Preparing for an APC Rally — Pack Smart, Ride Hard
When it comes to riding the APC Rally, your setup can make or break your experience.
It’s not just about horsepower or tyres — it’s about how you pack your gear.
Every kilo counts. Every strap matters. And when you’re 200 kilometres from the nearest town, your luggage has to be tough, simple, and waterproof — no excuses.
🏕️ Why Luggage Matters
The APC Rally covers thousands of kilometres across Australia’s High Country, coastline, and western outback.
You’ll face long days, river crossings, corrugations, and red dust that finds its way into everything.
If your luggage setup fails — you’re in trouble.
Loose straps, broken clips, or leaking bags can turn an epic day into a nightmare.
That’s why reliable, no-fuss gear is worth its weight in gold.
🧳 What Works — and What Doesn’t
Over the years, John Hudson has seen every type of setup roll up to the start line.
Fancy aluminium boxes, cheap dry bags, homemade panniers — and plenty of broken mounts by Day 2.
What consistently works are soft panniers and roll bags that are:
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Durable enough to survive crashes and corrugations
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Waterproof to handle river crossings and storms
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Simple to fit, remove, and adjust
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Lightweight to keep the bike balanced and responsive
💪 Gear That Stacks Up — Nomad Moto
For the 2025 APC Rally, we’re proud to have Nomad Moto supporting riders with gear that’s been tested in the same harsh conditions this rally is famous for.
Their systems — like the Strzelecki 80L Soft Panniers and Stockman 50L setup — are designed for real-world adventure:
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Built from eco-friendly welded TPU that’s waterproof and impact-resistant
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No racks required — the rackless base fits almost any ADV bike
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Quick strap system for a tight, secure fit that won’t move on rough tracks
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Modular design lets you add roll bags or crash-bar bags easily
As John says, “Nomad Moto gear stacks up — it just works.”
🧭 Packing for Success
Keep your setup light and balanced. The less you carry, the less you’ll break.
Here’s what works best on long rides like the APC Rally:
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Left pannier: Tools, spares, and maintenance gear
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Right pannier: Clothes, toiletries, and camp gear
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Roll bag: Sleeping gear or wet-weather kit
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Tank bag: Phone, snacks, wallet, sunscreen, and charging cable
Pack your pub gear (clean shirt, shorts, thongs) near the top so it’s easy to grab each night.
🌧️ Waterproof Means Worry-Free
One of the biggest mistakes new riders make is trusting gear that says “water-resistant.”
After your first downpour or creek crossing, you’ll learn quickly: waterproof or nothing.
Nomad Moto’s welded seams and roll-top design keep your gear bone dry — no liners, no covers, no nonsense.
🔧 The Real Lesson
The APC Rally isn’t just about endurance — it’s about preparation.
When your gear is sorted, you can focus on what really matters: the ride, the tracks, and the adventure ahead.
So before you hit the start line, check your setup.
If your luggage isn’t tough, simple, and waterproof, you’re already starting behind.
Get Rally-Ready with Nomad Moto
👉 Shop Nomad Moto Adventure Luggage