> I've got a cat who hates traveling, and we are best friends

Awww! I'm in a similar situation. Have you considered getting a small camper van and customizing it for the cat (litterbox, water dish, food station etc) and travelling around the country in that. Would save on hotels also and once you are done, you can sell the van and made back most of your $ invested in purchasing it. I'm toying with this idea.