I plan on starting around August, so the end of the North American summer.

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Lots of camping in the far south, i.e. Chile and Argentina. If you enjoy camping, you'll want camping gear. Besides, even hostels are expensive in most of the south, and camping can save some serious cash (in case that's a concern). Plus, there are trekking opportunities--you can usually rent gear, but it's easier (and better quality) if you bring your own.

This aside, there've been times from Mexico all the way south when I've rolled into a full hostel but, with camping gear could just pitch a tent.

This doesn't mean you should or shouldn't bring tent, sleeping bag, pad and/or stove, but I think it's worth considering rather than just dismissing the whole idea because "it's not safe" or "there's no place to camp."

Hope that helps.

Mark

(northward bound in Argentina)

August means rainy season for much of Mexico and Cent. America. Have you ever seen tropical rain?

marhharf's points are good. Sometimes hostels are full, too true. But if you've planned well, you'll arrive (somewhere) in DAYLIGHT, with enough time to sort out a place to stay. But of course sh@#t happens and we end up on the road in the dark, miles from our big town destination and end up in some whore house nightmare town. In this case camping may be preferable, so always keep an eye out and make note of possible spots before its dark.

Choices? Drive back out of town and find a suitable camping spot (if still daylight) Or wander aimlessly around town asking in unintelligible Spanish where another hotel/hostel, hospedaje', camping might be.

Or do what I like to do .... hire a Taxi driver to lead me to suitable lodging. Money well spent most times if you bargain well.
Picking random wild camping spots in the dark has its down sides.

If you end up in a really small Aldea or village, ask around to see if someone takes in boarders. Many do. Ask the mayor or priest, they know everything about everyone in a small village or town. Kids will stare, same questions will be asked, but generally these folks will give you the clothes off their back .... and many times they will feed you as well. Don't over pay them, but do offer something. Other times there is simply NO FOOD in the village. NONE. Been there, done that.

But this is why the HUBB is so great. Ask riders here for alternate overnight spots along your route, get Hostel recommendations, places to eat or get food. And don't forget they DO have something called a Telephone down there .... and internet! Make a reservation ahead for your room! What a concept! Call em' up!

Remember, even in medium sized towns they may have a central market (or market day) of some kind. Most markets have restaurants, sometimes many, all grouped together, or around the market area.

So no need to do like the inexperienced do and buy another can of Sardines, Salmon, Spam, Soup or packaged meat or cheese.
(unless you're northern European and this, to you, is gourmet faire!)

Eat real food where the people eat. I am not a fan of cooking or camping or eating out of cans. I do bring my own Tea (while it lasts) and nearly any Cafe/restaurant you find, you can ask for "Agua herviendo" (boiling water) They get this! dice: agua herviendo para Te' por favor. (con azucar y leche, gracias)

Riding through the rainy season is fantastic, I've done it a couple times. All the best fruit will be ripe and plentiful, fewer tourists everywhere, cheaper rates (if you bargain). Mornings are often sunny and nice. Do your riding in Early AM. By noon things can begin to change and rain can come any time in the PM or night, but not always. If a real Tormento tropical comes through, hunker down for a few days to avoid being drowned, as this will blast day and night for a day or three. Go with the flow.

Use your best judgment about camping spots, as noted, sometimes you can save big money camping depending on situation.