It’s not just about the truck, the trip and the equipment! It is important for all parties travelling together to take responsibility for;
• Skills and Knowledge
Prepare yourselves with skills and knowledge to cover all elements of overland travel. Minimise the risks, by building your confidence in dealing with the challenges you will face on the road.
• Roles & Responsibilities
It is equally important for whomever is travelling together, to be a team: where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined and equally distributed to share the activities and avoid conflict. Overland travel is not a holiday!
• Managing personal energy and wellbeing
Hunger, fatigue, hydration and exercise – when neglected will affect our moods and behaviours, that ripples into our relationships. Take responsibility for each others well-being.
• Communication
Clear constructive communication before the journey begins. This manages expectations, likes, dislikes, fears, concerns so it creates understanding and prevents unnecessary conflict. It is important to clear the air. Make time to check in with each other and listen to any concerns and fears. Jointly make the decisions.
Ensure you have the means to communicate in an emergency or at the time when you need help or advice. A satellite phone is not a luxury it is a necessity!
• Navigation
Make sure you have a good understanding on how to use your GPS, have good quality maps and plan your drive times with contingency. In Africa, the Tracks 4 Africa Maps are an excellent resource and give a good guide to drive times!