Temperature control. My body doesn't regulate temperature in the normal ways (sweating, shivering etc), and overheating or getting too cold is not only uncomfortable but dangerous. To stay warm is easy - double layers of warm clothing. Staying cool is also not impossible - use a plant spray bottle (found in garden centres) and regularly drench your head, face, arms and legs. Sweat replacement that doesn't smell!

Pressure sores. You won't be in your own bed and you'll be travelling in different vehicles. Look after your skin! Use your pressure-relieving cushion as much as possible in cars and don't stay in places where you don't trust the mattress. I take an inflatable 'Thermarest' which, if only half inflated, provides a comfortable base on a bad mattress. It's possible to buy pressure-relieving blow-up mattresses though these can be heavy and expensive.

Eating and drinking. Different bugs live in different climates. Your body will have no natural resistance to tropical bacteria, but if you're careful, it's possible to avoid illness. Eat freshly cooked food only. Only eat fresh fruits and salads when you know they've been washed in clean water. Drink a lot of water (sterilised or bottled) or beer! Be sensible and certainly don't eat or drink less, this will only lead to illness and dehydration.

Vaccinations and medication. Speak to your doctor before leaving home. Find out exactly what's recommended for the country(s) you're going to and take it all!

Malaria. It kills. Take the medication your doctor has recommended and avoid getting bitten. Use DEET impregnated mosquito nets and cover up, hiding exposed wrists, ankles, feet etc after dusk and before dawn.

Hospitals. Never rely on hospitals being as good or well equipped as they are at home. Take everything you may need (catheter equipment etc) with you and either know how to use it yourself or be able to instruct others. You'll need to pay for hospital treatment there, then recoup the money from your insurance when you get home. Make sure you get valid receipts for everything.

Insurance. Most reputable insurance companies will give disabled people equally good insurance at no extra cost. Always tell them about your medical condition or disability and don't try to save money by avoiding buying insurance.