Tips for first time long haul road trip.

Parrothead Mike wrote:
We live in SW Michigan and our winter trips to Florida (Crystal River - SW of Ocala along the Gulf Coast) are 1,200 miles one way. We spend 2 nights on the road and arrive at our campground 3-4 p.m. on the third day. This means I hit it hard the first day at about 550 miles, about 300 the second, and 350 the third. I've been known to do 700 a day, but honestly, that's too much.

I figure we average about 55 mph with fuel, food, and potty stops (try to combine those when possible). I'm a little heavy on the pedal, often 70 mph or better at times. You shouldn't expect to average any better than 55 mph. Kids will also add to the stopping.

You may have something against I-65 to Indy, but you can avoid Atlanta by getting to Indy on 65 then staying on I-65 down to Montgomery, AL. From there take US131 southeasterly through Dothan, AL to I-10. We take I-10 east to exit 225 and take US27/US19 south. US19 is a 4-lane that has very little traffic. There are a few small towns but you can move along well.

Just south of Homosassa Springs take US98 over to I-75 and not far north of Tampa. This route will keep you out of Atlanta and off the I-75 race track, which in my mind isn't fun to drive with all those trucks and 80+ speedsters. Also, safer traveling in my opinion.

There's a nice campground south of Montgomery, AL right along US131 and just north of Troy, AL called Deer Run. FHUs too. You'd still have about 450ish miles to Orlando from there.

Glad to see this response. Planning this route in September, also from SW Mi. Looking to stop Elizabethtown KY, then south Montgomery AL, and a night in Ocala before getting down to Disney. Have done the 75 route too many times in a car and dislike it greatly. Couldnt even imagine towing through Atlanta.