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That great American trip across the country and how to survive it. If this is a move with specific and tight deadlines, sign up for AAA or an equivalent, buy a big thermos for caffeinated drinks, get a current road atlas (the kind that points out large construction projects) get behind a fast moving truck, take a deep breath and drive like crazy. Now that that is out of the way let's survive the pleasure trip.

Pick a good travel companion. Someone who will enjoy stopping where you do. A few weekend road trips before the big adventure just to see if you can stand each other in close quarters is not a bad idea. Compatible music tastes is not just a plus but a necessity for those long hours of driving. Make sure that you can agree on lodging modes, camping, hostels, motels, friends or any combination of them. Be assured that the financial contributions for gas and food are predetermined. Last of all agree on a route, the time to travel it and agree to be flexible with changes as needed. Come up with a method to end the unsolvable argument. Flipping a coin, rock, scissors, paper usually works.

If going it alone plan a few visits with old friends or relatives just to break up the time by your self. These don't have to be long visits, a lunch or a quick over night respite. Plan ahead if possible to insure a more probable success rate. If you are having a really lonely and blue day, try stopping in the off hours at a truck stop. The waitresses are professionals at ending the blues and helping you to combat those lonely feelings. Many professional cross country drivers will tell you that they are part friend, part psychologist and all Goddess of the lonely road. I'm not talking sex here that's a whole nother issue.

Don't push the trip too hard. Take time to enjoy it. Hit some scenic drives and little towns. Spend an afternoon rafting down a river. Catch a country fair. Find a funky festival some where on the route. Plan for an extended two or three day stay at a couple of places along the way. This gives you a chance to catch your breath, stretch your legs and actually enjoy a spot.

Be flexible about things. Some local may clue you in on a hidden treasure that changes your route or schedule. Don't miss out on these gems. That's half the fun isn't it, discovering America. Have a contingency plan. What if things just don't work out? Have a little proactive planning in place. Some one you can call for a money emergency. What to do if you wreck the car or it just plain breaks down? Don't dwell on this stuff, just be prepared.

Well there it is the other coast. That is if you didn't marry the life guard in Sapulpa or fall in love with Boulder and take a job as a bartender, much to the chagrin of your parents. May the sun be at your back, the food be the best and the road of adventure stretch far in front of you.

P.S. fill up the tank before those long mountain or desert stretches it really might be the last gas station for 200 miles.

Learn more about this author, Betsy Young.
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