Panasonic GS300 or 500
FOr more answers, try pana3ccdusers.com
For roadtripping, it is hard to sell out $1400 unless you crazy rich (heh, you may be!)
I bought a panasonic GS300. It is a great camera. IT is 3ccd and I added a mic to better sound. Pictures are excellent. GS500 has better low...