In this part of our guide, we’re covering more essential tips to help you prepare for your challenge. What do you pack? How do you mentally prepare? And how do you make the most of your time before, during, and after the experience? Whether you’re cycling from Niagara Falls to New York City or trekking in Northern India, these tips will ensure you’re ready for the adventure.

Taking on a Dream Challenge is about mental endurance and keeping a positive mindset. Tackling the challenge day by day helps you enjoy the journey as much as achieving the goals.

Stay Positive: We know from over 25 years of experience that almost every challenge has tough moments, whether you’re trekking through Japan Tokyo to Kyoto or cycling through Greece. It’s times like this when you remind yourself why you took on the challenge in the first place; seeing breathtaking landscapes, beautiful new cultures, and sharing the moment with fellow participants has a wonderful effect on keeping you motivated.

Break It Down: Thinking about the whole trek or cycling route can be really daunting. Breaking it down into manageable, bite-sized sections can make a big difference mentally. The whole experience of participation becomes so much more rewarding when you take time to appreciate your surroundings, whether it’s the lush green forests of Southeast Asia or the stunning vistas of Kenya.

Connect Before You Go: For each challenge, we create a dedicated Facebook group where you can connect with fellow participants. It’s a great place to ask questions, share tips, and build excitement before the event. These early connections often lead to lasting friendships, making the experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for advice or just want to share in the build-up, these dedicated Facebook Groups are really useful and help you get to know everyone before your adventure even begins.

Most of All, Have Fun: Yes, challenges can be tough, but they’re also really enjoyable! Whether it’s sharing a laugh with a fellow participant or simply taking in a beautiful sunrise, you will create memories that last a lifetime.

Packing for a challenge can be challenging in its own right. To make sure you have everything you need without overloading yourself—remember, there aren’t many shops where you’re going! Whether you’re cycling through the mountains of Laos or trekking across the Maasai Mara, here are some key items that apply to almost every Dream Challenge.

Clothing: Comfort is a major factor in enjoying your challenge, and layers are your best friend. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are great to keep you cool in the heat and warm in the cool evening. If you’re trekking, a sturdy pair of boots that you’ve already worn in is essential. For cyclists, padded shorts will be a lifesaver after a long day in the saddle.

Gear: Dream Challenges provide bikes for all cycling trips, so no need to worry about bringing your own, but you do need to bring your own cycling helmet! For both trekking and cycling, a comfortable daypack is also crucial. A good quality water bottle will also keep you refreshed on the go.

Essentials: Don’t forget to pack your personal medication, sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Energy snacks are always useful. Also, bring mosquito repellent for areas where it’s needed. Dream Challenge has a qualified medical professional with expedition medicine training on all overseas trips outside of Europe. For peace of mind, all staff hold a valid Level 3 remote outdoor first aid qualification.

And remember, if you’re not sure what to pack, check the specific packing lists on our website, which cater to each individual challenge. They take into account the climate, terrain, and difficulty level of each trip, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.

Before the Challenge: Preparing is more than just physical training. Immerse yourself in the destination’s culture—learn a few phrases in the local language, and read about its history. For example, on the Vietnam to Cambodia Cycle, understanding the culture of each village will make every interaction richer and more meaningful. The challenge is more than just the journey; it’s a cultural experience.

During the Challenge: As you push your limits during the challenge, there will always be time during the day to slow down and be in the moment. Whether you’re trekking through the dramatic landscapes of Kenya or cycling along rice paddies in Laos, pause, breathe, and really experience the beauty around you. Writing a journal or drawing sketches to record these moments in real-time really deepens your enjoyment and connection with the trip, providing lasting memories to revisit once it’s over. And don’t forget your camera!

After the Challenge: Once the challenge is complete, there is nothing quite like the sense of achievement you’ll feel. It stays with you, and by sharing your journal entries, sketches, or photos with friends, family, and future adventurers, you not only relive the adventure but inspire others to take part in their own Dream Challenge.

In the third and final part of this blog series, we’ll explore cultural immersion, offer tips on how to engage with the locals, explore the friendships and trust that develop within your group, and provide ideas for those taking on a challenge to raise money for charity.