Cross-Country in Early January 2010

[rouqc101]

Hi all,

I am currently trying to figure out if it is feasible to drive my 1996 Volvo sedan (2 wheel drive) from Portland, OR, to Boston right after the New Year. I would allow myself about 2 weeks, max, to make the trip, and I would really like to avoid hitting tons of bad weather during this time as I have not had a lot of snow-driving experience.

I do not mind swinging south, especially because I have never been to that part of the United States (even though I know it is not exempt from bad weather).

Good idea? Bad?

[Midwest Michael]

Welcome to the RTA Forum!

Well, its certainly feasable to drive cross country in January - thousands of people do it every day, even in winter.

Its the other elements that are potentially problematic. First is this going to be a round trip? If so, When you say 2 weeks max, then you really are at the bare minimum of what you need time wise if you use all of those two weeks. You're looking at a solid 5-6 days of travel each direction, assuming you hit good weather. At this time of year, it makes sense to plan to lose a day in case you do hit some bad weather and need to slow down or stop to let plow crews do their job.

As far as going south is concerned, if you've never been there and want to explore it it makes sense. However, again, you've got an issue with time, as going south could easily add 2-3 days to your trip each way - which you don't really have time for if this is a round trip. And weather wise, it really is of no benefit unless you've got a specific storm in the forecast that you are trying to get around. In general, increasing your miles and time on the road would actually be increasing your chance of seeing a weather problem.

[rouqc101]

Thanks for your quick response!

Because I am driving the car back to Boston for good, it will not be a round trip, but rather a sort of leisurely tour. In light of that fact, what do you think the best route would be? Is two weeks doable?

[Midwest Michael]

Well, as I mentioned, you need just under a week to make the drive each way, going direct at a quick pace - so obviously, two weeks to go one way is enough time to do this at a pretty leisurely pace.

As far as routes go, there is no one sized fits all "best" route. With 2 weeks, you could go pretty much any way you'd like, but you need to figure out what it is that you want to see and do. Without knowing that, there is no way anyone can say what is "best' for your specific trip.