The Cost of a Trip Between Amarillo, Texas and Fort Polk South, Louisiana Based on Current Gas Prices
If you’re planning a road trip between Amarillo, Texas and Fort Polk South, Louisiana, you might be wondering about the cost. With gas prices fluctuating, it can be challenging to estimate how much it will cost you to travel the approximately 600-mile journey. In this article, we’ll explore the different routes you can take and the cost associated with each one. We’ll also recommend the best route based on distance and affordability.
The Possible Routes and Their Distances
Before we get into the costs of the trip, let’s look at the different routes you can take. There are three primary routes:
- Route 1: US-287 S and I-45 S
- Route 2: US-84 E and I-45 S
- Route 3: US-84 E and US-171 S
Here’s a breakdown of the distance of each route:
| Route | Distance |
|---|---|
| Route 1 | Approximately 609 miles |
| Route 2 | Approximately 610 miles |
| Route 3 | Approximately 608 miles |
As you can see, there isn’t much of a difference in distance between the different routes. The most significant factor in choosing a route will be the cost.
The Cost of Each Route
Gas prices change frequently and vary based on location. For the purposes of this article, we’re using the most recent gas prices available as of September 2021. The following calculations are based on a 2021 Chevy Cruze that gets an average of 32 miles per gallon.
Route 1: US-287 S and I-45 S
The route begins on US-287 S and continues onto I-45 S. This route takes you through Wichita Falls and Houston. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of each leg of the trip:
- Amarillo, Texas to Wichita Falls, Texas (Approximately 161 miles): $27.98
- Wichita Falls, Texas to Houston, Texas (Approximately 355 miles): $61.64
- Houston, Texas to Fort Polk South, Louisiana (Approximately 93 miles): $16.17
The total cost of gas for this route is approximately $105.79.
Route 2: US-84 E and I-45 S
The route begins on US-84 E and continues onto I-45 S. This route takes you through Lubbock, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of each leg of the trip:
- Amarillo, Texas to Lubbock, Texas (Approximately 120 miles): $20.83
- Lubbock, Texas to Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (Approximately 322 miles): $55.90
- Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas to Houston, Texas (Approximately 239 miles): $41.54
- Houston, Texas to Fort Polk South, Louisiana (Approximately 93 miles): $16.17
The total cost of gas for this route is approximately $134.44.
Route 3: US-84 E and US-171 S
The route begins on US-84 E and continues onto US-171 S. This route takes you through Shreveport. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of each leg of the trip:
- Amarillo, Texas to Lubbock, Texas (Approximately 120 miles): $20.83
- Lubbock, Texas to Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (Approximately 322 miles): $55.90
- Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas to Shreveport, Louisiana (Approximately 192 miles): $33.33
- Shreveport, Louisiana to Fort Polk South, Louisiana (Approximately 96 miles): $16.68
The total cost of gas for this route is approximately $126.74.
The Best Route
Based on distance and affordability, Route 1 is the best route to take. While the difference in cost between the three routes may seem minimal, every penny counts on a road trip. Route 1 is also the quickest route, with an estimated travel time of around 9.5 hours. Keep in mind that other factors, such as traffic and road conditions, can impact the travel time.
Conclusion
With gas prices always changing, it can be challenging to estimate the cost of a road trip. However, with the information provided in this article, you can get a better idea of how much it will cost you to travel between Amarillo, Texas, and Fort Polk South, Louisiana. Route 1 is the most affordable and quickest route to take, with an estimated travel time of around 9.5 hours. As always, keep in mind that gas prices can change rapidly, so use these calculations as a guideline and be prepared for unexpected expenses. Happy travels!