Cruising from Beaumont to Columbus: The Cost of a Road Trip

Are you looking for an adventure that won't break the bank? Have you ever thought about taking a road trip from Beaumont, Texas to Columbus, Ohio? With an estimated distance of 1,060 miles, the journey can be long, but can also be a great opportunity to appreciate the vast and diverse landscapes America has to offer. But just how much will this road trip cost? Let's break it down.

Route 1: Taking I-10 and I-75

One potential route is to take I-10 East and then I-75 North in Florida, going through Atlanta until reaching Columbus. The distance for this route is about 1,165 miles, which would take around 17 hours of driving with stops and traffic. However, this route has the advantage of not requiring any tolls. According to current gas prices, for a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, this route would cost around $128 in gas.

Route 2: Taking I-30 and I-40

Another option is to take I-30 East to Little Rock, and then switch to I-40 East until you reach Nashville, then taking I-65 North to Louisville and eventually I-71 North until you make it to Columbus. This route, which is around 1,200 miles, would take roughly 18 hours of driving. While this route covers more ground, it could offer more scenic views along the Appalachian mountains. The downside is that it requires a few tolls, with costs varying between $1 to $10 for each. Factoring in these fees, and with a fuel cost of $140, you are looking at roughly a total of $200 for this route.

Route 3: Taking I-30 and I-35

Finally, one could opt for I-30 East to Arkansas, then merge onto I-35 North in Oklahoma City for the remaining journey to Columbus. This route is around 1,080 miles and takes around 16 hours of driving. This route is also toll-free, but due to Oklahoma having a higher gas tax, the fuel cost ends up around $150.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, Planning a road trip from Beaumont, Texas to Columbus, Ohio is a great opportunity to experience different parts of the country while enjoying the freedom of the road. However, be sure to budget for the cost of gas and tolls depending on the route you take. While Route 1 is the cheapest option, Route 2 will take you through the scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains, and Route 3 offers the quickest path. Regardless of which route you select, plan for stops, food, and lodging for an enjoyable and an affordable road trip. Safe travels!