Take Thannassis (Bedouin) with you.

Probably the coolest long distance biker I've ever met.

I'd say make sure your boots are well broken in and some comfy leathers and a decent camp bed - you are either in one or the other.

Oh and a good tent - I learned that lesson

Before the war on terror, if I saw an unattended package I used to think "I'll be having that!"