Hi-

I just got back from a three-week solo roadtrip and had no problems whatsoever. Some precautions I took:

I bought a couple phonecards and arranged to telephone my friend every single day before 12noon (her time) to check in. I also gave her a copy of my itinerary with my map route so if she didn't hear from me, she'd be able to call the police with good information about me.

I mostly stayed at KOA Kampgrounds and when you check-in they'll give you a thing to hang on your car's rearview window -- it says the check-in and check-out dates and lists how many people are in your party. I always asked them to go ahead and write "2" rather than "1" in that spot.

Try not to tell anyone you're travelling alone. Lots of times I'd make small talk with people and they'd ask if I was by myself and I'd always say stuff like, "No, I'm meeting my sister in (whatever big town was nearby) tomorrow." That way, they know you have a destination not too far away and that someone is expecting you at a certain time.

It would be a good idea to have a cellphone. If you don't already have one, you can buy one of those cellphones that have a certain amount of time alotted to them - kinda like calling cards with the cellphone included. They're not too expensive. I wish I'd had one on my trip when I got a flat tire. I know how to change a tire, but couldn't get the lug nuts off so I was at the mercy of whoever was willing to stop and help.

But like I said, if you use your own good judgment you'll be fine. I had such a good time on my trip that I'm planning another in January:

<a href="http://www.geocities.com/otisburg/index.html">http://www.geocities.com/otisburg/index.html</a>