Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

One of my closest friends might have her bach party in Las Vegas next year. I am petrified of flying, and I really don't think I'm getting on a plane for that long of a flight (I know it's only a few hours...but that is long to me) without DH. I am getting myself sick thinking about getting on a plane.

However, I don't want to miss this party....do you think this would be totally nuts:

DH and I drive to Colorado together. His cousin lives near there. DH visits his cousins..after a night's rest, I drive to Las Vegas by myself. We're there for two or three nights, and then I come back, get DH, and then we drive back to LI.

Has anyone ever driven all the way across the country? Is it really trafficky in certain areas? Are there a lot of rests stops between Colorado and Las Vegas? I'd be spooked out if I had to get off at some sketchy place by myself...though not as scared as if I have to get on a plane.

Message edited 7/9/2012 3:38:21 PM.

Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

Totally not insane! What an adventure.

Back in 2000 I drove cross country with friends who were moving from NY to Las Vegas. It was so much fun. We stopped in Indiana and Colorado for our overnight stays. Unfortunately, we didn't do any sightseeing along the way which I was so bummed about. They didn't need to be in Vegas at any particular time. They were staying with family before they found a place and didn't have jobs yet. I just needed to be there for a flight to Los Angeles for training for my new job.

On that note, I would definitely do it. Why not? If you are concerned about driving to Vegas by yourself, is there any way you and DH can do it together? Maybe plan the trip so that you both do the entire trip together?

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

Colorado to Vegas is still a very long drive...probably around 11-12 hours? Is that something you would be willing to do, especially after the even longer drive from NY to CO? I just couldn't see driving 5,000+ mi. (roundtrip) to go to Vegas for 2-3 days...mayyybe if it was for a longer period of time (but, I don't have a fear of flying so I know my thought process is different than yours). Can you get some Xanax or something from your doctor for the 5 hour plane ride or are you dead set against flying?

Message edited 7/9/2012 4:43:17 PM.

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

I've traveled cross country a bunch of times. Flying is SO Much easier. Get a perspiration for xanax and you won't give a crap about anything! Life is too short to be afraid of something so essential as flying. I also recommend this book Flying Without Fear

My husband is a private pilot and I used to be VERY afraid of flying. Knowing what's going on makes all the difference. Good luck

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

How about driving to CO with DH and then taking the shorter flight to LV

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

When I graduated ASU we started in AZ, hit LA (ass backwards LOL), then new Orleans, then up to NY.

I would totally make a trip out of it with just DH!

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

I drive alone 2x a month for work. I have driven across Western Kansas and Northern Ks bordering on Ne. And its very remote. Though I don't know the road just be sure that youre prepared to drive very long way. I broke done heading to Co. And roadside assistance would be 2 hrs so I called 911. Sheriff came and helped.

I'm sure you'd be fine but mapquest the route and see what you're getting yourself into. I would look into fear of flying school. I think they have that.

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

xanax!

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

Thanks everyone for the suggestions! I have a lot to think about!

I know I could look into medication...but it's not only the flight I'm worried about. I've flown before, and I get so anxious before I fly that I'm worried I'd be freaking out for the next few months PLUS the entire time that we're on the trip because I'd know I'd have to get back on the plane.

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

dh and i drove to montana last year to visit and move a car across country. it was boring but we stopped at a few places and then flew home. we took 80 out and it was boring, but i heard the southern route is much more enjoyable.

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

Posted by BunnyWife

Posted by JAAMS

Thanks everyone for the suggestions! I have a lot to think about!

I know I could look into medication...but it's not only the flight I'm worried about. I've flown before, and I get so anxious before I fly that I'm worried I'd be freaking out for the next few months PLUS the entire time that we're on the trip because I'd know I'd have to get back on the plane.

How about a fear of flying course? This party is still a ways out. It may be worth looking into

Re: Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

I have driven across country about 6 times...I totally recommend that people do it to see the country. One you get out of the NY metro area, the driving is easy (albeit boring)

You will hear "Hotel California" no less than 10 times...it seems to bridge all music genres.


That being said,, I do agree that you should really try to conquer your fear of flying. It opens so many more travel opportunities.

Would this be insane? Re: Driving across country

I've done it three times, twice as an adult.

First time as an adult was very lesuirely, I was a teacher with the summer off and we stopped to visit friends and family along the way. It was a great trip!! Second time was to move, we hauled ass and drove 10-12 hours most days. If you are driving straight through, it can get pretty boring and you get stiff and tired being in the car for so long. If you can stop along the way, it's a great way to see the country. Be prepared with lots of water and a reliable car. There are lots of desolate areas you will drive through where you may not have cell service. Personally, I would not drive alone from Colorado to Vegas. Most of the traffic is around larger cities or areas where road construction is taking place.