by K. Russell

Created on: January 28, 2009   Last Updated: June 17, 2010

Do visions of bug-spattered windshields dance in your head? Does the idea of a back country road make your heart race? For the initiated, hitting the open road is as good as it gets. Even the planning process is exciting. Maps, brochures, destinations, packing plans, reading lists (I recommend John Steinbeck's My Travels with Charley) cover your kitchen table as you prepare. While Route 66 may not be what it once was, there are plenty of Great American Road Trips out there.

Most people begin their road trip plans with a time frame, a destination (or lack thereof) and a mode of transportation. How long can you be away? Are you going to start from home? Is it a one-way or a round-trip adventure? Will you use your own car, rent a car, ride a motorcycle, or perhaps use an RV? Will you use cash or credit? Are there any special passenger needs, say, young children, medical conditions or a cynical teen? Sit down with your fellow passengers and hammer out some of the details ahead of time to make your trip more enjoyable for everyone.

Many people use their own car on road trips. If you choose to rent a car, there are dozens of companies to choose from and most can be looked at online: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise and National are all relatively competitive, just be sure to factor in rental costs, mileage and insurance fees, roadside assistance options, return and repair policies and any specials or discounts. If you decide to avoid the hotel issue, you can rent an RV from companies such as Cruise America, USA RV Rentals, airstreams4rent or some car rental companies.

Regardless of the type of transportation you choose, it is imperative that you ensure the mechanical soundness of your vehicle. Membership in a Road Service organization such as AAA or Coach Net is always a good idea. Traveler's checks, a first aid kit, emergency contact information and cell phone charger that inserts in your cigarette lighter are more good ideas. A perfect road trip can be ruined with mechanical breakdowns or theft. Many travel and camping organizations (AAA, Passport America, Good Sam's and KOA) offer inexpensive or free guides to campgrounds, attractions and service centers, with up to date contact information and rates.

Unless you decide to travel in an RV, you will need to arrange for hotel rooms. Rates are generally lower when you can reserve in advance. Depending on your budget and your sense of adventure, you can "wing it" or you can highlight your map, estimate travel times

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