Bunk-a-Biker: The Key to Memorable and Affordable Motorcycle Trips
A lot of planning goes into motorcycle travel, you’re figuring out which gear to pack and how to optimise the distance you’re riding each day, but when it comes to rest stops, the options can feel a little...limited. Hotels can be impersonal and drain your budget, some motels can feel a little off (especially when travelling solo), and camping isn't always feasible, depending on the season and your itinerary.
What if I told you that there is another option out there, specifically tailored to the motorcycle community? Enter Bunk-a-Biker, a platform specifically designed for motorcyclists seeking safe, comfortable, and budget-friendly accommodation on their adventures.
What is Bunk-a-Biker?
Bunk-a-Biker connects motorcycle travellers with hospitable motorcycle riders who offer a spare room, couch, or even a patch of ground to pitch your tent. It fosters a unique sense of community and camaraderie within the motorcycle world, and is the perfect way to meet new people. Accommodation is typically free, though some hosts may request a small contribution to cover expenses. (Tip: Bring a token from your home area)
How to Use Bunk-a-Biker for Your Motorcycle Trip:
Plan Your Route: Before diving into the Bunk-a-Biker map, plan out your desired motorcycle trip itinerary. Knowing your overnight stops will help you search for hosts in those areas.
Head to Bunk-a-Biker: Visit the Bunk-a-Biker website or go straight to the Bunk-a-Biker map (saving this to your bookmarks will save you time while on the road). You can search for hosts by location and filter by the type of accommodation they are offering: outside only, inside only, or both inside and outside. Indicated with location pins in different colours, it is easy to browse the map and see which host could be a good fit.
Explore Host Profiles: Once you've identified potential hosts, take some time to read the information they’ve provided. Learn about what kind of accommodation they offer, the sort of area they’re in, what you can expect and any specific house rules they may have.
Initiate Contact: Once you've found a promising host, send them a message through the contact option they have listed on their pin, this could be email or text depending on their preference. Introduce yourself, tell them about your trip, and inquire about availability for your desired dates.
Communicate Clearly: Clear communication is key and essential for a good understanding about house rules, expectations, and how/where to park your motorcycle overnight. Be upfront about your arrival and departure times, any dietary restrictions you may have, and any questions you might have about their accommodations.
Safety First:
While Bunk-a-Biker fosters a welcoming community, safety should always be a priority. The platform has a page dedicated to safety both for hosts and guests, highlighting some good practices and what to expect. Here are some highlighted tips:
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off about a host, their profile, or their communication, don't hesitate to move on.
Let Someone Know: A golden rule of travel in general, it is always a good idea to inform a friend or family member about your itinerary and who you'll be staying with each night.
Beyond Accommodation:
Bunk-a-Biker isn't just about finding a place to sleep. It's also a fantastic way to connect with fellow motorcycle riders. Hosts often have local riding knowledge and recommendations, making your trip even richer. If you want to get a feel for the community, or explore what you can expect, I highly suggest to check out the Bunk-a-Biker Facebook group.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Bunk-a-Biker can be a game-changer for your next motorcycle adventure. With a little planning and communication, you can experience comfortable, budget-friendly stays while connecting with the amazing motorcycle community. So, pack your gear, fire up your engine, and let Bunk-a-Biker help you create an unforgettable road trip!
