Packing the Car
(her name is Charlie, by the way!) Maps & Guide Books (I found a ton of information at... wait for it...the Tourist Information Booth!) Having a chance to research a route and some possible points of interest can make a trip go much smoother. Even though I don't want a specific or detailed agenda, there are certain stops that I want to make sure to include. Knowing days and hours of operation can stave of frustration. Many tourist locations are not open on Monday and Tuesday. Some close after Labour Day (unfortunately, a few that I was hoping to visit). Popular tourist sites may have special events going on, which can be an incentive (special programming) or a deterrent (big crowds). With most destinations, there is more than one route. Do you want the fastest, or the more scenic? Generally I want the more scenic, but that may require more attention to availability of gas and food. When a sign says a road is "Impassible When Wet", please believe it. Ask ...