Laughlin to Carson City

We enjoy 395 heading N. The mountains are beautiful and the drive offers good views of Mt.Whitney. Bishop is a very nice town. We have stayed at Highlands RV on N side of town. Lots of gas stations and a large Von's grocery and K-Mart.
Further N you will pass a lot of spectacular scenery including Mammoth Mt, Mono Lake, Twin Lakes. Beware stopping for gas in Brideport as they have a reputation for being highest gas prices and it's well earned. We fill up in Bishop.
The only climb that is worth noting is just N of bishop; It's a long, steady grade but nothing to worry about if you take it easy. We travel it quite often, towing a 33' 5er. It's a well maintained divided highway. There is another climb past Mono Lake but once again it's not difficult if you take it easy.
There is lots to see/do on 395 if you have time but if just driving through the scenery is worth the drive.

I much prefer the scenery along 395. If you have time, you can take your toad up the the base of Mt. Whitney, and if you're old enough to remember Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, the Alabama Hills (Lone Pine) are the location for all those cowboy movies. There is a state or fed campground up there, too, on the way to Mt. Whitney, big enough for your rig as I recall.

We just arrived at our home base in Reno Wednesday and hhoked up with 395 West of Barstow.

Always a gorgeous drive on the East side of the Sierra's. Good road with a few climbs but no problems.

Safe travels.

I agree with most of the comments so far. If you have the time, and the longer distance is of no concern, then 395 is a much nicer drive.
I second the suggestions for Alabama hills. You can find boondocking sites there as well, if you are willing.
Another climb, other than out of Bishop, is out of Lee Vining. Not a big deal, but long steady climb.
Cheers,