Keeping notes of the trips is something I've done pretty much from the start. Part of this is because I want a record for myself, but at the end of each tour, I will also analyze what I could do to improve things for the next time. If there were things I packed but didn't need, I'll know I can leave them at home next time. Likewise, if I needed something I didn't have, I'll make a note of it. If my speed and distance were both down considerably, I'll look at why that happened.

We all start somewhere when we're touring, but on a long tour, it's good to have some preparation.