Choose a route. If you are short on time, I-5 may be your best route. This highway runs from California to Vancouver, BC, and if traffic isn't too bad, will be a straight shot to Washington. If you'd prefer a more scenic route, and time is not an issue, Highway 101 runs from California to Washington and offers ocean and forest views.
Choose the sights you want to see. California, Oregon and Washington all have a variety of sites to choose from. The cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco in California offer art museums, restaurants, nightlife and sightseeing. Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington are two smaller cities that offer similar activities as Los Angeles and San Francisco, but on a smaller scale. The redwood forests of California, and the pine and fir forests of Oregon and Washington are perfect for nature lovers and hikers. Oregon's Crater Lake and Washington's Mount Rainier offer natural beauty. The Hoh rain forest of Washington State is located on the Olympic Peninsula, and draws both hikers and campers alike. Since the popularity of the "Twilight" series, the Peninsula has also become famous thanks to the town of Forks. California and Oregon's wine country offer local vineyards; so does Washington's Yakima Valley region. If the kids are coming, a trip to Disneyland or Knot's Berry Farm in the Los Angeles area might satiate their need for fun.
Decide where to stay overnight. Choose your hotels before you leave. This way if you reach your next destination on your trip you won't need to worry about vacancies at hotels. You can also choose hotels that fit your budget and need for family-friendly accommodations.
Pack supplies. Water and snacks are a must in case you can't find a rest stop. You'll need to pack a first-aid kit in case of any minor bumps and bruises as well as for any larger emergencies. Have a list of hospitals in each town and their phone numbers in case of an emergency. A car emergency kit with flares is important to have in case of a break-down, and the Mountaineers' "10 essentials" (used traditionally by backpackers and mountain climbers) will provide the tools you'll need in case you are stranded. The 10 essentials (see References) were compiled by the Mountaineers, a backpacking and mountain-climbing organization, and are things any hiker, backpacker or mountain climber would need in an emergency. They are also handy to have in case your car should break down.
