Long distance travel by motorcycle

[bluepolaski]

This summer I have a trip planned with a friend and I to venture cross-country by motorcycle. The route will takes us through NY to Chicago, across the midwest, to Portland Oregon, and finally San Fransisco. The shooting back to Boston on the straightest route.

We don't have a lot of money, our funds combined total a few thousand dollars, and therefore we plan to spend the majority of our nights camping. We plan on traveling as lightly as possible, only as much as can safely fit on our bikes.

I wanted to ask any seasoned travelers here at TFP for tips. Where are the best areas to make camp? Should I bring a weapon for defense (I have faith people in the Midwest are pretty nice folk)? What are some of the ESSENTIAL items I need (other than obvious things like food and toiletries)? Any scenic byways I should pass through? State Parks? Everything, if you've traveled across a continent or other long distance multiple-day journey, I'd like to heed any advice you might have.