Man and Bike Adventures

The Aussie swag has been around since the 1800s and got its name from the ‘Swagman’. Who, back in the day, would carry their swags rolled up with all their belongings as they’d roam the country looking for work.

A typical swag you see sold in shops today is quite different from the original incarnation which usually consisted of a blanket rolled up in tarpaulin that the swagman used as a groundsheet.

Swags certainly have their place when it comes to motorcycle camping or touring. Brands like OzTrail have produced a Biker Swag, which I have owned for quite a few years and here’s what I think some of the pros and cons are of using a swag.

It is an all-in-one sleep system
Quite literally all you need to do with your swag is throw everything you’re taking on the trip inside the swag. Such as your bedding, a bottle of whisky, spare clothes and then roll it up and strap it to your bike.

That’s all there is to it. You are now a modern-day motorised swagman or swagwoman.

Nothing is easier to set up or pack up.
Simplicity is the swags strong point. Once you’ve arrived at the camp, undo the straps and unroll your swag.

Open your bottle of whisky and celebrate. It’s that simple.

The best use of a swag
Usually, after you’ve spent the past 600-700kms riding to some pub in the scrub and worked up quite a thirst and all you want to do is find a perch at the bar. Fast forward 8 hours after some solid drinking and banter with the locals as you stumble out to your bike, grab the swag and roll it out on the nearest patch of grass you can find.

You’ll thank yourself for not bringing a tent. I know I did.

Anytime you want a simple, reliable camp set-up you should take a swag. That’s why they are so popular.

The downside.
They’re big and bulky, which means they may not be suitable for all types of riding. Such as on the back of a DR650 and riding singletracks. Or, when it rains, and there’s no other shelter. You either get wet or climb into the swag and enjoy your own company.

Getting dressed in a swag is also tricky, so get used to stripping down in the outdoors, this also sucks when raining.

In summary, swags are great unless it’s raining or you’re riding single tracks. If you’re undecided about which swag is right for you, check out the range at Anaconda

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