Quote Originally Posted by wastedsea View Post

Any tips please? What do I need to do before I make this trip or should I even attempt it?? Really more concerned with driving an older vehicle with a lot of miles. I would freak out if I got stranded!! Any help would be greatly appreciated!!
That's a really long run for someone who has never done this before. Plus you may be heading thru some urban areas which will slow you down and stress you out.

Car checkout is critical. Northern strength anti-freeze. Northern tread depth on the tires. Fresh wipers and washer fluid and a washer pump that actually works. Reliable belts hoses and battery. Good spare tire. Fuel pump been changed recently? Probably should get that done. It's probably the most painful of the long-term consumables to change. (others are alternator and starter - these are easier to do if it becomes necessary)

Know how to change the tire. Try it to be sure you know how. Know how to check under the hood. Check every other gas stop. Just because the car has been fine in town for the last 5 years doesn't mean it'll be ok on the interstate. A problem detected early means you get to decide what to do - much better than waiting on the road shoulder with the hood up.

If you plan to get freaked out if stranded I suggest you don't go. If you can develop a plan for what to do if that happens - then you'll feel better and are acting like a responsible adult. Your choice.