The True Cost of a Trip between Austin, Texas and Alsip, Illinois

If you're planning a trip from Austin, Texas, to Alsip, Illinois, you might be wondering what exactly it's going to cost you. Between gas prices and potential detours, it's tough to know where to start. In this article, we'll break down your options for getting there and what the estimated cost will be for each one based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-35 N and I-80 E

Distance: 1,084 miles Estimated Travel Time: 16 hours

This first route takes you through Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and finally to Illinois. It's the shortest route in terms of distance, but it does require quite a bit of time on the road.

According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price in Austin is $2.58 per gallon. If you drive a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 43 gallons of gas to complete this trip. That adds up to about $110.94 in gas costs. However, keep in mind that gas prices fluctuate frequently and can change at any moment.

Tolls will also be a factor if you take this route. The Illinois Tollway estimates that a one-way trip on I-80 will cost $21.00 if you're driving a passenger car. You'll also likely encounter tolls in Kansas and Missouri.

Altogether, this route's total cost would be around $131.94 for gas and tolls.

Route 2: I-35 N, I-44 E, and I-55 N

Distance: 1,142 miles Estimated Travel Time: 17 hours and 30 minutes

This route takes you through Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, and then finally to Alsip. While it's longer than Route 1, it actually has less time on the road due to the higher speed limits on some parts of the highways.

Using the same gas calculations as before, the cost for gas on this route would be around $117.24. However, there will also be more tolls to factor in here. The Illinois Tollway estimates that a one-way trip on I-55 will cost $3.60 for a passenger car. Tolls in Missouri and Oklahoma may also be necessary.

The total cost for this route would be roughly $150.84 taking into account gas and tolls.

Route 3: I-35 N, I-44 E, and I-70 E

Distance: 1,170 miles Estimated Travel Time: 18 hours and 30 minutes

This final route takes you through Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana before getting to Alsip. It's the longest route in terms of distance and time spent on the road.

If you use the same gas calculations as before, the cost for gas on this route would be around $120.24. This route also has the potential for tolls in Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana.

The total cost for this route would be approximately $153.44 taking into account gas and tolls.

Conclusion

Based on these factors, Route 1 seems to be the most cost-effective choice for travelers looking to get from Austin, Texas, to Alsip, Illinois. While Route 2 and Route 3 may have less traffic, they're more expensive due to the extra tolls involved. Keep in mind that these calculations are based on current gas prices and toll fees, so actual costs may vary. Additionally, our estimates do not take into account additional expenses such as food and lodging. Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to stay safe on the road and have a great trip!