Road Trip from Austin, TX to Mount Pleasant, SC: How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Austin, TX to Mount Pleasant, SC? Whether this is a move, a visit with friends or family, or just a fun adventure, the first question that pops up is likely "How long will it take?" That's why we're here to break it down for you!

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route is via I-10 E and I-95 N. This route covers a distance of approximately 1243 miles and it will take you around 18 hours to get there, without stops. However, if you're not in a hurry, you can take the slow route via I-20 E and I-95 N which is around 1302 miles long and will take you around 20 hours of driving time.

Traffic Patterns

The best thing about hitting the road is the freedom you have to make your own choices. The downside is that traffic in certain areas is unpredictable. If you can time your drive with less traffic, you will enjoy the scenery and destinations along the way more fully. The best time to drive is either early morning before the rush hour or late at night when traffic has died down. In that way, you can shave hours off your drive.

The worst times to travel this route are during peak travel times. Before and during the holidays, between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends – passing through cities like Houston and Atlanta can ruin your trip. If you drive during peak traffic times, which are usually during the morning and evening rush hours, be prepared to add additional time to your trip.

Drive Time Calculations

If you're planning to make the trip in one go, you will want to calculate the driving time very carefully. For the fastest route, the drive time without stops will be around 18 hours, but this can change dramatically depending on the time of day you drive. During peak traffic periods, expect that time to increase by at least a couple of hours. On the slowest route, expect to add one or two additional hours to the drive time. As always, factor in time for rest stops and meals too.

Conclusion

Driving from Austin, Texas to Mount Pleasant, South Carolina can be an adventure, if you have the time and the right attitude. By breaking down the fastest and slowest routes and looking at the traffic patterns, we hope you can plan your trip to maximize your enjoyment. Before you hit the road, remember to pack snacks and water, and make sure your vehicle is ready for the long trip. Have fun on the road!