Communitcation while traveling:
1. Check with your cell phone provider regarding coverage in the states you will travel. While you may not want to change providers, I have AT&T and have few if any coverage problems out west. I have friends that use Verizon are satisfied.
2. Personally, I also have a CB radio for communication and staying in touch with road conditions, accidents etc from truckers. You can buy an inexpensive CB but don't skimp on the antenna. Those cute little short antennas don't have any real range. I use a Wilson magnet based antenna.
