Driving Cost from Arlington, Virginia to Kansas City, Missouri

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The Cost of a Trip between Arlington, Virginia and Kansas City, Missouri

Driving from Arlington, Virginia to Kansas City, Missouri can be an exciting and adventurous road trip. However, before embarking on this journey, it's important to consider the cost of the trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, their distances, and the estimated costs associated with each one. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of the best route to choose based on the current gas prices.

Possible Routes

When it comes to driving from Arlington, Virginia to Kansas City, Missouri, there are a few possible routes to consider. Let's explore each one in detail:

Route 1: I-70

One of the most common routes people take for this journey is via Interstate 70 (I-70). This route stretches for approximately 1,000 miles and provides a relatively direct path from Arlington to Kansas City. Along the way, you'll pass through various states, including Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. The estimated driving time for this route is around 16 hours.

Route 2: I-68 and I-79

Another option is to take a slightly longer but more scenic route via Interstate 68 (I-68) and Interstate 79 (I-79). This route adds some extra miles to your trip, but it offers breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains. Starting in Arlington, you'll head west on I-68 and then connect to I-79. Finally, you'll join I-70 and continue your journey to Kansas City. The total distance for this route is around 1,100 miles, with an estimated driving time of 17 hours.

Route 3: I-66 and I-64

For those looking to explore some of Virginia's beautiful landscapes, taking Route 3 could be a great choice. This route combines Interstate 66 (I-66) and Interstate 64 (I-64) before connecting to I-70 in West Virginia. While this route may be slightly longer, spanning around 1,300 miles, it allows you to witness the charm of Virginia and enjoy some scenic drives. The estimated driving time for this route is approximately 19 hours.

The Cost of the Trip

Now that we have discussed the possible routes, it's time to delve into the estimated costs associated with each option. To calculate the cost, we need to consider current gas prices and the average fuel efficiency of vehicles.

As of October 2021, the average gas price in the United States is around $3.25 per gallon. Remember that gas prices can vary significantly over time and across different regions. Additionally, the fuel efficiency of your vehicle will impact the total cost of the trip. Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), let's calculate the estimated cost for each route:

Route 1: I-70

The distance for Route 1 is approximately 1,000 miles. With an average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you would require 40 gallons of gas for the entire journey. Multiplying the number of gallons by the gas price per gallon ($3.25), the estimated cost for this route is $130.

Route 2: I-68 and I-79

This route spans around 1,100 miles. Using the same fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you would need 44 gallons of gas. Multiplying this by the current gas price ($3.25), the estimated cost for Route 2 is $143.

Route 3: I-66 and I-64

Lastly, Route 3 covers a distance of approximately 1,300 miles. With an average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you would require 52 gallons of gas. At the current gas price of $3.25 per gallon, the estimated cost for this route is $169.

Now that we have examined the costs and distances associated with each route, it's time to recommend the best option. Based on the shortest distance and relatively direct path, Route 1 via I-70 is the most efficient choice for a road trip between Arlington, Virginia and Kansas City, Missouri.

Although the difference in miles between the routes may seem negligible, it's important to consider the overall driving time and the potential fatigue that may come with it. Route 1 offers a manageable 16-hour drive and allows for regular breaks and rest stops along the way. Moreover, the estimated cost of $130 is relatively affordable compared to other routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you're planning a road trip from Arlington, Virginia to Kansas City, Missouri, it's essential to consider the cost of the trip, especially in relation to current gas prices. After evaluating the different possible routes, we recommend taking Route 1 via I-70 for its efficiency and affordability.

With an estimated cost of around $130 and a driving time of approximately 16 hours, this route provides a direct path, allowing for a convenient and enjoyable journey. Whether you're looking to experience scenic drives, explore charming towns, or simply enjoy the open road, this road trip between Arlington and Kansas City offers a memorable adventure.