Hi there...

First, let me say that I have just recently found this site, and I am flabbergasted about the helpfulness and content. This is truly a well-managed forum with tons of useful information.

Now, to the good stuff:

Preface: I am 26, in good health and am deciding to live out my dream of moving to San Diego. I have decided to add another life dream (why not?) and get to CA via a month-long solo camping trip. I would have preferred to travel Northern US, but I am deciding to start in GA and stay relatively south for the trip, due to April weather conditions.

I have all of February and March to get my ordeals in order, find residency in San Diego, and save up as much as possible.

My goal with this thread is to garner as much info/advice as possible, regarding suggested paths, campsites, solo-camping/hiking, etc.

I am going to leave a lot of room for spontaneity on the trip, but this is what I do know:

- Once in GA, I will avoid all freeways for the trip, unless necessary.
- I want to spend some good time in Arizona, New Mexico, California
- I may try to incorporate a few days south of the border.
- I will avoid anything but tent camping at all costs-at least now i say that :)

I would have liked to bring a friend along for company/entertainment, but I am really looking forward to the Pros of going solo. I imagine it will be a soul-enlightening experience.

To begin some of my questions:

- What are the pros and cons of bringing a fire-arm for protection?
- And, is it even possible for me to bring a gun across all these statelines, and possibly Mexico (doubtful, I think)?
- I will be driving a Ford Explorer. Do I take advantage of all the space and pack heavy, or pack light and try to really get in touch with nature and go backpack camping mostly?
- How far north can I go in April (say, Midwest) before I am experiencing "cold" nights - i would say to the point of being uncomfortable ~30F?

Thanks again for any advice you might add. I look forward to adding more info and any plans as they come about to keep you up-to-date.

Cheers!