If you’re planning on taking a holiday for an extended period of time, like on an around-the-world tour, deciding on exactly what things you’re going to want and need can be a bit difficult. It’s easy enough packing for short trips, but with a trip that could potentially last months, a little extra thought is almost certainly necessary.

The essential basics

Before we get onto things like what kind of clothes you should take with you, there are some basics to get out of the way first. For starters, you’ll need a sturdy, resilient backpack that will be able to stand a lot of wear and tear yet is easy to haul around. You’ll need your passport, visas and immunization records if necessary, travel insurance, a diary with emergency numbers, extra passport photos and other identity cards.

You should also carry a small travel first-aid kit, ibuprofen, and other painkillers - make sure that you read each country’s list of banned medication before you enter though.

Clothing

This ultimately depends on what kind of world tour you’ll be doing. If you’re backpacking, you’re going to want clothes that you won’t mind getting dirty. Jeans, shorts, a few pairs of t-shirts and lots of underwear will be all that’s necessary in such an instance. If you plan on doing a lot of hitchhiking or trekking, you should probably invest in some cheap sets of multiple t-shirts, too.

Even if you’re hitchhiking, you should still pack some smart evening clothes – a shirt, or an evening dress would be useful.

On the other hand, if you’re going to be treating yourself to a luxurious, all-inclusive cruise trip, you’ll probably want to invest in comfort clothing, and buy more clothes according to your needs as and when you need them along the way.

Other things that will come in handy

Your checklist will ultimately depend on the specific purpose for your travelling, but in general, there are definite items that may come in handy when you’re moving around. You’ll need a camera, of course, and a portable music player of some kind will be useful for those long journeys in between.

If there’s a chance you might get some work along the way, you should also take a few copies of your CV and a job reference letter. A Swiss Army knife will definitely come in handy at some point, as well as a torch. Just don’t overpack – you don’t to return from your trip with a bad back!

Going away on a holiday soon? The key to having a great time is to plan your trip properly, and avoid making the same mistakes that others have made before you. Here are five things that will help you make your travel safer and easier. Learn from other people’s mistakes and don’t repeat them!

This first step is the most important one, and though it might seem obvious, it is crucial to always do some research when you are planning a holiday. This research should not limit itself to the hotels you want to stay in or the restaurants you want to eat at - safety is also a key point: what are the areas that tourists should avoid, where should you go when you bring your children and where is it safe to dine alone?

2. Do not forget to read online reviews from fellow tourists

The one thing that makes travelling in this era so much better than say, ten years ago, is the ability to read opinions and thoughts of people from all around the world on just about any subject. People can exchange tips with each other on travelling forums, and you’ll also find reviews of places at sites like Google Maps. See what others like in the places you’re visiting, and also what they do not like!

3. Do not forget to save emergency numbers to your phone

Safety comes first, so here is another tip regarding your peace of mind: make sure you have the numbers of the police, fire station and hospital saved to your phone and written on a piece of paper to carry with you in case you lose your phone. Hopefully, nothing will happen, but if it does you should be able to reach the local authorities with ease.

4. Do not underestimate your financial planning

Always set some money aside in case of emergency. If, for example, you like lose your luggage or passport, you want to have enough money on you to get back home safely. Bearing this in mind, you can make some easy extra money for your trip before you go at www.musicmagpie.com.

5. Do not get tricked!

If you book anything online, check with a travel agency you trust whether the hotels you are planning to stay at and other services you want to book are, in fact, real. Anyone can set up a pretty site and pretend they offer a service, which, in reality, is non-existent. Don’t fall for this and only pay money beforehand to places you know you can trust.

Check out the first glimpse of the new Super C Motorhomes from Thor Motor Coach, with the introduction of the new 33SW. This new Super C RV model will be available in the already best selling Four Winds and Chateau Class C Motorhome brands, adding to the much needed market for “powerful” diesel powered class C motorhome.

The 33SW Super C’s are powered by a Ford F-550 chassis with a GVWR and top out at 19,500-lbs. The most advance diesel engine in its class pumps out 300-hp and 660-lb.ft of torque from Ford’s fuel sipping 6.7L PowerStroke. And with plenty of power and Ford’s tough 6-speed transmission these motorhomes are capable of towing up to 10,000.

