Getting Started

Well now.  Spring has arrived and it’s time to get ready for the trip long hoped for, but never taken.

We ended last year’s trip with this year’s final planning reflection that … “Alaska keeps bubbling to the top in our discussions.”  Maybe became reality during the winter months.

New Tow Vehicle

We replaced the Trailblazer with a 2015 Dodge Durango Limited in late October.  It came with a tow package, but we had to add an electric brake controller and mud guards for trailer stone protection.

Trailer Prep

Trailer preparation was the same as in years past. 

We spent an overnight at Cross Creek Camping Resort in Delaware, Ohio so we could de-winterize and test the various systems that provide us with comfortable travel.

It just takes part of a day to flush antifreeze from the
plumbing, fill the water tank and test the systems.

We had the local Airstream dealer check the brakes, wheel bearings, shocks and tires.  They also fixed a leaky toilet valve.

And of course, the trailer got washed and waxed.

Travel Prep

The encouragement and many of the ideas for this trip came from our Atlanta-based friends, Carl and Vickie Eckert.  We started getting ready with AAA maps and travel guides.  We added 2016 publications of The Milepost and Alaska Discount Coupons.

We also got some powerful insect repellent and some bear spray because we don't run very fast.

We don’t plan to carry extra gas or a generator.