Travel Insurance Most insurers do not provide travel insurance for overlanding on a motorcycle. Few companies also cover tourist visits to Iran and Pakistan. Carole Nash insurance offer a comprehensive motorcycle travel package that is just the ticket and only costs about the same as regular worldwide travel insurance without motorcycling. They even fly your panniers, leathers and helmet home in the case of a serious accident. Contact: Carole Nash website Tel: 0800 804 7952
Carnet De Passage It's not only the rider that needs a passport; for some countries the bike needs one too! To temporarily import my motorcycle into Iran, Pakistan and India without paying hefty duties I will need a carnet. The RAC will arrange this document for me. In summary, I pay a fee, a deposit and an insurance premium to guarantee I will not sell the bike whilst travelling. 100% of the deposit and 50% of the insurance will be refunded on my return with documentation intact. The RAC's UK telephone support line have been very helpful. Contact: Tel: (00 44) 01454 208000
Bike Insurance 'How do they do it?' is the question I ask myself every year I renew my bike insurance with Carole Nash. Fully comprehensive cover, including take-you-home breakdown recovery from anywhere in Europe, for 2 classic bikes costs just £140 per year.  I have never found anything better! Contact: Carole Nash website Tel: 0800 804 7952
Hostelling International One of the best travel bargains ever is access to Hostelling International accommodation. You join your own country's Youth Hostel Association (in the UK that costs a paltry £15.95 per annum) and you automatically can stay at more than 4000 youth hostels in 80 countries. Members can be of any age and prices are more than reasonable, especially in city centres. Youth hostels have come a long way; they're no longer basic and only for the real outdoors type. They're also a great place to meet people. I'll certainly be staying in some on my way across Europe. Contact: YHA UK website Hostelling International website
Travel Guides I use the Lonely Planet range of guides to help with trip planning. One of my concerns for the journey is finding somewhere safe to park my bike at night. Having a list of a few hotels at each anticipated stop really makes a difference. I bought several guides for this trip from travel_food_and_style who sell on amazon.co.uk. Their prices and service are exceptional.