When you depart on a bike that will need work soon, you will probably have problems sooner rather than later. If you go through the bike thoroughly before departure (or have this done by someone who is knowledgeable), making sure everything is in optimal condition, you can probably go a lot farther without maintenance. It is good to start out on a bike like this.

Some components last a lot longer than others. It's best to choose reliable, durable, low-maintenance components. Example: a cheap KMC chain will need replacing long before a good Sachs chain. I have found that the latter outlasts the former by a factor of about four.

Measuring and monitoring chain wear (sometimes called chain stretch) is helpful. It can save a lot of expense and trouble down the road. Replace early rather than late. When there is 1/8" of wear (or stretch) per foot of chain, you have reached the usually recommended replacement time. Some people do it sooner. It's best not to do it later.