How can I prolong the life of my leather belt?

If you know that you're not going to use it for a week or so, get yourself some leather softener (or neatsfoot oil) at the local hardware store, or maybe even a store like Target or WalMart (tell them what you want it for), and then apply a thin application on the inside and outside of the belt. This will keep if from drying out and cracking. It will keep it plyable. Good luck.