‘Take maps — they never fail!’

Ian Speight, 57 rides a BMW R1200GS Adventure. 40 years’ experience as police motorcyclist, instructor, ROSPA examiner and tour leader.

Be realistic about your riding. Don’t over-stretch yourself or your pillion; you won’t enjoy it.

Know your documents. Make sure you know which you need physically and which can be stored on your phone.

Don’t just rely on sat navs or phones. Take maps — they never fail!

Take regular breaks. When it’s hot, drink lots of water. And know the emergency phone number for each country.