Driving Cost from Afton, Minnesota to Washington, District of Columbia

A picture depicting a gas pump

Road Trip Alert: The Cost of Driving from Afton, Minnesota to Washington, District of Columbia

Planning a long road trip can be daunting, but it can also be incredibly exciting. Driving from Afton, Minnesota to Washington, District of Columbia is one of those trips that can bring out both feelings. Before you pack your bags, get behind the wheel, pump your gas, and hit the road, it’s good to plan your route properly. The cost of gas and tolls is essential to your budget so let’s take a look at the current gas prices and the different routes you have at your disposal.

The Northern Route: Driving via I-94 East, I-69 South, and I-70 East

The total distance of this route is a staggering 1,102 miles, which will take you approximately 16-18 hours (depending on traffic). However, the difference in gas and toll prices can be quite substantial. Let’s break it down:

  • Gas: The average gas price on this route is around $2.50 per gallon, so the total cost of gas won’t exceed $200. Note that gas prices vary, and this price is as of 2021.
  • Tolls: You will have to pay tolls on some parts of this route, and they can be quite expensive, especially in Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. The total cost of tolls is around $60.

The Central Route: Driving via I-70 East

This route is shorter, more straightforward, and will take you approximately 16-18 hours. Let’s take a look at the cost breakdown:

  • Gas: The average gas price on this route is around $2.40 per gallon, so the total cost of gas won’t exceed $190.
  • Tolls: You will have to pay tolls on some parts of this route, and they can be quite expensive. The total cost of tolls is around $50.

The Southern Route: Driving via I-35 South and I-44 East

This route is longer, around 1,238 miles, and will take longer, about 19-21 hours. However, it can be cheaper in terms of gas and toll costs. Here's the breakdown:

  • Gas: The average gas price on this route is around $2.30 per gallon, and the total cost won't exceed $240.
  • Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.

Conclusion

When it comes to planning a road trip, the easiest or shortest route isn't always the cheapest. The distance, gas prices, and tolls vary from one route to another, ultimately impacting the total cost of your trip. Therefore, it’s good to weigh the pros and cons of each route before making a final decision. While the Northern route might be the shortest, the total cost of gas and tolls can well exceed other options. The Southern route might be longer, but the total cost of the trip may be more affordable.

When planning your road trip, take the time to research the gas prices and tolls along each route. With that information at your disposal, you can now make an informed decision and embark on your Afton to Washington adventure!