Are we ready?

[NAMSA]

We(girlfriend and I) are setting off on a 6 month trip next week down the East Coast of Africa.

What I want to do, is to create a sort of a checklist, for myself, but also something that can be of benefit to other newbies. I would greatly appreciate it if the more experienced travelers can chip in with ideas of what I am missing.

Money- We've budgeted around 4000 pounds each. We also have two Credit Cards, one Master and Visa.

The Bike - 1997 Honda Transalp, recently serviced. Standard modifications, including Hagon back suspension since we are two up. 12v connection. New tyres.

Spares - Minimal since I am not the most mechanically minded. Everything needed to fix flats and service the bike. Extra inner tubes, Tyre Weld, spare fuses, spare lamps/bulbs, cables.!

Tools - Again, minimal! Spanners, socket set, 12v compressor, tyre levers, screw drivers, allen keys, valve tool, Leatherman, cable ties, bungee ropes,

Paperwork - Passports, valid for a few years with enough empty pages. Also visas for three countries that are valid for six months. Carnet. International Drivers Permit. Vaccination booklet with all required stamps, plus more! Vehicle registration document. Passport photos. Loads of copies of the above!

Equipment - Tent, sleeping bag, stove, cooking set, 10l water carrier, travel towels, hydra pack, mobile phone, 12v phone and battery charger, 5l petrol can,

Medicine - All vaccinations, Larium anti-malarial(under trial), enough bandages, plasters, medicine for upset stomachs, headaches, fever etc.

Itenary - Fairly detailed without being rigid. We are more or less aware of the tough roads, fuel availability issues and where to allow more time for visa applications, border crossings etc. We also have a list of accommodations and repair shops for most of the way, where available. Maps.

Is there something glaringly obvious that I am missing, or are we more or less good to go?

Namsa.

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