- Used a trailer. I hated it on my pre-tour test rides I felt like it handled poorly and was dangerous, but I didn't want to pay for a real tour bike until I was sure I liked touring. One week into the tour it flipped me off the bike and almost knocked my brains out. I should have payed attention to what I already knew.

- Waited to eat/rest/adjust clothing for "the perfect spot" - I finally learned to eat/rest when needed because if you wait for the perfect spot you might have bonked already.

- Ended the tour because my partner had to go home - I later learned that touring solo is just fine, sometimes even better than touring with someone.