The Cost of a Trip between Atoka, Tennessee and Summerville, South Carolina: Exploring Routes and Gas Expenses
Introduction
Planning a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to consider various factors such as distance, time, and most importantly, the cost of the journey. In this article, we will explore different routes between Atoka, Tennessee and Summerville, South Carolina, highlighting the distance and cost associated with each one. By understanding the potential expenses, you can make an informed decision and ensure a well-budgeted and enjoyable trip.
Route Options
Route 1: Interstate 40 E and Interstate 75 S

Taking Interstate 40 East and then merging onto Interstate 75 South is one of the most direct routes between Atoka and Summerville. The distance of this route is approximately 530 miles, and it takes around 8 hours to complete the journey.
To calculate the gas expenses, we need to consider the average fuel efficiency of your vehicle and the current gas prices. Let's assume your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 28 miles per gallon (mpg), and the current gas prices are $2.50 per gallon. Using this information, we can estimate the fuel cost for this route by dividing the total distance (530 miles) by the average fuel efficiency (28 mpg) and multiplying it by the gas price ($2.50 per gallon).
- Total Distance: 530 miles
- Average Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg
- Gas Price: $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = (Total Distance / Average Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price
Fuel Cost = (530 miles / 28 mpg) * $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = 18.93 gallons * $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = $47.33
Therefore, the estimated fuel cost for Route 1 is approximately $47.33.
Route 2: Interstate 55 S and Interstate 20 E

Another alternative route is taking Interstate 55 South and then merging onto Interstate 20 East. This route covers a distance of approximately 600 miles and takes around 9 hours to complete.
Using the same fuel efficiency (28 mpg) and gas prices ($2.50 per gallon) as before, we can calculate the estimated fuel cost for Route 2:
- Total Distance: 600 miles
- Average Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg
- Gas Price: $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = (Total Distance / Average Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price
Fuel Cost = (600 miles / 28 mpg) * $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = 21.43 gallons * $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = $53.58
Therefore, the estimated fuel cost for Route 2 is approximately $53.58.
Route 3: Interstate 40 E and US-78 E

For a more scenic or flexible option, you can consider taking Interstate 40 East and then transitioning to US-78 East. This route has a distance of approximately 580 miles and takes around 9 hours and 30 minutes to complete.
To calculate the fuel cost for Route 3, we will use the same fuel efficiency (28 mpg) and gas prices ($2.50 per gallon) as before:
- Total Distance: 580 miles
- Average Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg
- Gas Price: $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = (Total Distance / Average Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price
Fuel Cost = (580 miles / 28 mpg) * $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = 20.71 gallons * $2.50 per gallon
Fuel Cost = $51.78
Therefore, the estimated fuel cost for Route 3 is approximately $51.78.
Recommended Route: Interstate 40 E and Interstate 75 S (Route 1)
Considering the distance (530 miles) and fuel cost ($47.33) associated with each route, it is clear that the most cost-effective option is Route 1: taking Interstate 40 East and then merging onto Interstate 75 South. This route not only offers the shortest distance and travel time but also minimizes your expenses on gas.
The combination of Interstate 40 and Interstate 75 ensures a straightforward and efficient journey, with well-maintained roads and ample services along the way. Additionally, this route avoids major city traffic congestion, enhancing your overall driving experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when planning a trip between Atoka, Tennessee and Summerville, South Carolina, it is vital to consider the cost of the journey, especially with fluctuating gas prices. By analyzing different route options and calculating the fuel expenses based on your vehicle's average fuel efficiency and current gas prices, you can make an informed decision and budget your trip effectively.
From our analysis, Route 1: Interstate 40 East and Interstate 75 South is the recommended route due to its optimal distance and lower fuel cost. This route covers approximately 530 miles and incurs an estimated fuel cost of $47.33 using an assumed fuel efficiency of 28 mpg and a gas price of $2.50 per gallon. The travel time for this route is around 8 hours.
So, plan your road trip wisely, considering both the cost and overall journey experience, and enjoy the scenic drive from Atoka to Summerville!