Driving in the US.

[Jun aka Pekto]

The police everywhere are getting strict with texting while driving. I highly discourage fiddling around with a cellphone, GPS, even stereo while behind the wheel. At least don't make it look so obvious. That includes while at a stoplight or stop sign. Do all that stuff while parked or before you head off. Plan your trip beforehand with Google Maps or map book.

It's not very common out west. But, pay attention to "No turn on red" signs. When you see one, you can only turn left or right when it's green. It's almost guaranteed the cops are watching that spot. Even us west coast types weren't used to it the first time we encountered it.

At freeways, it's generally okay to do 5 mph over the speed limit. I've always done 70 mph in a 65 mph zone with cops around. But, you go 6 mph over and the cops may ticket you. In a 65 mph zone, I usually keep my cruise control at 68/69 mph. That way, when I hit a downhill stretch, I stay at 70 mph.

I'm not sure how long your drive will be. But, train yourself to be behind the wheel for several hours at a time and get plenty of sleep before the trip.

Avoid caffeine pills. They may keep you awake. But, if you take enough of them, you'll be miserable afterwards because your stomach will feel like it's in knots.

Edit:

In a few weeks, we'll be moving back to Arizona. That's a 3200 mile road trip. I'll be in one car with the luggage and the wife will be in another car with the kids. I'm pretty much giving her pointers like here.