Cross-country is a whole 'nother ball game. This type of flying introduces more variables that can go wrong, and you must be prepared. Preflight planning is the .best method of preparation. The longer its been since you flew cross-country, the more preparation you need to do. Make sure you know everything there is to know about your airplane, route of flight, and the enroute weather.
Weather is an important factor.
It is the primary cause of many general aviation accidents. Accidents which were preventable If the pilot had just turned around and returned home. Instead, pressonitis caught him. Many times, the pilot didn't have the instrument rating to fly in weather, but, continued anyway. Clouds make it tough to see mountains and other obstructions, as well as contribute to carburetor icing and reduced aircraft performance.