At 12:13 PM 3/20/98 EST, GMBulley wrote:
>In a message dated 98-03-20 11:38:10 EST, uzzi@AIMNET.COM writes:
>
><< top 5 list of things you would bring on a 3,500 mile road trip. elevations
>will varying from sea level to about 12,000'. >>
>
>Assuming you will be camping, and will bring all of the necesary provisions,
>equipment, and clothing, I would also bring:
>
>1. A weather radio. Radio Shack has a pocket model for less than $30 that will
>tune into any local NOAA station. Even if the radio is off, you can set it to
>sound an alert if there is broadcast warning of impending weather calamity.
>Could be a lifesaver, as we enter tsunami and earthquake season.
>
>2. AAA card. For $60 a year you get maps, Campsite info, lockout service,
>towing, jumpstarts, tire changes, and legal assistance if you cross The Law.
>They'll do everything except replace your head gaskets, but you might ask.
>
>3. ATM or Credit card. Don't carry cash, there is no legitimate reason to
>carry a pile of cash into unfamiliar surroundings. Most fuel places accept ATM
>or credit cards. $40 is plenty to keep on hand for emergencies.
>
>4. Porta-potti. No leaving the Van at 0:dark:30 to releive yourself. No
>searching for a rest area. Nothing will bring you closer to your mate than...
>...well, let's not go there.
>
>5. A four-cell Mag-Lite.  Self-explanatory.
>

Good suggestions. To this I would add:

6. A Bentley manual and a basic tool kit.

7. Some spare parts (this is a list in itself).

8. Package of 3 road flares.

9. A cell phone if you own one. If not, be sure to have some quarters and
dimes (some pay phones now cost .35).

10. A journal and a pen so you can keep your own "captain's log".

Mark McCulley
longing for a long road trip right now