If you're looking for cheap aircraft, I'm assuming youre thinking about the 152s at universal.
Although i've never flown them, I have seen them and they look to be in good condition.
Their seneca is in far better condition than any at ADP.
ADP will allow you to go outside the Ca/Az/Nv zone if you ask. They just dont want people doing it without their knowledge.
If you are planning to do long distance cross countries, you will be subject to higher expenses though.
Schools offering wet aircraft hire will usually only reimburse you up to a certain ammount if you refuel away from the home field. This means that you'll be subject to an additional $0.25 - $1.00 per gallon. Trust me when I say that it adds up fast.
Something that in my opinion will be more constructive than long c-x flights anyway, is trying to land at as many airfields in one day as possible. The LA basin has some great airfields aswell as complex airspace. You can even land at LAX.
38 is my record, something to aim for if you feel inclined.