Comparing the Cost of a Trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Concordia, Kansas: Finding the Most Affordable Route Based on Current Gas Prices

If you are planning a trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Concordia, Kansas, one of the key factors to consider is the cost of the journey. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it is essential to choose the most economical route to ensure a budget-friendly trip. In this article, we will break down the various possible routes, highlighting the costs and distances of each option, and ultimately recommend the best route to take based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Via I-40 and US-183

The first possible route is to travel eastward on I-40, and then head north on US-183. This route covers a total distance of approximately 765 miles. Let's calculate the estimated fuel cost for this journey based on the current gas prices.

Assuming the average car mileage is around 25 miles per gallon and the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon, the fuel cost for this route can be calculated as follows:

Fuel Cost = (Distance / Mileage) x Gas Price

Fuel Cost = (765 miles / 25 miles per gallon) x $2.50 per gallon Fuel Cost = 30.6 gallons x $2.50/gallon = $76.50

Therefore, based on the current gas prices, traveling from Albuquerque to Concordia via this route would cost approximately $76.50 in fuel.

Route 2: Via US-56

Another option is to take a slightly longer route, heading north on I-25 from Albuquerque before heading east on US-56. This route covers a total distance of approximately 860 miles. Let's calculate the estimated fuel cost for this journey.

Using the same assumptions of an average car mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a current gas price of $2.50 per gallon, the fuel cost for this route can be calculated as follows:

Fuel Cost = (860 miles / 25 miles per gallon) x $2.50 per gallon Fuel Cost = 34.4 gallons x $2.50/gallon = $86.00

Therefore, based on the current gas prices, traveling from Albuquerque to Concordia via this route would cost approximately $86.00 in fuel.

Route 3: Via US-54 and KS-14

A third option is to take a more southern route, heading east on I-40, south on US-54, and then east on KS-14. This route covers a total distance of approximately 795 miles. Let's now calculate the estimated fuel cost for this journey.

Using the same assumptions of an average car mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a current gas price of $2.50 per gallon, the fuel cost for this route can be calculated as follows:

Fuel Cost = (795 miles / 25 miles per gallon) x $2.50 per gallon Fuel Cost = 31.8 gallons x $2.50/gallon = $79.50

Therefore, based on the current gas prices, traveling from Albuquerque to Concordia via this route would cost approximately $79.50 in fuel.

Recommendation: The Most Affordable Route

After comparing the three available routes based on both distance and fuel cost, it is clear that the most affordable option is Route 1, which utilizes I-40 and US-183. With a total distance of 765 miles and a fuel cost of approximately $76.50, this route offers the best balance of cost and time.

One may argue that Route 3, using US-54 and KS-14, has a similar fuel cost of $79.50 but covers a slightly longer distance of 795 miles. However, this can be counterbalanced by the fact that I-40 is a more convenient and faster road compared to US-54, making Route 1 more time-efficient.

Another viable route, Route 2, which takes the journey via I-25 and US-56, covers a greater distance of 860 miles and has a higher fuel cost of approximately $86.00. Therefore, unless there are specific reasons to choose this route, it is less economical compared to the other options available.

Conclusion

To summarize, when planning a trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Concordia, Kansas, it's essential to consider the cost of the journey based on current gas prices. After evaluating the three possible routes, it is recommended to choose Route 1, utilizing I-40 and US-183, as it offers the most affordable and time-efficient option.

The trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Concordia, Kansas, via this recommended route takes approximately X hours, depending on factors like traffic and rest stops. Nonetheless, by carefully considering the cost and distance of each route, travelers can make a wise decision that not only saves them money but also provides a smooth and enjoyable journey.