Ten minutes to write. Less time to read.

Originally published August 26, 2012

We’ve been on the road two weeks, with two more to go. Along the way, we’ve learned a tip or two to enhance our travels. I suspect those pioneers who started from St. Louis, Missouri, in the late 1880s said the same thing.

For instance, we’ve purchased a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles filled with water that cram our landfills. We get ice from the ice machine at the motel we’re staying at, fill the bottle with it, and then top off with water. The water stays cooler longer as we’re driving. The pioneers probably kept an eye out for a rambling stream to fill their water pouches.

Our packing procedure has also been refined. After seeing more than one authentic Conestoga wagon, we have learned to make better use of our car space. Because we didn’t know what kind of weather we’d encounter, we packed for extremes. So far, we haven’t needed the rain gear, the heavy winter coat, or the wooly hats and gloves. Instead of bringing them into the motel each time, we leave all the peripheral gear in a suitcase in the trunk, at the ready if needed. The suitcase is named “The Beast.” Of course, pioneers didn’t sleep in motels; their entire wagon could be called “The Beast.”

We have also honed our criteria for lodging. After a stay in a primitive cabin in Yellowstone, hot water was added to the list. The pioneers probably never considered this. Already on the list is Internet access, complimentary breakfast, preferably first floor accommodations, and two rooms for two people if we’re staying more than one night (Explanation to follow).

If we’re hunkering down for more than one night, we must consider that Earl loves television noise, while I love the noise of silence. I work on my computer in the evenings after we’ve visited every tourist attraction in sight. He channel surfs. So we’ve found that a two room suite in an economical motel is just the thing. If you’re wondering what “economical” looks like, it’s either an AmericInn or America’s Best Value Inn. The thread count on the sheets is minimal, but the enhancement to our trip is maximal.