Use a crate or a doggy seat belt whenever you are transporting your dog by car. There are plenty of comfortable and convenient belts now on the market. Crates require your pup to be separated from you during the trip but allows your dog a cozy, safe space of his own. The crate can also be used when you reach your destination so your dog can be left alone in a hotel room. If you have tight quarters in your car, a doggy seat belt is probably the best way to go.
When stopping at rest stops avoid small pet potty areas where there is fresh excrement. Dog feces carry a lot of diseases and these areas can be dangerous to your dog, especially if he young, elderly, or immuno-compromised in some way. Do be sure to clean up after your dog and carry plastic bags with you for this purpose.
And remember, never leave your dog alone in a hot car, even for a minute. The temperature inside a car can increase rapidly and dogs can quickly overheat, leading to heat stroke or even death. Short-nosed dogs such as pugs and bulldogs are at special risk when left in cars, but all dogs can become victims.
