Decide who will join you. Unless you are traveling with family, carefully consider who you invite to join you on your driving trip. Being confined in a small space for hours can take a toll on even the best of friends; it helps to make sure that all travelers have a similar purpose for the trip. Take into consideration such things as each person's budget, personal pet peeves and what sleeping conditions everyone expects. Traveling with like-minded people lends a lot to trip harmony.
Make sure your car is in good condition. Ensuring that your vehicle can make the trip will save you a tremendous amount of time and money. If your car is not in good repair, you put yourself in danger and you are at risk of having to spend valuable time and money at a car mechanic shop. Consider joining a road service club as a backup plan in the event of unforeseen car problems.
Plan your route. Start by listing the sights you want to see along the way. Use a site like Google Maps to plot your route and print the map and simple driving directions. Purchase road maps for your route as a backup, even if you have a GPS unit. Plan how far you want to drive each day, including adequate time for rest stops and sightseeing. You might consider making hotel reservations before starting your driving trip.
Pack. Two weeks before your trip, make a list of everything you will need for your driving trip. Add to it as necessary in the days leading up to the trip. Remove any items that or unnecessary, or items that you might need but can purchase anywhere. Next lay out the clothes you intend to pack and consider what you don't need. Bring sensible shoes and only the clothes you really need. An over-packed car makes everyone uncomfortable.
