I like to start with an easy day, preferably a half day ride.
Dont forget to stop and enjoy the view. Dont over-plan.
When I'm motelling I sometimes book before I set off that day but more usually start looking around in the afternoon. Depends on how full they are. For camping, Ive never booked ahead.
Take a good map and a small compass. Sometimes you run out of North indicators and have to go magnetic.
Stuff to leave? Footwear is the biggest optional load. Ive taken spare hiking shoes on tour. Now I only take walkable sports or cycling shoes. For me, clipless sytems are not a neccessity. Some spare sandals my be handy


I'd like to find the guy who can rebuild a touring bike in 2 hrs. Ive just spent the whole afternoon getting new fenders to work with new wheels and new rear dynamo lamp.