Are long distance road trips hard on a car and a few other questions about the experience.?

I drive about the same as you with an occasional long trip and usually never have any problems. This past year I did have my front brakes wear down on a 100 mile trip. I made it home, but the rotors were trashed. I would check the brakes, especially going out west. I ume at 1800 miles you will be crossing the Rockies. You will need good brakes. The waterpump can go at any time and it doesn't give a warning. All the hills will be hard on the transmission. If you plan on going soon, there will be snow in the Rockies and you might have to put chains on to make it through. That will be tough on the drive train. I would also check or change the belts and hoses. If you are really worried about your car, have you looked into renting a vehicle to make the trip?