Guide for Long-Distance Truck Travel: From Savannah to San Jose

Introduction

Hi guys! I’m driving from Savannah, Georgia, to San Jose, California, in a 15-foot U-Haul truck with a 2-wheel car tow dolly attached. Whether you're planning a similar journey or just curious, this guide will provide you with valuable advice and tips to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Read on to discover how to efficiently manage every aspect of your journey, from parking and navigating through roadways to dealing with unexpected challenges along the way.

Challenges of Trucking with a Car Tow

One of the most significant challenges of towing a car is ensuring you have ample space to maneuver, especially when it comes to parking and resuming travel. Gas stations and truck stops offer excellent options for these tasks. Truck stops are ideal because of their ample parking spaces, which provide the room needed to make wide turns safely.

Learning to back up a truck with a car trailer is a skill that requires practice. If you haven't practiced this skill before, it’s not easy to master it on the road. Every stop will involve careful planning to ensure you can park and get back onto the road without using reverse.

Strategic Parking and Rest

These challenges are particularly noticeable when it comes to hotels, where parking can be a challenge. To avoid complications, always utilize the hotel's parking lot if available, and check-in early, preferably before 4:00 PM. This significantly increases your chances of securing a room.

Plan your days strategically. Aim to drive a limited distance each day, typically no more than 500 miles. This allows you to rest well and avoids the risk of driving tired. Always remember that the dynamics of stopping a van with a heavy trailer are different from driving a regular vehicle.

Safety and Maintenance

Ensure that the trailer hitch is securely bolted to reduce the risk of swaying, which can affect both the safety of the driver and the smooth movement of the vehicle. Always maintain a steady speed (65 mph is suggested for towing), especially in adverse weather conditions.

Regularly check tire pressure and tread depth, especially those on the dolly. Always carry an air gauge to check the inflation level daily. Keeping your tires properly inflated can significantly improve fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance.

Toxic Heat and Emergency Preparedness

Dealing with the heat, particularly in the desert states like Nevada and Arizona, can be challenging. Always have a couple of bags of ice in a cooler in case the engine starts overheating, which is common in these areas. Reducing your speed can help mitigate the risk of overheating.

Additionally, make an early start each morning to beat the heat. Leaving the motel or hotel early is crucial so that you can drive before the afternoon heat becomes unbearable. Driving in the cooler morning hours can also help you cover more distance with less fatigue.

Good luck! Here’s hoping your journey from Savannah to San Jose is memorable and stress-free! Happy road tripping!