I have packed my bags twice and run through the checklist twice but, no doubt, I will forget something! But, as long as I have my passport, a credit card, my contacts/ glasses and most of my gear, almost any problem should be solvable. New Zealand is a popular bicycle touring destination so I’m sure they are well equipped to deal with most issues.
I am still learning to use my GoPro, which I am finding quite challenging. As I have discovered, turning on the camera and having it take videos is pretty straightforward. However, I found it much more challenging to get the videos offloaded so that I could do something with them. It’s a bit easier with my laptop, but a bit more challenging with my iPad. But, yesterday I finally cracked the code so I’m making progress. Since the weather is not so good for riding these days, I mounted the GoPro on my dashboard just to get some footage in different resolutions and formats so I could play with an editor. Here is the result – not very exciting but fun!
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Reflecting back on my last long bike tour, I remember how at the end of the day, everyone would scramble to find an outlet to charge phones, cameras, lights, tablets, etc. So, since a truck will be carting our stuff from place to place each day, I invested in a couple of things I would not ordinarily carry. I have a small extension cord designed for international use with multiple plug and USB receptacles! I also have two external battery packs and a small solar panel. The battery packs are primarily to ensure my phone is charged all day since that will be my primary method of navigation!!
Actually on the road in a couple of days on my way to LA where I will catch the plane to Auckland and the beginning of this little adventure. I’ve lost some training due to weather and injuries and I know I’ll suffer a bit for the first week, but then I’ll either be dead or in fine shape for the rest of the trip! :0)