1. Travel light

You think you're light when you've sacrificed your stove and your waterfilter. You're far from getting there. No change. That's the solution. I don't mean no coins to lighten your pockets, I mean one set of clothes. That's the only way to remain clean. A paradox? Not quite. You'll wash your clothes everyday or so. If you’ve got plenty spare clothes you'll be burdened by a stinking bag and you'll run all day desperately for a laundry. Not the best way to be hosted.

Oh, I forgot: a night set is fine (boxer short and T-shirt) Can't wait naked in front of a dryer! Remember you've got six feet and three bums: you're allowed three underwear and three pairs of socks: one drying, one waiting, one working... in a row.

2. Halve a matress

If you plan to sleep outside just play the Saint Martin game—you know the Roman soldier that cut his coat in two to share one half with a poor because one half of his gear belonged to Rome. If there are two of you, you split. If you're on your own and don't travel in Antarctica, you need a mattress only for your back from shoulders to bum. What's true for your mattress is true for almost everything: toothbrush, pen, razor, ...you must trim, split, and cut. And drop your gear, your junk—whatever is superfluous.

3. Plastic water bottle

Lighter and cheaper than aluminium or titanium fancy tanks. Easier to replace. Transparent to be able to count the sharks spinning in your beverage.

Come on! Admit you’ve got one on your desk, and one by your bedside! Just don't change your habits. Select the most resistant one in your grocery store. It musn't crackle too much under the pressure of your head, because you'll use it in filthy places as a pillow.

4. Wear wool socks

What is cotton? What has it been invented for? What is wool? What is its purpose? Cotton is a steppic scrub bush living in hot and dry places that turn cold and moist at night. The cotton seed is wrapped in fluffy cotton fibers that soak up the moisture. It does the same the with the sweat of your feet. What sucks is the soaked socks: it soon stinks.

Wool is a natural coat that wraps the sheep and fends off the cold, wet, and terrible British weather. Wool does the same for your feet whatever your nationality or species.

5. Wear Hi-Tec Boots

Faculative; it's a matter of necessity! Unlike front-men for other companies, I know what I'm talking about. My wife Sonia and I have proved it!

My exciting relationship with Hi-Tec came about totally by chance, inevitably proving to be the backbone and core strength of our incredible, epic journey. After traveling only 300km our original (not Hi-Tec) footwear proved to be definitely uncomfortable and my wife’s feet were covered in extremely sore blisters. We had to cut the shoes open down both side quarters in order to relieve the discomfort. It was only when we reached the northern part of the Eastern Cape where our host, a Merino sheep farmer, recommended Hi-Tec. When you cover 60,000 steps a day, comfort, cushioning and lightness is extremely important. Hi-Tec proved to be the perfect match!

6. Travel with a purpose

I always remember the famous sentence by Nicolas Bouvier: "You think you're making a journey but thats the journey which makes you". It's slightly obnoxious and blatently hollow.

You musn't become an errand, a vagabond where the wind blows you. The traveller is a sailor that cuts across the wind following a direction, an aim, a purpose. This is that idea that must ignite you. Remember that the world does not necessary need your idleness.

7. Learn languages

Capture the full beauty of your surroundings. There's local flavor, foods, and customs. Language is an art—much more than some tool of utility.

People of all walks of life share and open their hearts to you if you speak their language. You don't want to miss out! The goodness that comes ouf of a person can be more beautiful than a waterfalls and sunrises.

8. Write everyday

Travelling is a piece of art. The masterpiece being your life.

If you can't write, draw. If you can't draw, sing. If you can't sing, dance. Do something memorable as you walk, hike, and play. Take the outdoors and put a part of it inside of you. Add that to your canvas.

9. Set yourself a return date

Respect the choices you've set for yourself.

10. Leave good memories behind you

It’s even better than money. You can share a memory with someone across the globe. It is a souvenir for both of you. You never run out of space in your home. No trinkets and bobbles. Memories bring a smile to your face, and you never have to dust! Try to give happy memories to the people you've lefe behind so they can remember you fondly.