Preferred route from Birmingham to Phoenix

[mikestock]

We are planning a trip next week from Birmingham to Phoenix and we're trying to decide berween the I-40, northern route and the I-20/I-10, southern route.

Driving a 40' MH with a toad and really don't care to deal with ice potential. The northern I-40 route is about 15 miles shorter and I am familiar with this route only during warm weather. The I-20/I-10 route through Shreveport, Dallas and ElPaso looks OK on paper but just wondering if there are any negatives to chosing this route. Also, would appreciate any recommended, safe, clean camping stops on the lower route.

My wife has physical restrictions and we will probably make only about 350 miles/day. She also thinks stray bullets are constantly flying across the Rio Grande from the Juarez cartels, so I guess we won't be camping near ElPaso.

Thanks, in advance.

[USAFBILL]

On our yearly run to Arizona we always preferred the I-20 thru Dallas. The route is actually South of Dallas so was much much easier than going through Houston. I-40 would be okay if you can be certain that weather will not be a factor..Enjoy.