• Water is your friend. Ensure that you stay hydrated and remember that the local water supply is not always safe for human consumption so you generally have to take drinking water with you.• Don’t just drive from point A to B –• Build a network of reliable contacts (locals as well as across the globe) – you never know when you may need help in an emergency.• Take walks and explore on foot. Not only does it keep you fit and healthy, you get to experience nature in a whole different way than through the window of a car.• Bring basic tools (having proper tools to fix your gear or vehicle can be a lifesaver).• Not all people have your best intentions at heart. There are always criminals lurking. Don’t make it easy for them – hide electronics and valuable items (in your vehicle, on you, or around you).• Carry plenty of fuel (always check where the next fuel station is and bear in mind that often pumps in remote areas can run dry).• Share places, things to do and routes with others; in return, they will do the same.• Pack your sense of humour (even the worst situations can be lightened up with laughter).• Don’t just carry a tyre repair kit and spare tyre – learn how to use it and practice how to change a tyre.• Know the area you travel in and study the weather trends and terrain.• When you have a choice, go local. The locals are always thrilled to welcome you and can help you if you get lost, tell you about the best restaurants in town, or share their best-kept secrets for things to do.• Tread lightly and leave only footprints.• If you get stuck, don’t panic. Stop, think and observe your surroundings in order to plan your course of action, then execute your plan.• Have a plan B, and sometimes even a plan C.• Carry copies of important documents and pertinent phone numbers in an e-mail draft in your inbox. It’s easy to find and is a lifesaver in case of emergency.• Always carry your passport on you.• Cash is king – always have some local currency stashed away for emergencies.• Stop and smell the roses and make memories.• Don’t try too hard to get that perfect picture, you might miss the moment.• Have fun!
