-- this is the second tour that I have packed my gear into one single pannier, though in both cases I carried panniers for two people. But now I might be starting to understand how bikepackers seem to carry so little.

-- if touring with a rim-brake bike, make sure the pads are not worn out

-- folding bikes are fine in the mountains as long as gearing is appropriate 

-- economy seating in some airlines (LH!!!) is really tight 

-- I love cycle touring 

-- before leaving home, test the trueness of the derailleur hanger for better shifting. It gets bent in transit sometimes.