New to the scene, got some questions

I agree with buy a Atlas, also buy some cheep legal pads, write down your directions, way points like exit before the one you need, cities your going to pass thru.

CB you really dont need one, but Cobra 29 will serve you welll for many years.

I use a blue parrot headset, but my son likes plantronics.

 

Hey Jeff,

Don't worry about the little things... these will work themselves out.

Use your gut, stick with it, and maneuver where required.

If you need a hand out there on the road... ask, and someone will step up. Allot of good people running the highways!

 

My dad always looked for the guy at the truck stop that didn't talk much and avoided all those who talked loudly and in a group. He always seen those as the ones who didn't know ####, and claims he was usually right

 

just remember there has been more than one RANGER who was handed his ### from someone better ( or group or even COP's ) so tread lightly with the GI JOE attitude in a lot of places you will be going

 

Stay out of trucking...

Mikeeee

 

I'm married now, but before that I did what I have always done. Go to bars on my TAH, and find something. Not much anyone can tell you bout picking up a woman

 

HAHAHAHAHAhahahaha!!!
But seriously, while you're on a budget get some cheap earbuds with a microphone built in (at plenty of stores). They work pretty good, my wife heard me fine. And instead of a GPS, get a current Road Atlas. GPS can be helpful, but too many people put too much stock into them-they can get you into trouble, as well. Once you get some dough, the aforementioned Blue Parrott Bluetooth is a great one. Get the basic model. They (http://www.vxicorp.com/products/blueparrott-bluetooth-mobile-solutions/bluetooth-headsets/b250-xt/) can be listed at over $100, but usually someone has a deal for around $80. They are durable, hold a long charge, and people on the other end can usually hear you good, windows down or not. I don't have one, but a smart phone or small, cheap laptop could probably be invaluable.

Fun? Depends on what you like. Books, newspapers, mags if you like to read. Books on tape/CD. If you have an MP3 player, get into downloading some podcasts. I was never into them until I started running to Canada and back. There are thousands, and they can while away the hours on the road for sure. I think if you're gonna be OTR far and wide, a bike is a great idea. If you have time when you hit town, check a local paper for goings on.