Hi Kaye, and Welcome to the Great American Roadtrip Forum.

Last things first. You may find this site helpful, if you would like not to have to book two hotel rooms every night.

The first obvious oversite which jumps out at me is the Grand Canyon. Of course you may have a good reason for that. You will be passing right by there, and I for one, find it hard to pass without 'calling in'.

You are certainly planning on packing a lot into 13 days, which may not exactly make it a relaxed holiday. For me, it would make much more sense returning to LV and flying out of there. Is there a special reason to go to SF? (It could also mean your car rental and / or flights would work out cheaper.)

With five, I would definitely book ahead, especially as you say, during the top tourist season.

A little hint, if you have not been to North America before, take a small flag with you, and put it in the rear window of the car. Also make sure you bring your Automobile Club Membership (RACV, NRMA, etc) with you. It will give you access to free maps and tourist information from the AAA. You will need good maps - don't be tempted to rely solely on a Satnav. You may be able to get the Indian Country map, which is by far the best map covering the area of your trip.

Lifey