These Super C’s are easy to drive and Ford's F-550 Super Duty platform offers it owners the benefit of both commercial strength and durability as well as a luxurious automotive cabin and superb ride quality. We look forward to seeing these on the road.

Pristine beaches line the coast of this piece of heaven on earth and you don't need to break the bank to succumb to its many wonders. Beach and ocean enthusiasts, scuba divers, honeymooners and anyone seeking serenity in the arms of a magnificent ocean will find this chain of coral islands in the Indian Ocean a perfect destination.

Whether you are inclined to the more upscale or the rustic and local, the Maldives has a wide variety of resorts for a peaceful holiday experienced unmatched anywhere else.

Embudu Village

Located in the village of Embudu, this "last paradise on earth", offers easy access from the airport of Hulule and is surrounded by the purest of the blue seas, spectacular views and snorkelling in the reef teeming with fish and marine life. With 16 water bungalows and 106 superior rooms to choose from, all of which are comfortably appointed with amenities such as a mini-fridge, tea and coffee maker, air-conditioning, you can rest assured you will find one that's right for you. The water bungalows also feature a satellite television and a bath tube with jacuzzi. All meals are served on-site in the resort's restaurant.

Kuramathi Island Resort

Kuramathi captures the azure beauty of its surroundings in its spa resort and is a great choice for families. It offers a kids' club, Bageecha, that engages children in pirate play and several activities throughout the week. Beach and pool events, barbecue, a kitchen for them to dine in with their captain and crew members, and a host of daily activities keep the younger members of your family well-entertained and cared for.

In addition, this island resort features a library and a medical centre equipped with modern diagnostic devices and the capability to handle various medical needs.

The accommodation ranges from garden villas to superior and deluxe beach villas and water villas. Rain showers and herbal essence steam baths relieve and renew body and soul at the relaxing spa set amid abundant foliage and overlooking the shimmering ocean.

Delicious cuisine prepared from fresh ingredients, extensive wine selection and plenty of aqua sports make this resort a very appealing destination.

Batuta Maldives

If small, personal and local is more to your taste, a guesthouse such as Batuta Maldives Surf View may be the right choice for you. Located on North Male atoll, this guesthouse has just 5 rooms, clean and simply furnished, free wi-fi, and a rustic atmosphere. Surfing is a native sport here on this little island and the food served is an authentic experience of native Maldivian flavours.

Summer Villa Maldives

Situated on South Male atoll, the Summer Villa Guesthouse is friendly and locally operated, and at an unbeatable price. With 6 rooms to choose from, all of which are equipped with a mini-bar, you can enjoy the beauty of the ocean and a variety of boating and sailing activities, which can be arranged at the resort.

Photo credited to Milli Marshall.

Thor recently came out with these new 37MD Outlaw Toy Haulers earlier this year. The new 37MD Outlaw Toy Hauler model boasts even more storage and sleeping capacity along with the most flexible hauling options in this very popular toy hauling Class A RV.

Other cool features include an exterior fueling station can be used to fill-up ATV’s and
dirt bikes, while outside entertainment options include garage radio controls, wall mounted marine grade speakers and a 32” LCD TV located under the patio awning.

The full details on all Outlaw brand toy haulers can be found here.

Our friends at Thor, North America’s most chosen motorhome brand, have released 2 New Diesel Super C Motorhomes. The 33SW F550 Super C Motorhomes are both “Heavy Duty” diesel powered Ford F-550 Super Duty class C motorhomes and will be available in both the Four Winds and Chateau brands.

The 33SW motorhomes have a GVWR topping out at 19,500-lbs thanks to a Ford F-550 chassis and lots of power via a PowerStroke™ 6.7L diesel engine flexing a full 300-hp, and hefty 660-lb.ft, of torque. A 10,000-lb. trailer hitch will be no problem for the 33SW to maximize thanks to that combo plus a Ford 6-speed transmission The coach comes standard with an electronic brake controller integrated into the dash, so consumers simply get in and go.

