Please find below planning ideas we included that helped a family of four through the trials and tribulations of making a 26 Day return trip via "Corolla" through the Eastern Canada, the American Midwest, through to the Pacific and back!!!

• Travel routes and accommodations go hand in hand when planning. Explore multiple options when researching highways as well as public transportation, then link to where you'll stay. We used multiple types of accommodation during our trip... be it tent, cabin, or hotel. Reservations were key in the very busy parks which were exempt from larger chains. When possible, we stayed at Hampton Inns while on the road. We like it because there are no surprises. Always included free wifi, free parking, full breakfast, pool and travel centre while remaining economical. It'd be our first recommendation.
• Our vehicle was essentially our home away from home. Importantly, Sullivan's Auto went over her with a fine toothed comb. Further, we didn't push her too hard... being a 2006 Corolla. With excessive heat and miles, we tried to keep the AC moderate, drive at speed limit, take frequent breaks and watch brake wear and tear (especially in the mountains). She performed admirably.
• Check with your card company before leaving so they know the card may be used abroad and drop a limit on expenditures in case it gets stolen.
• Beware that many states won't accept a Credit Card at the pumps without a zip code. This is a tough one for Canadians. You'll have to go in and purchase at the counter prior to pumping... pain in the butt!!!
• We had a great dollar... at or close to parity. It left gas, food, clothing and accommodation a solid deal.
• If you have questions... ask them. We got great information on travel routes, attractions and or even just where to pick up some groceries / bottle of wine.
• We drove a long way (nearly 15000 kms). This doesn't occur without some doing. See below;
  • We used a combination of GPS, Google maps and paper maps. We always knew (roughly) where we were, reducing a lot of road stress. Of course, we found the GPS irreplaceable in the larger metropolitan areas.
  • The kids are awesome travellers. However, it was always important to stop and get out for a bit when any of us got a little sour (me especially). We took time to stop and stretch/snack/bathroom/etc. at obvious points to keep peace in the ranks.
  • We kept a cooler at all times filled with water and goodies between the kids keeping cool a host of healthy treats. Worked well on longer car trips as well as in the hotel room at night.
  • The i-Pod/i-Pad and accompanying charger left a means for music, e-books, and maps as well as our main communication tool home via e-mail (and even a little Sodoku/note taking time when Dad wasn't driving). Can't say enough about the two great novels that Janie downloaded. They provided days of high interest entertainment.