Plan the long drive in stages
A common path runs south on I-65 through Birmingham and Montgomery, then continues toward Panama City Beach on US-231 or the best current GPS-selected route. Traffic and road work can change the final path.
- Plan for roughly 457 to 459 miles, depending on the exact starting point.
- Confirm the final route shortly before departure.
- Add time for fuel, food, restrooms, and student transitions.

