Hey guys, in the next two weeks or so, we're planning on driving from California to Texas in our mostly stock 3rd Gen. Maintenance items are done and truck drives fine. That being said, what would you suggest to make this experience great? From must have travel items to stops, any tips would be appreciated. The wife and our two kids will be taking the following so far

• First Aid Kit
• Ryobi Air compressor
• Tire plug kit
• Flash lights
• Blankets
• Mountain Bike
• Fishing poles

We're looking to head out from Cali, stay at the grand canyon, head to Bearizona in AZ and finally head off to TX to visit family. Any suggestions for during and after the trip would be greatly appreciated!

fixed it for ya
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I'm assuming most of this travel will be along I-40? You should be good, if your 4runner is in good mechanical condition.

I also like bringing a jump box like the NOCO small boxes, some tools in case of basic repairs, some gloves (leather for stuff like a tire change and nitrile in case of more in depth repairs).

The grand canyon is super hot this time of year so bring lots of water and maybe some gatorade. I'd also recommend some sunscreen.

I just did this exact same trip along the I-40 and Route 66. Our goal was to make it to the midway point of Rte 66 in Adrian, and we did. Feel free to PM me any specific questions. I will say that what really came in handy was a full compliment of over the counter medicines as I ended up getting a stomach flu on the last leg of the return drive and my wife came through with having everything I needed in the middle of the night. She also drove us home from there as I was in no shape to do so. I know that's oddly specific but damn it made a huge difference.

To see the grand canyon, get there early, like at 7am to minimize heat and traffic/large crowds and wait times to get in. Make time to also stop at the petrified forest national park...totally worth it.

Let me know what cities you want to stop at or what kind of activities you like. We saw so much stuff, mostly off the beaten path kind of stuff that was amazing.

Oh yeah, for an awesome Route 66 experience, bypass the I-40 at Kingman and take Route 66 to Seligman and then hook back up to to get to Williams. Don't forget to stop at the Grand Canyon Caverns before Seligman. It is a fun experience.

What are the ages of the kids? I traveled with my wife and 8 year old daughter. She's been conditioned for long roadtrips, but a nintendo switch, a tablet with loaded movies, and coloring books help.

Check cooling system, check charging/starter system, check suspension components and witness mark nuts and bolts with welder paint marker, also all eight alignment adjuster bolt tabs, balance tires. Emergency tool kit.

I know this is late, but I'd add one other thing: maps. Sometimes the GPS (that is usually a great help) can screw things up royally. A road atlas and some maps can save the day.

Bring more than you expect to need. Snacks included!

Hopefully he's made it safely in the year since posting that ( :