Try and hook up with a team if you can, it'll make it a lot easier to get through the week than if you use RAGBRAI's bag transport. If you like drinking, start later. If not, start earlier. Some days, you might even find a free beer tent in a farmer's front yard. Weather can run from the 40s in the morning to the 90s in the afternoon, so pack accordingly. There's usually at least one day with heavy rain, excessive heat or high headwinds to keep it interesting.