It’s now the second week of April and I’m itching to get on the road.

About eight or nine guys will leave on the 20th and head to Texas where we will ride down wide highways with sun shining on our backs. I still have a few odds and ends to take care of before departure, like changing oil and figuring out how to mount my iPod on my handlebars. But the bike seems ready and I’m definitely jones-ing for an adventure.

Last week, one of the guys that will be riding with us for the first time e-mailed us request for a checklist of items to take on the trip. I understand his concern. You don’t want to leave on a trip and really need something then discover you left it at home.

Fortunately, motorcycle trip checklists abound on the Internet. Just Google the appropriate search words and a number of good checklists will pop up in the results. Unfortunately, these checklists don’t always include everything. That’s why I have a few essentials that I always take on trips.

1.) Trash bags. The heavier, the better. I always buy some heavy-duty garbage bags to hold stuff or cover my gear when it starts to rain. And, trust me, it will rain.

2.) Extra bungee cords. You can never have enough bungee cords. Besides you’ll need a couple to lash down the heavy-duty trash bags that you just packed. Bungee cords are small and cheap but could save your gear.

3.) Spare keys. Even if you’ve never lost a key, take a spare or two. I actually carry three keys; one I use on the bike and stick in my pocket, another packed away in my bags, and another in one of those magnetic key holders hidden somewhere on the bike.

4.) Zip-lock bags. Remember that rain I warned you about? You’ll need a dry place to keep your cell phone, iPod, wallet and money. Plus, these bags just keep everything together instead of having to divvy up your personal effects in various pockets.

5.) Zip ties. These can be used to hold gear on your bike and even make temporary repairs. Grab an assortment and throw them in your tool bag.

6.) A small flashlight and extra batteries. You never know when you’re going to need to shed light on a situation, whether it’s making repairs after the sun goes down or simply finding your fleabag motel room in the dark.

7.) Extra fuses. Buy some that fit your bike and throw them in your windshield bag. Some bikes have weird fuse configurations and finding them on the road can be a hassle.

8.) Tape, electrical and duct. You never know when you’re going to need to repair a wire or tape something into place.

Well, that’s it. I’ve listed items that are small, lightweight and can be used for a variety of things, including emergencies.

Keep in mind this, though: Sometimes the secret to being well-prepared for a long bike trip is what you leave behind rather than what you pack.

Do you have any other "necessary" items? Hey, e-mail me or respond to this entry and I'll share them.