I will be driving a 17' U-haul with a car dolly pulling a mazda Proteje. I have never done such a long roadtrip and never driven through snow or ice. I am wondering what would be the best route to take to avoid the worst weather and mountains. I know I could drive down south and then go east on I-40 or I-10. Can anyone let me know what would be better between I-40 or I-10? Going this way is about 600 miles more of driving but I could avoid the mountains. Can anyone tell me how the drive might be if I drive through the middle of the country instead of going straight down south and then crossing to the east? Can the weather be really bad in mid December? What would be the best route to drive if I go across the middle? How is the best way to check on the weather as I drive through all the states? Does each state have a phone # to call or is there one phone # that I can call to check on the weather? I would normally be excited about a road trip like this but I am worried about driving through winter weather and around mountains. Any help with info would be Greatly appreciated. Thanks, Ramie