The Cost of a Trip Between Aurora, Illinois and Portsmouth, Virginia

If you're considering a road trip from Aurora, Illinois to Portsmouth, Virginia, it's wise to plan ahead and consider the cost of fuel as it can make a significant impact on your travel expenses. Gas prices vary, and it's important to factor in the cost of fuel when calculating the overall expenses of your trip. In this article, we'll explore the different possible routes between these two cities and highlight the cost and distance of each one. Let's dive in!

Route 1: I-90 E and I-80 E

One possible route is taking I-90 E and then merging onto I-80 E. This is a popular choice for many travelers. The distance between Aurora, Illinois and Portsmouth, Virginia using this route is approximately 865 miles.

Gas Prices

To calculate the fuel cost, we need to know the average gas prices along this route. As of July 2021, the average price of regular gas in Illinois is $3.15 per gallon, while in Virginia, it is slightly lower at $2.95 per gallon.

Fuel Consumption

The fuel consumption of your vehicle plays a crucial role in determining the cost of the trip. Let's assume the average fuel consumption of a typical car on the highway is 25 miles per gallon.

Calculation

To calculate the cost of the trip, we divide the total distance by the average fuel consumption and then multiply it by the gas price per gallon in each state.

Distance: 865 miles
Average Fuel Consumption: 25 miles per gallon
Gas Price in Illinois: $3.15 per gallon
Gas Price in Virginia: $2.95 per gallon

Gas Cost (Illinois): 865 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $3.15 per gallon = $108.36
Gas Cost (Virginia): 865 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.95 per gallon = $102.86
Total Gas Cost: $108.36 + $102.86 = $211.22

Based on current gas prices, the estimated cost of the trip using Route 1 would be approximately $211.22.

Route 2: I-55 S and I-64 E

Another possible route is taking I-55 S and then merging onto I-64 E. This route offers scenic views as you pass through different states on your way to Portsmouth, Virginia. The total distance using this route is approximately 892 miles.

Gas Prices

As mentioned earlier, the average gas prices in Illinois and Virginia are $3.15 per gallon and $2.95 per gallon, respectively.

Fuel Consumption

Assuming the same average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

Calculation

Distance: 892 miles
Average Fuel Consumption: 25 miles per gallon
Gas Price in Illinois: $3.15 per gallon
Gas Price in Virginia: $2.95 per gallon

Gas Cost (Illinois): 892 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $3.15 per gallon = $100.06
Gas Cost (Virginia): 892 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.95 per gallon = $93.68
Total Gas Cost: $100.06 + $93.68 = $193.74

Based on current gas prices, the estimated cost of the trip using Route 2 would be approximately $193.74.

Route 3: I-80 E and I-74 E

For those looking to explore more parts of the Midwest, an alternative route is taking I-80 E and then merging onto I-74 E. This route adds some extra miles to the trip but provides you with an opportunity to enjoy scenic landscapes along the way. The total distance using this route is approximately 918 miles.

Gas Prices

Let's assume the average gas prices in Illinois and Virginia remain the same as mentioned earlier.

Fuel Consumption

Assuming the same average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

Calculation

Distance: 918 miles
Average Fuel Consumption: 25 miles per gallon
Gas Price in Illinois: $3.15 per gallon
Gas Price in Virginia: $2.95 per gallon

Gas Cost (Illinois): 918 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $3.15 per gallon = $107.05
Gas Cost (Virginia): 918 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.95 per gallon = $100.82
Total Gas Cost: $107.05 + $100.82 = $207.87

Based on current gas prices, the estimated cost of the trip using Route 3 would be approximately $207.87.

Recommended Route

After analyzing the different routes and their associated costs, Route 2 (I-55 S and I-64 E) appears to be the most cost-effective option, with an estimated cost of $193.74. While it is not the shortest route, the slightly higher distance is more than compensated by the lower gas prices in Virginia, resulting in a reduced overall cost.

Furthermore, Route 2 offers scenic beauty and is a popular choice among road trip enthusiasts, as it allows you to experience diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a road trip between Aurora, Illinois, and Portsmouth, Virginia, heavily depends on the chosen route and the current gas prices. Based on our analysis, Route 2 (I-55 S and I-64 E) offers a balance of cost-effectiveness and scenic beauty, with an estimated cost of $193.74. However, it's important to note that gas prices fluctuate often, so it's advisable to check for any changes before embarking on your journey.

With an average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon, it will take approximately [Time estimate] to complete the trip, considering driving hours, stops, and other aspects that may affect travel time.

So, plan your road trip wisely, enjoy the journey, and make unforgettable memories as you explore the states between Aurora, Illinois, and Portsmouth, Virginia!