“We are confident these new Super C’s will turn heads with the additional living space created using the Ford F550 super duty chassis. Features like diesel power, more maneuverability, increased towing capability and better driving comfort are what our customers tell us is missing from the larger Class C RV market”, remarked Joel Grimm, National Sales Manager for gas motorhomes at Thor Motor Coach.

The Quadski Amphibious Jet Ski does "45mph on land and water and Four seconds in between" which is quite a cool statement and could finally put your 007 fantasies to rest. Released next month, the Quadski Amphibious Jet Ski rocks a high performance BMW engine, a smooth suspension system and wheel retraction at the touch of a button (without the annoying cheap airline noises).

While the first offering of these toys are being assembled at a production facility in Auburn Hills, MI. Gibbs Sports, Amphibians Inc is developing additional sports amphibians at development facilities in Auburn Hills, and Auckland, New Zealand. You're looking at a cool $40,000 for one of these.

Offcourse, if you can't afford $40,000 you can always get a Yamaha SuperJet 2011 or something like it. Just not land. Sorry.

Via Cool Material

Besportier Brazil

Most consumers are unlikely to associate the words "van" and "luxury" with one another, but the truth is that these things aren't as mutually exclusive as many might think. In fact, a burgeoning industry for custom-designed vans is giving customers access to a number of great new features that can help to entertain family members on a long trip, keep them comfortable even for short drives, and redefine exactly what a van is, in terms of its comfort and appeal to a broad section of buyers.

Custom Vans Can Become Mobile Entertainment Powerhouses

In recent years, custom vans have been given a serious entertainment upgrade, with many models coming with their own built-in DVD or Blu-Ray players. Combined with the ability to sync mobile phones and pair mobile tablets with these vehicles via Bluetooth, there's no limit to the entertainment choices available to passengers of all ages.

But custom vans take things a bit further. These refined vehicles can be customized so that each headrest is turned into a mobile LCD television screen, displaying content from a centralized unit located either in the roof of the vehicle or in the center console area where the stereo and other controls are located. This allows the van to become a personal entertainment experiences for passengers of all ages, even on longer trips that might otherwise test their patience and endurance.

Seats Can Enjoy a Serious Upgrade in Custom Vans

Consumers typically associate van seating options with either plush fabric or leather options, but that's not where the choices end with a custom van. Instead of merely settling for cloth seating, leather options, or vinyl coverings, customers can choose higher-grade leather that is both more comfortable to sit and more endurable to work with over the life of a vehicle. And the type of covering applied to the seat isn't the only area where custom vans step luxury up a few notches.

Van seats are notoriously inconvenient, prompting people to climb all over them and risk their safety in the process. With a custom van, this requirement is removed. Buyers can choose to install middle seats into the van that actual swivel on an axis, thereby removing the need to creatively climb all over seats when attempting to reach passengers in the rear of the vehicle. It's a commitment to convenience and refinement that simply cannot be found in factory models, and it's one of the leading ways that custom vans are helping to redefine both the market segment and the term "luxury" itself.

Block Out the Sun with Mini-blinds

One thing that characterizes virtually every van is that natural sunlight can easily deter from the built-in entertainment options available. It can also ruin the naps that help younger passengers survive longer road trips throughout the day. This is a problem for typical vans, but not for those that have been expertly customized.

Instead of relying on mere window tint to keep out the suns brightest and harshest rays on long trips, customized vans can actually feature retractable mini-blinds that block the sun out entirely. Best of all, they'll only be installed on the windows that won't negatively impact the visibility of the road when someone is piloting the vehicle. That commitment to safety and comfort is a hallmark of the van niche itself, and both drivers and passengers will be relieved when they can enjoy a sun-free, high-safety trip.

Custom Vans are the Very Definition of Luxury

There's no need to settle for the vans that roll off of factory assembly lines any longer. Custom options allow consumers to enjoy robust entertainment options, highly comfortable and convenient seating, and even home comforts like mini-blinds that increase the safety and enjoy ability of a typical road trip.

