I've done a number of multi-week trips, camping most nights. Here's a quick summary of my travel kit:
1 pair of armored riding pants, 1 armored riding jacket (jacket and pants are both waterproof), Gerbings electric liner, 1 pair riding boots (Daytona as well...great boots), 2 pair riding gloves (a light pair and 1 pair of electric heated that plug into the Gerbings liner), 2 pair riding socks (wash one, wear one), 1 pair of sandals (I like the Tevas with the protection over your toes...popular with whitewater guides). Personal clothing includes: 3 pairs Exofficio synthetic boxers (wash, dry quickly), 2 synthetic short sleeve t-shirts,1 synthetic long sleeve t-shirt, 1 pair camping pants (the kind with zip off legs so they double as shorts), 1 fleece, 1 down, puffy jacket (down packs really small), 1 stocking cap, 1 rain hat, toiletry kit.
All of thie personal stuff easily fits into one of the saddlebags of my RT. The other saddlebag carries all of my food and camp cooking items. Tools and extra riding gear (i.e. gloves I'm not wearing, Gerbings liner, cooling vest) go into the top case. My small tool roll is very basic, so it doesn't take much room and isn't heavy. I carry camping gear in a waterproof bag that is strapped to the pillion seat (includes small axe, camping saw, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camp light, etc.)
In late August, I and two friends are planning to ride a portion of the Continental Divide route, so my kit will probably be even smaller to fit my Honda CRF250L Rally. We can always live with a lot less than we think!
Have a great trip with your son!
Have you been through my closet? Yes, heated gear covers a world of layers! You even saw my two pair of riding socks, and riding underwear?? My summer 3 BMW pants are both armoured AND zip off legs. I think your list nails a sane outline for me. The summer 3 BMW pants are both armoured AND have zip off legs. Those and either a light rain overpant or the ADV aerostitch pants should do the trick.. Funny I didn't get all analytic last few trips- through much more variable conditions- last year we did snowed rockies to Utah desert and everything in between- another year Nova Scotia, maine, Cape Breton- no problem. The expression "making a mountain out of a molehill" comes to mind. Thanks for your keep it simple response.