The Cost of a Road Trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Clearlake, California: Navigating Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be exciting and daunting at the same time. One of the crucial aspects of planning is to figure out the cost of the road trip. The primary expense will be fuel, and this cost varies from route to route, depending on the distance, terrain, and gas prices. In this article, we will examine the cost of a trip from Atlanta, Georgia, to Clearlake, California, based on the current gas prices. We will take a closer look at the different routes available, highlight the cost and distance of each route and recommend the best route.

Route Options

There are primarily two routes for driving from Atlanta, Georgia, to Clearlake, California. The first and most common is to take I-20 and I-10 and then head north on I-5. The other is to start on I-40 and merge with I-5. The total distance between the two cities is approximately 2,500 miles. Let's take a closer look at each route and their corresponding costs.

Route 1: I-20 and I-10 to I-5

The most popular route for driving from Atlanta to Clearlake is through I-20 and I-10 before turning north on I-5. The route is approximately 2,557 miles, making it slightly longer than the I-40 route. However, the I-20/I-10 route passes through some major cities, offering plenty of options for lodging, food, and fuel.

Starting in Atlanta, Georgia, the route follows I-20 west until Dallas, Texas, and then heads south on I-35E for a short stretch before merging with I-10 west until Los Angeles, California. After reaching the city of Lost Hills, turn north on I-5 and continue for 120 miles until you reach Clearlake. While the I-20/I-10 route is not the shortest route available, it is the most direct in terms of Interstate highways.

The total cost of the trip through the I-20 and I-10 route will vary depending on the gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Suppose your car can travel 22 miles per gallon (mpg) and gas prices average $2.554 a gallon (as of August 2021). In that case, you can expect to spend around $288 on gas for this route alone.

Route 2: I-40 to I-5

Another route you can take is to follow I-40 until you merge with I-5. This route is slightly shorter, with a distance of approximately 2,488 miles. However, it passes through long stretches of desert and sparsely populated areas, which means fewer options for food, fuel, and lodging.

Starting in Atlanta, Georgia, you head west on I-40, passing through several large cities, including Memphis and Oklahoma City. Continuing along I-40 west, you drive through New Mexico and Arizona and enter California, where you merge with I-5 and continue north until you reach Clearlake.

The distance may be shorter on this route, but the terrain and weather can impact your fuel economy. Suppose your car can travel 22 mpg and gas prices average $2.554 a gallon. In that case, you can expect to spend around $277 on gasoline.

Recommendations

Both routes have the advantages and disadvantages, and the recommended route depends on your priorities. If you prefer long drives with various attractions, restaurants, and gas stations along the way, the I-20 and I-10 route are the recommended route. However, If you are looking to arrive at Clearlake, California, in the least amount of time and are willing to drive through some long stretches of desert, the I-40 to I-5 route is the optimal choice.

Final Thoughts

Driving from Atlanta, Georgia, to Clearlake, California, can be a great adventure and life experience. By planning your route and knowing the costs, you can make the most of the journey. The trip may be slightly longer and more costly than other travel options, but it certainly offers a unique experience that flying or taking a train cannot compare. With the proper preparation and mindset, the road trip can be a cost-efficient and enjoyable way to discover the country.