When we decide to embark on an exciting trip, we sure want to cherish every moment. But nothing spoils a camping or hiking or cross-country adventure more than being ill-prepared, ill-practiced, ill-conditioned, or burdening travelmates with an ill-ruly dog. So here are some trip tips -- simple things that will help you savor the day? but that if you forget, can ruin the experience and make it feel like the whole thing was just a waste of time and money.

* Condition yourself and your dog! Don't let your first hike through the forest primeval end up with you doubled over, catching your breath, unable to take in the sights and sounds -- or with a dog that just can't take another step. When we go on a trip, we tend to spend longer hours in our chosen activity, too, seeing more country, and we might not be used to it. So get in shape!

* Dress suitably for your destination, taking clothes to handle both cold and hot extremes.

* Don't choose a trip as the time to break in a new pair of hiking boots.

* Do not forget a camera!

* If you're traveling with friends, make sure everyone understands ahead of time who pays for what and when -- and no IOUs allowed. Scraps over money spoil more trips than bad weather does.

* Throw in a travel journal to record, that evening, the events from the day.

* It goes without saying, but I will anyway: dog manners! Make sure he'll behave in a crate, in a motel, in the truck, around other dogs, and around other people.

* Bring a copy of the dog's medical records in case you need to make an emergency trip to the vet, don't forget a well-stocked first aid kit, and don't leave his normal medications on the kitchen counter back home.

* Finally, relax and enjoy yourself! Don't press to hit every hot spot in one day. Savor the sights, sounds, and smells -- you never know when you'll get a chance to go back.