I've only ever traveled for two quilt shows since I haven't been doing it that long, and I do look forward to seeing the quilts some just boggle my mind and I love to look at it, but wouldn't want to attempt lol
I take photos of the quilts I really like and hope to do at some point and they go into my inspiration binder. I cut out the patterns from quilt magazines of projects and fabric ads. I also like going around to the different vendors & checking out the different fabrics. I make a note of which ones to go back to after I check out all the other's prices.
I would ask the auntie and sister to come to you, why should you have to do all the driving, ask them to take an extra day or two and come visit you or come pick you up and take you to the show?