Getting Ready

We have wanted to do a cross-country road trip for years. So much to see, but we haven't had the time. Now we do.

Planning the route

Part one - NOVA to Austin

Phil did a preliminary plan and route in the summer of 2025, then Ann took it from there and started getting specifics about where we could stay, how long we would be in the car going from place to place, and most importantly, the budget.

We fine-tuned the route, then contacted family and friends about staying with them along the way. They all said yes, they would be happy to see us! We'll see if they are as happy to see us go after our visit.

A key part of the timing was getting reservations to stay within the major national parks we'll be spending some time in -- Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. We went to make reservations in early October of 2025 and it was already too late for June 2026 dates in Glacier and Yellowstone. We were able to secure late-July reservations for Yellowstone, which is why the timing of the stages of the trip is a little funky (more on that later). We got reservations for July in off-park but nearby places at Glacier and the Grand Tetons.

All of that meant that we had to develop a pretty strict schedule to be at places when our reservations are and when our hosts will be available.

We filled in everything else with places our vacation club owns, VRBOs, and a few overnights in hotels if we have longer drives and need to stop somewhere.

Getting the vehicle in shape

We bought a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with the 3rd row seat last spring. By the time we leave it will have just over 30,000 miles on it. Going to take it to a mechanic to get checked out completely and then have it detailed inside before we head out. May as well start out with a clean car. It won't stay that way for long.

With all the seats down in the back we can fit our golf clubs, two large suitcases, the cooler, a smaller suitcase for overnights, various duffels and small bags for groceries, etc.

PACKING!!!

So how does one pack for 3 1/2 months, in various climates and altitudes? Guess we are going to find out!