Hey my name is Jeremy more commonly known as jkapps, I am new to 'live journal' I'm from New Zealand and am on my O.E, traveling through America.  I have been backpacking since April 3rd 08 with my buddy Anna.  We went through California to Anaheim -Disneyland, Dallas-Texas, Illinois-Effingham, and Evansville, Chicago, in Pennsylvania at mo and on way to New York via Pittsburg.  And man what a ride, we have actually been traveling by Amtrak railroad, which I dare say has been interesting, remember you can only travel coach for so long, iPod, laptop, cards or good books are strongly advised.  There are plugs and things for you to use on trains which does help.  If from N.Z, remember your power adaptor.  There are so many things you learn through trial and error when backpacking, and so when you do make that mistake it really sinks in.  Another thing to remember is to pack lightly because you carry everything on you, and different airports have different weight limits for luggage.  If you buy stuff you can always send home, but that’s classed on weight too so can be expensive.  Ok in America unlike N.Z they have hi and low pressure toilets.  Also toilets are already one quarter full.  Now I have been fortunate to come across three thus far.  Let’s just say finding out where plungers are kept prior to using the guest bathroom will save you a very interesting conversation with your host every time.  Also another pointer if toilet does block more pressure will not help, so don’t hit the flusher again.  Tell host immediately, and get it sorted, before you really make a mistake.  Or I suppose if things are tense then you can use it as an ice breaker?