The Cost of a Trip Between Amarillo, Texas and Knoxville, Tennessee
Introduction
Planning a road trip from Amarillo, Texas to Knoxville, Tennessee? Apart from considering the distance, it's wise to also take into account the cost of the journey, particularly the expenses related to fuel prices. Gas costs can vary significantly depending on the route you choose and current market conditions. In this article, we will explore the various possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one, helping you make an informed decision for your upcoming adventure.
Route Options and Cost Analysis
Route 1: I-40 East
The most straightforward and commonly chosen route for this trip is to take Interstate 40 East from Amarillo to Knoxville. This route covers a distance of approximately 987 miles and typically takes around 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and your preferred stops along the way. But what about the cost?
With gas prices fluctuating, it's essential to estimate the expenditure based on both the total mileage and the current average gas price. As of writing this article, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Texas is $2.70 per gallon, while in Tennessee it stands at $2.80 per gallon. Considering that the average fuel efficiency of a car on the highway is around 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate the approximate cost for this route.
The distance between Amarillo and Knoxville is 987 miles, which translates to roughly 39.48 gallons of fuel. Considering an average gas price of $2.75 per gallon, the cost of fuel for this route would amount to approximately $108.90 (39.48 gallons x $2.75 per gallon).
Route 2: I-44 East
If you're open to exploring alternative routes, you might consider taking Interstate 44 East from Amarillo to Knoxville. This route spans a slightly longer distance of approximately 1,040 miles, which would add roughly 53 miles to your trip compared to Route 1.
While the extra mileage might seem daunting, it's crucial to consider the potential savings or additional expenses related to gas prices along this route. The average gas prices in the states that I-44 passes through are relatively similar to those in Texas, which can help ease your fuel cost concerns. However, since there are more miles to cover, it's important to estimate the cost.
Based on the same average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and an average gas price of $2.75 per gallon, the approximate cost for this route would be approximately $118.64 (43.23 gallons x $2.75 per gallon).
Route 3: I-40 and I-75 North
Another possible route from Amarillo to Knoxville is to use a combination of Interstate 40 and Interstate 75 North. This route offers a distance of approximately 1,030 miles, making it a close contender to Route 2 in terms of mileage.
When calculating the cost for this route, it's worth noting that gas prices can vary across different regions. While the Texas gas prices remain the same, the states passed through by I-40 and I-75 North have an average gas price of $2.85 per gallon. Let's assess the fuel expenditure for this option.
Considering an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and an average gas price of $2.85 per gallon, the approximate cost for this route would be around $117.06 (41.05 gallons x $2.85 per gallon).
Recommendation: The Best Route
After evaluating the three routes, it becomes apparent that the most cost-effective option is Route 1: I-40 East. This route not only offers the shortest distance, but it also passes through states with lower gas prices compared to Route 3, resulting in potential savings. Moreover, while Route 2 may seem appealing due to its slightly shorter driving time compared to Route 1, the added fuel cost makes it less preferable for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when planning a journey from Amarillo, Texas to Knoxville, Tennessee, it's essential to consider the cost implications alongside the distance. By opting for Route 1 on Interstate 40 East, you can enjoy a relatively inexpensive trip. The approximate distance of 987 miles can be covered within a timeframe of 14 to 16 hours, provided you account for potential stops and traffic conditions.
Safe travels and enjoy your expedition from the beautiful plains of Amarillo, Texas to the charming city of Knoxville, Tennessee!
Note: Gas prices mentioned in this article are hypothetical and subject to change. Always check and compare current gas prices before embarking on your trip.