Okay, almost the last tips and off we go. Not much useful info in my head, but that's chronic, so don't get upset, let's get started.

Quest 12. Buying a car.

Before buying a car, we thought we'd only get one at the end for the trip. But when push came to shove and we bought one (July 1st), we couldn't understand how we ever lived without it. The time savings are insane, plus the ability to travel everywhere within a 300 km radius. Gas costs pennies. I had never really driven before, and I got my license a month before flying out, shamelessly buying it. If you're in the same situation, don't worry, it'll work out. I clocked a total of 35,000 km across America without any accidents. Driving there is easy. All cars are automatic, which you can drive even with your feet. So, let's go!! P.S. Before buying, I knew nothing about cars and only looked under the hood when I was 3 years old.

We buy the ride on craigslist.com - the largest private classifieds site in the USA, or by driving around local auto repair shops - maybe someone dropped off something decent there (that's how we found our beauty). Try not to buy from dealers - prices are inflated by about 3 times, so for $1500 you'll get a $500 car. If you have nothing else to do, haggle, they have room to drop the price. You'll likely sell the car through craigslist.com as well. The site is free.

Before buying, definitely take it for a test drive. If possible, drive it to the nearest auto shop. They usually check cars for free (except for big ones like Bridgestone).

I still don't know much about cars, but I can already give some advice (prices for minivans like Dodge Caravan or Ford Windstar, although they depend heavily on the location. Just so you have an idea of the numbers.)

• If lights are on the dashboard (like check engine or alarm break), it's likely something serious, repairs could cost up to $1500 for an average car. Although it might be cheaper.

• If the parking brake light comes on when braking, you probably need to change one of the brakes. That is, $200-300. Although it might not be the case (just a faulty sensor, then it's cheaper. Or, conversely, some misalignment of the whole system, then it's expensive..)

• If the car jerks when starting or shifting gears - the motor mount is not in order, about $300.

• Check the belt on the engine, it shouldn't be rusty or look limp. Otherwise, if it snaps, you could fly off the highway and then have to pick yourself up in the nearest bushes. Costs about $100.

• Check the tires for micro-cracks. If all tires are covered in small cracks or the tread level in the middle and on the sides is very different, they need to be changed. ($300 - 4 tires, that's even expensive). We didn't do this, and miraculously stayed alive (it happened in Florida). Also, check the tire pressure. This is done with a special gauge, you'll find it at any gas station/shop. We were given 2 for free. When releasing air from the tire through it, it should show a value of 35.

• Check the coolant level (it's blue or green, there's only one like that). It should at least be visible.

• Calculate the average consumption (distance/gas spent). More than 15 liters per 100 km is already a disaster. Although, it depends on where you are going. Ours ate 9-10 per 100 km. A 7-seater minivan. Loaded.

• A/C is ARCH-DESIRABLE. I know people who drove without it. After 2 weeks, having driven across the whole country from East to West, they spent the last 2 days praying to get home soon. Although they were happy with the trip. Without it, you have to open the windows, which at speeds above 100 km/h is terrible noise, making it impossible to chat or listen to music. And sometimes it's even hotter outside than inside (Arizona=)).

We drove for about 45 days and grew to love it like our own home. If you are going on a long trip - don't think you're made of iron, look for a ride with comfortable seats and decent ventilation. After all, it's usually hot in the desert.

The car buying process is extremely simple - you only need one A4-sized document: the Title. You sign it with the owner, they take the plates, you give the money for the keys and everything is okay. In South Carolina, registering a car at the Department of Motor Vehicles takes about 15 minutes, insurance is bought online like everything else. We bought it on the general.com website. It doesn't matter what country your license is from. You can drive the car right from the moment of purchase. Even without plates and insurance. Just be careful=)