I live in So.Calif. and have driven my VWVanagon to Virginia and
back again once a year for the last four years. Those trips have offered
up some of my most pleasurable memories.

     My advice would be to bring along some coffee and enjoy as many
sunsets and sunrises as possible. Nothing better than huddling around a
hot cup of coffee as the sun comes up.

     Practical items to take along would be a cell phone, some kind of
weapon that you are comfortable with, plenty of water, a working spare
tire, etc.

     Places to see of course would include the Grand Canyon, the giant
meteorite impact site, and the painted desert. If your trip took you more
north go through St. Louis and then head to Mt. Rushmore.
Happy Trails to you.