I include (in my performance fee) travel to anywhere within 15 miles of where I live. The 2004 Federal IRS automobile per diem allowance is currently 37.5 cents/mile, so I simply charge this same rate for anything BEYOND 15 miles. If the gig location is 50 miles away, then I simply charge $26.25 (35 miles x 2 = 70 miles) as travel expense. My clients never have a problem with this arrangement, even commending me for my fairness & honesty, especially after they realize I'm charging NO MORE than the IRS standard auto mileage allowance.

On another note, I want to stress how CRUCIALLY IMPORTANT it is to maintain & document an accurate log of all business travel miles made with your car.

Scott