The Cost of Driving from Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut

Are you planning a road trip from Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut? It's essential to consider the cost of gas and tolls when planning a road trip. In this post, we'll break down the cost of driving from Ames to Waterbury based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-80 E and I-84 E

The most direct route from Ames to Waterbury is via I-80 E and I-84 E. The 1,130-mile journey would take around 16 hours of driving time. Based on the average gas price of $2.50 per gallon and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of gas for the trip will be approximately $180.

There are three tolls on this route: in Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Each toll costs around $10, so the total cost of tolls will be $30.

Overall, the total cost of the trip via I-80 E and I-84 E is approximately $210.

Route 2: I-80 E and I-90 E

Another option is to take I-80 E and I-90 E. While this route is longer at 1,200 miles, it is less toll-heavy and may be cheaper overall. The estimated driving time for this route is around 18 hours.

Based on the same gas price and fuel efficiency, the cost of gas for the trip will be about $216.

There is only one toll on this route, in Ohio, which costs around $10. Therefore, the total cost of tolls will be $10.

In total, the estimated cost of this route is around $226.

Route 3: I-70 E and I-76 E

Finally, you can take I-70 E and I-76 E, which is the longest of the three routes, at 1,290 miles. This route goes through Pennsylvania and New York as opposed to Ohio. The estimated driving time for this route is around 19 hours.

Using the same gas price and fuel efficiency, the cost of gas for the trip will be approximately $252.

There are three tolls on this route. The first toll is in Illinois and costs about $10, the second toll is in Pennsylvania and costs about $20, and the third toll is in Connecticut, costing around $6. Therefore the total cost of tolls is $36.

In total, the estimated cost of this route is around $288.

Conclusion

Overall, the total cost of driving from Ames, Iowa to Waterbury, Connecticut varies based on the route taken, but it's safe to budget around $200-300 for gas and tolls. It's always wise to have a buffer amount in case of emergency or unforeseen circumstances. Hopefully, this cost breakdown will help you plan an affordable and enjoyable road trip from Ames to Waterbury!