Unfortunately flats are the most common thing I get and suck most at fixing on the road. I used to pack way too many tools than were necessary simply because one time my chain got stuck between the hub and frame, and I didn't have any tools with me.

Never thought about the mount-ability of those little straps since I always seem to have a spot for them on any bike I rode. It sucks to not have proper mounting, especially when doing a trip like this!

Ah, maybe that's due to the weather you had there. In my experience some ticks always seem to end up on my legs going through dense forests.

Thank you for the info, I appreciate it a lot!