The Cost of Driving from Ballina, NSW to Gold Coast City, QLD

Are you planning a road trip from Ballina, New South Wales to Gold Coast City, Queensland? It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of hitting the open road, but it’s important to know how much your trip could cost. Let’s break down the different routes you can take and how much you can expect to spend on gas and tolls.

Route 1: Pacific Motorway

The most direct route from Ballina to Gold Coast City is via the Pacific Motorway. The distance is approximately 115 km and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive. Based on an average fuel consumption of 10 km per litre and a current average gas price of $1.40 per litre, you can expect to spend around $16.10 on gas one way. Additionally, there is a toll of $4.90 to use the motorway, bringing the total cost to $21.00 for one way.

Route 2: Coastal Scenic Route

If you're in the mood for a scenic drive, you may want to opt for the Coastal Scenic Route. This route follows the coast and takes around 2 hours to drive via Lennox Head and Byron Bay. While the distance is slightly longer at approximately 140 km, the views are well worth the extra time spent on the road. Based on an average fuel consumption of 10 km per litre and a current average gas price of $1.40 per litre, you can expect to spend around $20.00 on gas for one way of the trip. There is no toll on this route, making the total cost for one way around $20.00.

Route 3: Inland Scenic Drive

Another great option is to take the inland scenic drive, which takes you through the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of northern New South Wales. While this route is the longest at approximately 160 km, it takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive. Based on an average fuel consumption of 10 km per litre and a current average gas price of $1.40 per litre, you can expect to spend around $22.40 on gas for one way of the trip. There is no toll on this route, making the total cost for one way around $22.40.

In conclusion, the cost of driving from Ballina, New South Wales to Gold Coast City, Queensland varies depending on the route you choose. The direct route via the Pacific Motorway is the quickest but also the most expensive at $21.00. The Coastal Scenic Route is slightly longer but offers beautiful views and no tolls, with a total cost of $20.00. Finally, the inland scenic drive is the longest but still a great option with no tolls, and a total cost of $22.40. Whatever route you choose, be sure to pack a picnic and enjoy all the sights that this beautiful part of Australia has to offer.