I’ve been reading this board for a few weeks and really enjoy everyone’s posts.

Here is the summary of my 2008 Summer Road Trip:

June-September (9 weeks)

NYC, PA, DC, VA, Atlanta, TN, OK, NM, Grand Canyon, maybe Vegas, San Diego, LA, SF, Seattle, Vancouver, Idaho, Montana, Yellowstone, ND, Minnesota, Chicago, Columbus, Buffalo, PA, NYC (looping around the US)

It will be me and my almost 9 year old son in our 2007 Honda CR-V. We’ll be staying with family and friends about half the time. My son has autism and food allergies- so some things are limited- like where to visit and what to eat. I’ll be the only driver, but I organized the trip so I usually have a day of rest in between long journeys. I’ve got a GPS, Ipod, DVD player, Blackberry and large Igloo cooler.

Here are some questions I have for the group:

Between Squamish, BC and Naples, ID- where would you cross the border?
Are there any yearly passes for Children’s Museums?
I’m thinking of staying in Flagstaff and driving up to the North Rim of the Canyon. Does this make sense?
From San Fran to Seattle- would you take 101 (by the ocean) part of the way or the interstate the whole way?
I’ve read a lot of the articles you have on the site, but are there any specific laws I should be concerned about- like no right on red?
Any gas or credit card I could get that would save me money?
What paperwork should I have with me other than license, passport, insurance card, registration, military ID and letter from my son’s father saying it’s ok to travel out the country?
We have roadside with our car insurance USAA. Do I need to let them know ahead of time that we’re going to Canada?
What are the best places in Northern NM to see? I’ve never been to that area and there seems to be so much.
Anyone have some really good insider tips on traveling in your car? I know I can’t drag all of our stuff in and out of hotels. Should I pack 1 small bag with all that is needed for 1 day (shampoo, clothes, computer, etc.) and leave the rest in the car? I’m thinking of getting some type of carrier for the top of the car. Are they secure?
Do most gas stations in the west have ice? I do have to carry around some food for my son.


I took a greyhound 20 years ago to and from NYC - San Fran and then NYC - Denver. I also drove from NYC to Chicago and NYC to Myrtle Beach by myself. A few years ago I did NYC to Minnesota with my husband and son. I’ve been on the road before- but not for this length of time. I think the longest I’m going is a week without seeing someone I know. My son, despite his disability is really good in the car. I guess my biggest worry is safety and fatigue. Thanks everyone----

"Kirby"