The Cost to Drive from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida: Current Gas Prices and Route Options
Road trips are an incredible way to explore new places, create memories with friends or family, and see the country up close and personal. While flying may be faster, driving gives you the opportunity to stop and smell the roses (or experience the iconic roadside attractions, if that's more your style). If you're considering driving from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida, it's important to know the cost of gas, tolls, and other expenses associated with the trip.
Route Options
There are a few different route options to choose from when driving from Anchorage to Fort Myers, but they all have one thing in common: a lot of miles. Here are three options, along with their distance, estimated time, and cost:
Route 1: The Alaska Highway and Trans-Canada Highway
- Distance: Approximately 5,600 miles
- Estimated time: 97 hours (without stops)
- Estimated cost: $1,134 for gas (assuming $4.00 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon)
This route takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Canada. You'll encounter breathtaking mountains, vast wilderness, and charming towns along the way. However, it's also the longest and most expensive route, due to the distance and higher gas prices in Canada.
Route 2: The Parks Highway, Glenn Highway, and Alcan Highway
- Distance: Approximately 4,900 miles
- Estimated time: 85 hours (without stops)
- Estimated cost: $980 for gas (assuming $4.00 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon)
This route is slightly shorter and less expensive than Route 1, but still takes you through some stunning scenery. You'll drive through Denali National Park, the Matanuska Glacier, and the Yukon Territory, to name a few highlights.
Route 3: The Alcan Highway and Interstate 75
- Distance: Approximately 4,800 miles
- Estimated time: 83 hours (without stops)
- Estimated cost: $960 for gas (assuming $4.00 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon)
- Toll cost: Approximately $82.20
This route takes you through the same stretches of the Alcan Highway as Route 2, but then you'll hop on Interstate 75 in Georgia and head south to Florida. It's the shortest drive and the least expensive of the three options.
When considering which route to take, it's important to weigh the cost and time factors with what you want to see and experience along the way.
Other Expenses
In addition to gas and tolls, there are a few other expenses to keep in mind when planning your road trip:
- Lodging: Depending on how quickly you want to make the trip, you may need to budget for overnight stays. The cost of lodging varies widely depending on the city and level of accommodation, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 per night.
- Food and drinks: This will be another ongoing expense, and could vary widely depending on your eating habits. Pack snacks and drinks to avoid high restaurant costs along the way.
- Vehicle maintenance: You'll want to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before setting out on such a long journey. This may include getting an oil change, rotating tires, and checking your brakes and battery.
Conclusion
The cost of driving from Anchorage, Alaska to Fort Myers, Florida varies depending on the route you choose and other expenses you may encounter along the way. Regardless of which route you take, it's a long and beautiful journey that you'll remember for years to come. Just be sure to budget accordingly and enjoy the ride!