My wife and I start a new travel contract in San Leandro, CA (Bay area) on January 2. We are coming from New Hampshire and this is our first contract outside the northeast region.

Our big issue is what to do about transportation. The apartment we found is outside of walking distance, and it seems like public transportation is not great. The options we've come up with so far are:

1.) Driving our car. The downsides: we both hate driving long distances, and it is about a 46-hour drive according to Google Maps.

2.) Fly and have our car shipped (shipping would be $1300). Downside: expensive.

3.) Fly, and rent a car, also expensive.

Does anyone who has traveled across the country have any input on these options, or have any better ideas? Any help is greatly appreciated.