Everywhere but Wyoming - and the benefits of paper maps

These last few weeks have been travel-packed. Washington, Colorado, Kansas, Texas. But like I said, driving around doesn't take a lot of planning, even with kids. Make sure you have plenty of water, a full tank of gas, good tires, and a map of the area your headed to.

A paper map is essential. Wyoming is a VERY large state that does not always have reliable cell phone reception. Using your smartphone's GPS is not always an option. Mapquest.com is a good resource, as well as AAA.

Friends are also great resources! If you're new to an area, talk to a friend that's been there before going, or bring them along for the ride. The trip is always more fun with people to share it with.