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2-3 weeks will give you plenty of time to really explore the many great areas of the southwest, and you have a whole ton of options to pick from. This isn't a site where you'll find people to build an itinerary for you, and if that's what you really want, you should consult a travel agent, but if you come up with one yourself, we'll be happy to let you know what we think and offer some modifications you might not otherwise think of.

Safety should be a concern, but its one that people often worry too much about. Certainly there are risks on the road, but there are risks involved in everyday life, and as long as you are using common sense, traveling isn't necessarily any more dangerous that being at home.

A properly working car should be able to handle any conditions you'll find even in the desert, and if you are getting a rental, then you should be getting a car in good condition.

I would also make sure that renting an RV is really the right choice for you. They certainly can be a great way to travel, but people shouldn't assume it is the right choice for all trip. An RV is certainly going to cost more, to rent, drive, and then pay for campsites. Yes, your baby will have to be in a car seat, even in an RV, and you might find dealing with that is more difficult in an RV, as opposed to a car where it would be within arms reach at all times. In a car, you still could keep things cool by using cooler with ice, or even a small electronic cooler. Again, an RV might be the right choice, but I wouldn't just make that assumption without putting some thought into it.