First time out i figured in rest days. What happened is I ended up resting on a beautiful riding day and riding the next day in heat or rain. Then I figured out my body would tell me when it was time for a rest. Some times ?i would camp and for an extra day or 2 get some extra sleep and visit the local town and just hang out. other times I might just work on the bike and sleep a lot. it was always different in each situation.