1. It's easy to underestimate how much water you might need while touring. If you are planning on carrying one bottle, double that!

2. Carry enough food, and eat frequently. Your body will need fuel if you are exerting yourself.

3. Even if rain is not in the forecast, bring rain gear. (I ignored this advice for yesterday's five-hour outing. Thunderclouds unexpected rolled in, and we got soaked.

4. If you use sunblock, apply sparingly to your forehead so it doesn't drip into your eyes.

5. Carry clean tissues or paper towels or something similar to help clean up. (See, 4, above!)

6. If your energy starts to flag, take a break. Even five or ten minutes gives tired muscles some much-needed recovery time.