The call of the open road seems to be so much louder in the summer. Having an adventure with friends on your motorbike might be particularly appealing now, but if you've never been on a motorbike road trip before, there are a few things you might want to consider before you set out.

Once you've got your motorbike breakdown cover sorted out, you need to make sure you have the right equipment with your for the country you are visiting. Many bikers choose camping as their preferred accommodation, since countries like France and Spain have many biker friendly camping sites, and it really lets you get close to nature. Basic items such as a sleeping bag, camping stove, cooking set and motorcycle tool kit – not forgetting the tent itself – will meet most of your needs. Make sure you have a high quality map with you too. Alternatively you might rely on your smart phone for maps, but bear in mind you could run out of power and be left not knowing where you are – it's not always easy to find somewhere to charge up whilst on the road.

Aside from your equipment, you should take some time to research the area you are heading to. There is a certain undeniable excitement as regards not planning your road trip, but the reality is this can cause some seriously stressful situations. For example, arriving in a town late at night and having no idea where the nearest camping site is, or if there is one at all – is not much fun.

In addition, if you properly research where you are going, you won't miss out on any historic or natural attractions in the area. There's nothing worse than coming back from holiday only to discover that you were just a stone's throw from a beautiful old church or a stunning river – having had no idea it was there.

Just a little planning, and your biker road trip is sure to be a memorable one.