Plan your own American road-trip

Plan with military precision, months in advance

Go over your car forensically and fix or replace anything remotely suspect

Fit a fresh set of tyres and brakes, and carry out a thorough service if you are covering big miles

Take your time with paperwork and double-check everything to minimise customs hold-ups

Arrange for the car to arrive two weeks before you do – ships are regularly delayed

Contact a number of smaller US insurance brokers, as finding cover can be difficult

Print itineraries for each day. Even if you don’t use them, the process will mean you start each day prepared

Take a small toolkit, and join the AAA breakdown service. If your car has known common failures, consider carrying those spares

Carry paper maps just in case – mobile phone navigation coverage is not available everywhere

Take a coolbox, plenty of water, snacks and blankets

Book accommodation in advance so you have a bed for each night

Carry your US insurance identity card, EPA approval, driving licence and passport in case of police stops

Allow plenty of time for looking around, stopping for lunch, coffees and photography

Try to start each day early before most people are on the roads

Choose your moments to exercise speed; US Highway Patrols and State Troopers are stealthy operators

Read up on US driving differences if you’re not familiar with them

If something goes wrong, don’t despair – there is always a solution, even if you are forced to change plans

For more information visit: www.aircooledbug.co.uk