What advice do you have for me on planning a drive cross the US?|106364

I am going to go back home soon and will be driving my car across the US. I want advice on what to do and not to do to make this trip go smoothly and quickly. I am strapped for cash so I doubt I will be able to go and sight see. What should I do to prevent any disasters and what should I brings and tips on how to save money while on my journey?

1) Join AAA. Once you join, they can map out the entire trip for you in an economic route. You will also get discounts at hotels/ motels and places to eat along the way. This will also come in VERY handy if you get stuck somewhere. It_s not that expensive and the peace of mind will be worth it.

2) Make sure your car is in good working condition. Get the oil changed and take it to a mechanic for a once over. Make sure the tire pressure is correct as this will help with fuel ecomony.

3) To save money on food, take your own. Pack a cooler with snacks and water and sandwiches, or whatever you like to eat. Stop at grocery stores to replenish your food instead of convenience stores- this will save a little money.

4) If possible, have someone drive with you so you can share the driving and keep each other awake on the long desolate roads.

Your biggest worry is going to be fuel ecomony, so do whatever you can to use little fuel as possible.

I totallly agree with the last answer about the food situation. Pack a cooler with plenty of drinks and food in it. Also get a map now or go to mapquest and find the route with the least miles possible and set the cruise control. I drove from California to East Texas and back in one weekend for a funeral (had to be back at work on Monday) so it can be done relatively quickly. Pack your vehicle ahead of time and fill up the night before and get a GREAT nights sleep. If you prefer, sleep all day long and leave in the evening once it_s dark. This will get you out of state before morning traffic hits and try to plan it where you will be somewhere rural when rush hour hits. Always fill up in the early morning hours and late evening hours if possible, this prevents you having to stop during the worst traffic times. Also if you fill up before the sun makes the ground hot and after the sun goes down you get more gas for your buck (gas expands with heat due to vapors and such) Make some good CD_s before you hit out on the road and if your moving back home make sure you have the things that you_ll need solely for the drive with you in your vehicle and not in a trailer. Hope this helps!