1. Get the oil changed and your fluids checked before you leave.
2.  Go with someone you love.  Or like.  A lot.
3. Take turns driving.
4. Bring your own music.
5. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
6. Avoid stupid traffic tickets.
7. Bring your own food and drinks.
8. Bring garbage bags.
9. Get gas before you’re on E.
10. Use the bathroom every time you stop.
11. For Pete’s sake, just pull over and let the woman pee.
12. Plan time for unexpected stops.
13. Sleep.
14. Avoid rush hour traffic.
15. Bring a map. A real, actual, paper map that does not talk to you.
16. Pack games for the kids.
17. Wear flip flops.
18. Have fun!

Don't forget the CAMERA!

Utahtea

Thanks for suggestion of camera. without camera our trip is incomplete,because we want to capture each and every moment of our trip.

If you're planning a road trip a great book is"explore the next exit before you exit"....it has a breakdown of things to do at every exit on every major highway. Just a thought for when you need to stretch your legs!

#11 For Pete’s sake, just pull over and let the woman pee.

I wouldn't want to go on any road trip with a man who would need that spelled out for him

Music is good, but I also like bringing books on tape/cd or pod casts of my favorite NPR shows like Fresh Air and Car Talk.

I like to pick up the discount hotel/motel magazines that you find at the welcome centers. Even if you don't/can't use the coupons, you have small maps that show where lodging is and what the places offer for extras as well as numbers to call ahead for a reservation or if there is room if you're worried.

Always have a paper map to use. Do not rely on a GPS if you are venturing into a remote area.

Always carry at least 1 gallon of water per person or pet if you are driving in a hot area.

Make sure your spare tire is functional (not a temporary spare) and accessible. Make sure you know how to change a tire.

If you get a flat, change the tire and go to a tire repair place to get your flat fixed. Never venture forward without a usuable spare.