Road Trippin': Driving from Albuquerque to Hattiesburg

Are you planning a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Hattiesburg, Mississippi? Whether you're moving for work or simply want to explore, it's important to know what to expect on the road. Here's what you need to know about the different routes, distances, and travel times.

Fastest Routes: Taking the Interstates

If you're in a hurry, the fastest way is to take the I-40 E and I-20 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,100 miles and typically takes around 16 hours straight through without heavy traffic. With optimal traffic conditions, you can complete the journey in just 14 hours.

An alternative, and slightly shorter route, is to take I-10 E. This route clocks in at approximately 1,065 miles and takes about 15 hours driving time.

Slowest Routes: Taking the Scenic Route

While the fastest route is the most direct and efficient, it may not be the most enjoyable. Taking the slower scenic route allows you to see some of the beautiful scenery and landmarks of the South.

One option is to travel down the Route 66 and take a southern loop through Texas and Louisiana. This route covers around 1,300 miles, taking closer to 20 hours of driving. This route goes through Amarillo, San Antonio, Houston, and Baton Rouge.

Another scenic route is to travel down through Arizona and New Orleans before heading up to Hattiesburg. This route takes approximately 22 hours and covers roughly 1,500 miles.

Traffic Considerations: Leave Early

The best time to take any route is between Monday and Thursday early morning since there is less traffic. During peak hours (6-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.) and on weekends, traffic is likely to be slower. The route with the most traffic will be the I-10 E, especially if you're traveling close to major cities.

Because of the lengthy drive, you should be cautious when driving at night, especially on unfamiliar roads. If rush hour traffic or traffic accidents are common on your planned route, you should increase your travel time by about 20-30 percent to account for these delays.

Overall, if you're prepared for the distance and traffic, driving from Albuquerque to Hattiesburg can be a fun and adventurous experience. Whether you take the fast route or the scenic one, make sure to give yourself enough time to make stops and enjoy all the sights along the way!