I'm a newbie and after 3 weeks and a 1,000 miles, I realized I got pretty much nothing in my Saddlebags. What's in your bag? What essentials should I carry?

Thanks folks.

 

I guess the more you ride the more you will know what right for you.
What I put in mine may not be good for you or some others.
Also, it depends how far I'm going.

 

I'd start with a compact fold out set of allen and torx drivers..a multi screw driver from sears comes with about 10 bits that have multi functions, tie raps a rag some sort of spray cleaner to remove road gunk should you ride over something that you need off the bike asap. Adjustable wrench and a flash light....Tire plug kit.

 

+ 1 on the tools and tire plug kit, and I always have my rain gear with me.

 

Rain gear, proof of insurance, owners manual and most of the time the wifes purse.

 

rain gear if i dont bring it ,it rains.

 

Same here

 

In no particular order (and some of this is in the tour pack, all of it is in organizers).
Basic tools, tire pump and plug kit, tie straps, siphon hose, flashlight, gloves, rain suit, plexus cleaner and microfiber cloth for windshield, suntan lotion, ear plugs, map, pump for air shocks, extra glasses, small stash of cash, camera, comb, hat.
Still leaves plenty of room for groceries.

 

Forgot to mention first aid kit.

 

Welcome - Good set of basic tools - Here is a good site - http://www.cruztools.com/

As you go you will find out what you need or not - That's the fun of it - Enjoy and be safe.