A story about traveling that is likely to have happened!

The roar of my Triumph Tiger 1200 echoed through the winding roads of Guatemala’s highlands, the scent of fresh coffee cherries thick in the humid air. This was no ordinary ride—this was a mission. My goal? To explore the heart of coffee country, from the volcanic farms of Antigua, Guatemala, to the misty cloud forests of Costa Rica, all while proving that traditional luggage has no place on an adventure like this.  

Why You Don’t Bring a Suitcase to a Coffee Expedition  

From the moment I hit the dirt trails leading to my first stop—a family-run coffee farm outside of Huehuetenango—it was clear that rolling suitcases and duffel bags weren’t going to cut it. The uneven terrain was ruthless, and every bump threatened to send poorly packed gear flying. That’s why I relied on my Viking Bags ADV Touring Hard Cases. With their sturdy aluminum construction, stainless steel rivets, and reinforced fiberglass clips, they laughed in the face of mud, rain, and the occasional stray rock kicked up by my rear tire.  

The bolt-on installation kept my gear secure, and since these Hard cases maintain a low center of gravity, my bike handled the steep mountain switchbacks without a hitch. That balance was crucial—especially when a particularly ambitious goat decided to claim the road outside a cooperative in Cobán. (Spoiler: The goat won.)  

Through the Jungles & Volcanoes of Costa Rica 

Crossing into Costa Rica, the adventure took on a new level of intensity. The rainforests were alive with the sounds of howler monkeys, and the muddy trails leading to small, remote coffee farms were a test of endurance. This is where I truly appreciated the weather-resistant design of my side cases. A torrential downpour? No problem. River crossings? Bring it on. Even after a near wipeout on a slippery, vine-covered trail, my gear—camera, spare clothes, and, most importantly, bags of freshly roasted coffee—stayed bone dry.  

Costa Rica’s coffee farms, tucked into the slopes of active volcanoes, were breathtaking. Here, I met farmers experimenting with **anaerobic fermentation**, a process that creates some of the most unique and vibrant coffee flavors in the world. Each stop reinforced why traveling light and smart is essential—every extra pound, every poorly packed bag, makes a difference when you're riding through unpredictable terrain.  

Adventure is in the Details

By the time I reached my final destination, a tiny café in the hills of Tarrazú, I had a newfound respect for smart packing. A bulky suitcase would have been a nightmare; a flimsy backpack would have been destroyed. But my Viking ADV cases? They had survived everything—the heat, the rain, the off-road abuse, and even an unexpected roadside tamale feast that led to an impromptu campout under the stars.  

If you’re heading to the heart of coffee country (or any true adventure), forget the rolling suitcase. Invest in gear that can handle the wild ride. Because out here, in the land of legendary coffee and untamed roads, the right pack isn’t just convenient—it’s survival.  

Ready to Ride?  
Check out the Viking Bags ADV Touring Hard Cases and gear up for your next big adventure. Because when the road calls, you answer—preferably with a freshly brewed cup of single-origin coffee in hand. ☕🏍️