gulf of Nicoya in Costa Rica
The Golden Rule: Pack for the climate, research previous riders' routes, and maintain an adaptable mindset. When things go wrong—and they will—flexibility is your most important asset.
Iceland Central Highlands
