The Cost of a Road Trip from Auburn, Alabama to Charlotte, North Carolina: Exploring Route Options

Taking a road trip from Auburn, Alabama to Charlotte, North Carolina is an exciting way to explore the South. There are many possible routes that vary in length, time and cost. This article aims to provide you with information on the different route options, their distances and approximate costs based on current gas prices. With this information, you can make an informed decision on which route to take, depending on your budget and time constraints.

Route One: Interstate 85

The most direct route from Auburn to Charlotte is via Interstate 85. This route is approximately 372 miles and takes about 5.5 hours to complete. The estimated cost of gasoline required to drive this route is around $50-$60, depending on vehicle make, fuel economy, and gas prices at the time of your trip.

Not only is this route the shortest, but it is also the fastest, taking you through major cities like Atlanta, Georgia and Greenville, South Carolina along the way. You could even make pit stops in Atlanta to see the World of Coca-Cola or the Georgia Aquarium, which are great family-friendly attractions. Do keep in mind, however, that driving through busy cities may add a bit of time to your trip.

Route Two: Scenic Route via US-280 and US-1

If you are looking for a more scenic route to Charlotte, you may want to consider taking US Highway 280 towards Columbus, Georgia and eventually US Highway 1, which would take you through Raleigh, North Carolina, before reaching Charlotte.

This route is approximately 490 miles and takes about 8 hours to complete. The estimated gas cost for this route is about $70-$80, depending on gas prices at the time. However, driving through Georgia's Appalachians and North Carolina's pine forests offers picturesque panoramic views, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers.

Route Three: Coastal Route via I-10 and I-95

The longest route from Auburn to Charlotte is via the coastal highway of I-10 and I-95. This route takes you along the Gulf Coast and offers scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. However, it has plenty of stops and detours, which can make the drive longer.

This route is approximately 855 miles and takes about 12.5 hours to complete. The estimated gas cost for this route is around $110-$120, depending on gas prices at the time. While the drive offers beautiful views of the ocean, it can be tiring for the driver and passengers as there are many opportunities for distractions. It is an ideal route for those who want to leisurely explore the small towns and beaches along the coast or who want to take a ferry or drive across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.

Best Route: Interstate 85

Interstate 85 is the best route to take from Auburn to Charlotte. Not only is it the shortest, but it is also the fastest and most affordable route. You can reach Charlotte in about 5.5 hours and estimate the cost of gasoline to be around $50-$60, saving you both time and money. If you are in a hurry, or just want to reach Charlotte as soon as possible, this route is ideal.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Auburn, Alabama to Charlotte, North Carolina can be an exciting adventure with many possible routes to explore. While the coastal route via I-10 and I-95 may be the most scenic drive, it is also the longest and most expensive. The US-280 and US-1 route is a great way to sightsee nature, but it also adds more time and cost to your trip. For the most affordable and fastest route, Interstate 85 is the clear choice. Whichever route you choose, remember to drive safely and have fun exploring the beautiful scenery of the South.