What tools do you like to carry on the bike?

Hello. I'm just wondering what tools if any you would normally carry on the bike, perhaps on a longer or more remote ride.  On the cub, for general running around (say up to ten miles or so) I can manage to carefully pack into the sidepanels a few open-ended spanners, multiblade screwdriver, Hex keys, small pliers and a spark plug wrench together with spare bulbs, fuses, insulating tape and a new spark plug! Perhaps I'm a bit OC, but in a backpack or seatbag I also like to have a can of tyre sealer/inflator just in case.  On longer journeys, I would also carry a spare inner tube, puncture outfit, tyre leavers, bicycle-type compact pump and spanners big enough to take both wheels off.

I know some riders seemingly carry nothing other than a credit card and mobile phone in order to call a tow truck!

You can only carry a limited selection of tools (as you have listed) It always pays to take out an insurance policy that includes breakdown and recovery cover. Most UK insurers will include this in a classic policy. Obviously if you are planning overseas trips you will need to take extra cover, and carry a credit card!

Yes, I have looked into some of these recovery policies quite recently whilst renewing my motorcycle insurance. One leading insurer appeared to be offering a very good recovery deal for just an extra £35 (or monthly payments if you prefer), but when I carefully read the several pages of 'small print' the conditions included the rider paying a £20 'call out charge' plus a mileage charge if you were unfortunate enough to break down more than ten miles from home. They also retained your bank details and would debit the whole lot in advance! In addition, it was entirely at their discretion whether they took you and the bike home or simply dropped you off at the nearest garage/workshop. With garage labour charges typically £50+ per hour, that makes for a very expensive puncture!
Another required a stamped service record for the vehicle (presumably aimed at car drivers who would not know a spark plug from a sink plug) whereas we all know that most motorcyclists traditionally service their own bikes.

So. buyer beware of course!

I am with Peter James and insure two bikes a 1965 250 Greeves and my T80 Townmate for £100 per year. Recovery is included with no restrictions. So give them a call next time your policy is due for renewal https://www.peterjamesinsurance.co.uk/

Thanks, that definitely sounds like a very good deal, I've made a note of it. I usually use MCN's comparison site, which often has some good prices - but check the small print of course - and particularly with 8+ years NCB, but I think it may well pay to shop around a bit further.

I would point out that I have a 'classic bike' policy not sure of the cut off date for that but my T80 is 1991 and is included. Of course terms may be different for modern bikes & premiums more expensive.
I have assumed that you are running a Townmate.