The most burning question of all, how do we keep from getting bored? During the drive, play fun driving games which include using the surroundings and places you pass. In the car, keep plenty of games, movies, and activities for the kids. My father and I had a washboard, kazoo, and harmonica that we would break out from time to time. Most importantly, plan your trip around historic places and points of interest in the small towns. Prepare the night before a route to include these stops.
Even though road trips may be seen as a more cost-effective mode of transportation and less as a vacation, you still can make it into a memorable and hopefully fun trip for years to come. Good luck on the open the road!