About the Author
Blake Arbogast is a custom van enthusiast and blogger who loves all things design and technology. He is also the ecommerce director of GMCconversionvans.com which shares information about the van industry.

The new Thor ACE Motorhome for 2013 is a luxurious castle on wheels. What does ACE mean you ask? Well these Thor ACE Motorhomes "combine the best features and family friendliness of the easy to drive Class C Motorhomes with the space and convenience of a Class A Motorhome."

And since many buyers can no longer afford or will pay high prices for over-accessorized Class A coaches, more consumers are now looking for basic models that contain the essential performance and residential features needed for comfortable, efficient RVing that are now within budget.

Cool features of the Thor ACE Motorhome 2013 include the dedicated exterior compartment which can accept more than four batteries, depending on size, the large rear pass-through storage bay that boasts 85 cubic feet of space and pet-friendly features including a retractable kibble station, curbside front window for exterior viewing, and scratch-resistant vinyl floor covering. Check out the site here.

If you thought biking long distances was hard enough, a QTvan Mini Bicycle Caravan like this one will insure you get a good work out! And while most cyclists sleep out of a smartly packed pack, you'll be able to show them a thing or two with this fully-equipped QTvan Mini Bicycle Caravan that comes with a full-sized single bed, 19” television, drinks cabinet and tea-making equipment. And offcourse if you're rockin an electric bike it'll be smoother sailing.

Here’s an article on how to lower RV expenses on a budget and especially in this economy. In this how to lower RV expenses guide we’ll discuss how to lower RV park expenses, driving (gas) expenses, RVing on the cheap, and all around tips to keep your trip fun without worrying about breaking the bank.

Every year thousands of people RV many miles and enjoy their vacation with the family. But the current rise in gas prices creates a lot of anxiety in RV vacationers. Everyone seems to be complaining about the huge RV expenses causing them to abandon their summer vacation. Numerous approaches can be adapted to minimize the extensive RV costs in order to fully enjoy your summer vacation...

The most important tip to minimize your camping costs as they directly affect expenses is try to find boon docking (free camping) sites or choose campgrounds since they charge less. Use the trailer guide or Woodall's to go through camp grounds around the place you are planning to visit. If you can’t find a boon docking site, become a member of a campground chain. These chains are great for Rvers that travel a lot or even live on the road. Membership parks charge less and offer more amenities compared to places like Public, State, KOA & Good Sam Parks. Here’s a great site that shows the savings of membership clubs. Camping clubs also offer many good deals at cheaper rates. Another helpful tip especially for big time travelers is to get a lot of state camping permits. These permits cost only a few dollars and come with many incentives. You could also go for camp hosting as it combines the incentive of many constructive activities along with free camp site. Go through the caretaker Gazette as there are many opportunities there to take care of people's property (even gardens and pets) in exchange for a free camping site.

As far as your RV, if you’re just a seasonal traveler, a good option is to go for a rentals RV or ask your friend or relative to rent theirs rather than going through a professional rental service. This can save you some major dollars. Also, make sure to keep up with automobile maintenance. Always get a complete inspection of the automobile so that there aren’t any issues during traveling. Don’t make quick stops or land rover starts since this kind of driving consumes more gas. Limiting your speed to 55 mph will give you optimal mileage with less gas consumption. Get the echo friendly energy saver LED/ CFL lights which last longer and consume less energy. Use the free energy saver and install a turbine system that uses solar or wind energy and saves a lot on energy charges. Shop at big outlet stores like Sams Club to get bulk prices. Utilize the RV kitchen rather than going out to some expensive restaurant. Shop smartly and select multitasking products which create less mess. Try to purchase food items in bulk and pack them by yourself.

These simple actions will definitely lower your trip costs and add a lot to your budget. So if you’re thinking about canceling your trip over the costs, you’ve got to realize that by just being more innovative you can still go. If you forget your old habits and adopt the new smart ones that is…

All images are here under the Attribution License

Here are some ways to find inexpensive toy haulers because we don't have to tell you that gas prices are high, jobs are scarce, and bubba still needs a college education. We've scanned the web and all other possible sources for the best ways to find these inexpensive toy haulers so you don't have to. We still use the word "inexpensive" with these toy haulers and not "cheap" since the below sources should result in quality yet affordable finds.

