Are you sure flying isnt cheaper? Not that I wouldnt love the road trip - but, 2 days time (which has a cost in lost earning), plus 2 days gas/food/drink, plus wear and tear on the car is pretty costly. Flights are pretty cheap cross country via jetblue.

I'm sure you've thought of that, so while you definitely bought your car to drive, driving cross country subjects you to a ton of damage from stone chips, etc that you dont need. You can drive locally and still enjoy the ride, for the a cross country trip keep your baby at home.

 

1. I"m sure you have a smart phone -- download the app for this website: http://www.newjerseygasprices.com/ and plan your fuel stops to buy the gasoline you want at the price that makes sense! The website as a map feature too - it'll estimate your gasoline costs.
2. Avoid tailgating big rigs - they are most likely to kick up road debris that could cause front end and windshield damage.
3. Protect your car's interior with something waterproof and bring along some "wet ones" towelettes. Even animals that handle short trips well can get car sick on long drives!
4. Precheck any accommodations (including restaurants) to be sure they are pet friendly!
5. Cruise easy and enjoy the ride. Saving 4-5 hours by driving 90 mph isn't worth it ... let your passenger take pictures of the ride! If you're solo, pull over and drive smart = Not txt / no Facebook!!
6. If you have an iDrive service coming up soon, get our dealer to do it before the 3000 mile trip! Your Nav system will give you BMW Service Centers enRoute should you have a problem.
7. IF you are in a low-mileage lease and need to avoid miles, the major car rental companies rent decent cars - AVIS even rents X5's.
8. ENJOY and drive safely!!

 

Just drive it! You could save some $$$ by flying or renting, but if you're cost-sensitive, you've got the wrong car.

 

Drive and enjoy it!

 

Exactly... This entire topic is useless

 

+1

I got a full clear bra on mine before driving to Chico, ca and afterwards all the bugs washed right off. If you get a radar detector either get a valentine or a escort 8500/9500. Had both and they saved me many times. Have a great trip.

 

I can't believe anyone is worried about driving in the U.S. this day and age ... with interstate highways, many rest areas, cell phones, etc.

I drive to New England from Florida 2 to 3 times a year (about 1300 miles each way) and don't worry about it. Back in the 1950's & '60's it was more of an adventure, but we got to see more interesting things. Sure, we occasionally had mechanical type problems, but worked them out. My wife (and the kids when they were young) have driven coast-to-coast 9 or 10 times. Some trips while I was changing station in the Army, and some just for fun ... and I still love the trips today ... although I have to stretch my legs a bit more often (I was born in 1935 ... you figure it out).

The E60 is a great travel car (at least mine is), so enjoy yourself. Like someone said earlier, it's the dog I'd be most concerned about. And DON'T SLEEP IN THE CAR! Lots of wackos out there.

(I hope I haven't jinxed myself ... I'll be driving to Massachusetts in a couple of weeks. )

 

All this talk makes me want to go on a long road trip too

 

Exactly what I want to do as well. Unfortunately, I would have to cram in wifey and 2 boys. Take lots of pics.