Neil, try running the term "discounts" on the search function on this forum and it'll bring up some good advice that's been posted before. As far as planning, you can't beat AAA I've heard -- but if you want to do it yourself (I wouldn't dream of letting someone else plan my trip for me, it's just too much fun, and my choice of route is always a very "personal" thing), you can get information on trip planning programs on this website, or try www.randmcnally.com for a limited free program. Personally, I use MS Streets and Trips after learning about it here on this site from other posters, and it makes easy work of the job. I got last year's copy discounted to about $15 and that's not bad for the capability it gives you. Bob