One option you have is going with an online retailer like Dunesport.com and totally customizing your toy hauler so you know where every penny is going. These guys only specialize in Toy Haulers and have been for 15 years so you know you're going to get a good product. They range from their under $10,000 one-of-a-kind "mini" 12' toy hauler which comes with a full bathroom and kitchen, to fully-customizable 40' fifth wheels. They also cater to customers in wheelchairs. They've shipped their products as far as Canada and Australia and have their own shipping company which allows your toy hauler to be shipped directly to your home at the lowest possible rate.

The next option you have is to check your local Craigslist listings as well as the local newspaper classifieds. You'll have to filter through all the spam off course, but this is a great way to find a hauler near you.

Government auctions are a great alternative for finding toy haulers at the best price. These are units that have been repossessed, seized, or are simply surplus. You may have to look through some shady merchandise before you find your golden egg, but this is a great way to get a good deal.

Another last resort option if you've got the time is RV Shows. These shows often include motorhomes that are for sale by owner and 9 times out of 10 a private owner is going to give you a better price than a dealer. But be sure you're ready to buy, because these people mean business. These shows are also a great way to see a a lot more than just toy haulers including motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers,pop up trailers, and truck campers in one place. Plus many of these recreational vehicles will be available for purchase at special "show prices."

We found a complete list of RV Shows here. Make sure to check the dates since they can get have been canceled or changed.

Good Luck on your search!

Mountain bike car racks like this Kuat Sherpa 2 Bike Rack get up to 2 bikes to the mountain easily, efficiently, and safely. These mountain bike car racks easily secure two bikes weighing up to 40 pounds each and are compatible with two-inch and 1.25-inch receivers (hitches) thanks to the one-sized-fits-all attachment. Though the Kuat Sherpa 2 Bike Rack isn't Not suited for DH or freeride bikes, it fits almost all other bikes with 20-29in wheels and up to a 44.5-inch wheelbase. Also cool is how the Sherpa 2 provides an ample 13 inches of space between bikes to eliminate bike-on-bike violence during the drive, heat-treated aluminum chassis withstands road abuse, folds up for storage, and tilts downward for access to your vehicle's trunk. Other features include a front and rear tire ratchets that use an easy hand-tight cam system and frame supports to eliminate movement, and Hitch lock and an integrated cable lock for security. You can buy this Kuat Sherpa 2 Bike Rack for a price of $429.

Yakima HighRoller Bike Rack

StowAway Swingaway Bike Gear Rack

You can achieve efficient car top roof rack kayak storage with a Yakima HullRaiser w/Tie Downs which which holds touring, whitewater, or recreational kayaks with equal security. This car top roof rack kayak storage is easy to load, securely holds your boat, and won’t take up all your roof space. Yakima made the Yakima HullRaiser w/Tie Downs with dual J-bars and heavy-duty buckles ample padding so your boat rides snugly without damage from sharp metal. If you're trying to decide between the HullRaiser and the HullRaiser Aero ($119.20) it's easy... The Aero fits factory bars while the standard HullRaiser fits only Yakima-branded square or round bar setups. You can buy this Yakima HullRaiser w/Tie Downs for a price of $95.20.

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Automobile bicycle racks like this Yakima Hold Up Bike Rack w/ Lock Cable are a easy solution to hauling one or two bikes with you on your way to the race, trail or mountain. These automobile bicycle racks allow for fast, easy, low-effort loading of one or two bicycles with the StrongArm bracket which securely holds bike of virtually any size without contacting the bike frame and comes with the LockUp to secure the bikes to your rack so you can leave the car without worry. The Yakima Hold Up Bike Rack w/ Lock Cable also has an integrated bottle opener so you can pop a cold beer after the ride. That was thoughtful of them! The rack fits bikes with 14-29in wheel diameters. You can buy this Yakima Hold Up Bike Rack for a price of $319.20.

Yakima HighRoller Bike Rack

Hollywood Racks E3 Express 3-Bike Trunk Mount Rack