Hot Rod Power Tour First Timer

[427.060]

The Power Tour is in my area this year. It starts Near Atlanta then goes to Columbia SC, Rockingham NC, Charlotte and ends in Bristol Tn. It is something that I have wanted to do so I have decided that this will be the year. I have already made my motel reservations. I know there are guys here that have done the tour before. One thing I already know that will be a problem in the temperature. My car doesn't have AC so it will be hot. I am in the process of making a couple upgrades to the car getting ready for the drive. I had a new engine built an installed 5 or 6 years ago. It is a .070 over 427 with almost 550 hp. It was built by Fulton Competition. It gets around 8 mpg running 93 octane so I know I'll be spending a good bit on gas.

Any suggestions for a first timer? I am planning on taking a few things with me like some tools, spare tire, floor jack, belts and radiator hoses, coolant and a cooler for drinks and snacks. What else should I take?

What time is best for leaving one location and heading to the next? I plan to go the Atlanta on Sunday before the tour starts.

I am really looking forward to this.

Thanks, James