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Bicycle AfricaPre-departure Checklist For Travelers |
Click here for printer-friendly PDF version.
90 Days Before You Go
__ Begin training rides.
__ Look through pre-departure packet and flag the key sections.
__ Make airline reservations.
__ Apply for a passport, if you don't have one:
__ Go to the bibliography, library or bookstore and get books on your destination.
60 Days Before You Go
__ Select the bike you will be using for the trip.
__ Send the balance due on your program.
__ Buy any bike equipment you don't have (bike, helmet, rack, panniers, pump, tools,
water bottles, gloves, etc.).
__ Apply for visas (if necessary - see the notes on
preparing for your trip) Note: Visas often have limited validity so don't apply
more than 90 days before you'll enter the county.
__ Continue your training rides.
45 Days Before You Go
__ Begin getting vaccinations (if necessary - see the notes on preparing for your trip).
__ Buy an extra pair of glasses or contacts and get a copy of your prescription.
__ Make sure that you have the medical and
travel insurance that you want.
__ Arrange for an absentee ballot if there will be an election during your trip.
__ Continue your training rides, carrying lightly weighted panniers.
30 Days Before You Go
__ Purchase your airplane ticket, and trip cancellation / medical insurance, if you
haven't already.
__ Make final purchase of clothing.
__ Make final purchase of photographic supplies: film, data card, etc.
__ Complete all repairs and maintenance, including lubrication, done on your bike.
__ Continue your training rides, carrying lightly weighted panniers, building up the
distance and looking for more challenging terrain.
15 Day Before You Go
__ Make final purchase of all equipment for the trip.
__ For long trips, make arrangements for paying any month bills coming due during your
absence.
__ Be certain you've used all your equipment and know how it works.
__ Give a copy of you itinerary to relatives or friends. Leave information about your
lawyer, insurance, safe, house & auto keys, etc.
__ Continue your training, try to do at least one "shakedown" trip with a
fully loaded bike. It is better to discover and take care of problems before your
program begins.
7 Days Before You Go
__ Pack your bike, clothing and equipment, including itinerary and maps - see
the notes on preparing for your trip.
__ Buy traveler's checks.
__ Fill medical prescriptions to last longer than your trip.
__ Cancel your newspaper delivery.
__ Change mail delivery or have mail held at the post office.
__ Arrange for acceptance of non-cancelable deliveries, lawn, garden and pet care (or
snow removal).
__ Start emptying your refrigerator, storing valuables, turning down thermostats and
water heaters, etc.
Bon Voyage!
