How Much Does it Cost to Drive from Appleton, WI to Charlotte, NC?

Are you planning a road trip from Appleton, Wisconsin to Charlotte, North Carolina? If so, you'll need to plan ahead and budget for the cost of gas, tolls, and other expenses that come with driving long distances. In this post, we'll explore different routes, their lengths, travel time and cost estimates based on the current gas prices.

Route 1: I-94 E and I-75 S

This route is shortest and fastest, but note that it's not a direct route. You'll need to drive most of the way through Illinois and Kentucky.

Distance: 986 miles
Travel Time: 15 hours
Gas Price Estimate: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average gas price in Wisconsin is $2.44 per gallon. Based on this estimate, you'll need to budget around $120 for gas one-way.
Toll Price Estimate: You'll mainly encounter tolls in Indiana and Ohio on this route. Expect to spend around $23 on tolls one-way.

Route 2: I-90 E and I-77 S

This route is a longer distance, but it gives you the option to travel through Pennsylvania instead of Illinois and Kentucky.

Distance: 1,031 miles
Travel Time: 16.5 hours
Gas Price Estimate: Gas prices can vary from state to state, but you'll need to budget a similar amount of money for gas. Based on this estimate, you'll need to budget around $128 one-way.
Toll Price Estimate: You will encounter tolls in several states along this route, including Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Expect to spend around $44 on tolls one-way.

Route 3: I-94 E, I-69 S, and I-75 S

This route is a little more indirect, but it gives you the option to drive through Michigan instead of Illinois.

Distance: 1,049 miles
Travel Time: 16.5 hours
Gas Price Estimate: Based on the average gas price in Michigan, which is about $2.47 per gallon, you'll need to budget around $129 for gas one-way.
Toll Price Estimate: Toll prices can add up quickly on this route, especially in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Expect to spend around $50 one-way.

No matter which route you take, plan to fill up on gas every 300 to 400 miles and budget extra for food, lodging, and any other unforeseen expenses that may occur. Driving to Charlotte, North Carolina from Appleton, Wisconsin is an exciting adventure, but there are still costs to consider before embarking on the journey.