One or two more things. Might consider buying thorn resistant tubes or heavy duty self sealing tubes, tire liner, and/or puncture resistant tires (probably the best option)...like Specialized Armadillos or Schwalbe Marathon Plus. Although it adds weight, the extra protection may be worth it. Many desert areas are notorious for goathead weeds which will cause a flat.
Here's a short article about goatheads w/pictures:
http://www.socorro.com/fattire/goatheads.html