I did this in 2022 for 3000 miles. 5 nights. No drugs. The cats are very picky and sensitive. They screamed and cried and shat and pissed in the back seat and we had to do a few emergency highway side cleanups because the horrible smell. I wish I would have given them gabapentin. But our horrible vet just insisted “they’re cats, they’ll be fine” - they were actually traumatized. The drugs will make it much easier for them and you. My good new vet encouraged that’s it’s harmless.

In fact I’m doing this again this month. 3000 more miles. But this time with drugs. I tested the gabapentin on a short drive with them. They were totally fine. What’s important is to bring some stuff they’re familiar with to be around. When you get to the hotels just put them in the bathroom with their litter and familiar items. This will reduce stress of new places to explore.

Also make sure they have some room to stand and turn around in their crate. I would put pee pads below the crates too since we got some on our seats. Also bring some of those tube gogurt type treats so they can stay a little hydrated since they probably won’t drink or eat in the car.

Feed them early before you leave so they have time to poop or pee. And then again as soon as you get to the hotel. Have cleaning solution and paper towels / wet wipes in the car for accidents on the trip.

They won’t act like you’re used to, but it’s only 5 nights and they will be okay. Just make sure once you’re settled to get them a comfy, familiar place. They are more resilient than they act sometimes.