The Cost of a Trip between Bentonville, Arkansas and Aurora, Colorado
Introduction
Traveling between Bentonville, Arkansas and Aurora, Colorado can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to plan ahead and consider the cost of the trip. One of the major expenses to consider is the cost of fuel, as it plays a significant role in determining the overall budget for your journey. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes for this trip, highlighting the cost and distance of each one. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of the best route to take, in terms of cost, and some key insights to help you plan your journey effectively.
Possible Routes and Cost Analysis
Route 1: The Direct Route
The most direct route between Bentonville, Arkansas and Aurora, Colorado is via I-49 and I-70 West. This route spans approximately 755 miles and takes around 11 hours to complete, without accounting for stops or traffic delays. The cost of fuel will primarily depend on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices.
Taking the average fuel efficiency for a passenger vehicle, which is around 25 miles per gallon (mpg), and assuming the current gas price is $3 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for this route can be calculated as follows:
Total Cost = (Total Distance / Vehicle Efficiency) * Current Gas Price
Total Cost = (755 miles / 25 mpg) * $3 = $90.60
Route 2: The Scenic Route
For those looking to add some visual delight to their journey, a more scenic option is available. By taking US-412 West and US-64 West, you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes that Oklahoma and New Mexico have to offer. The total distance for this route is approximately 780 miles, and it would take you around 12 hours to complete, without including any stops or traffic delays.
Using the same average fuel efficiency and gas price assumptions, the estimated fuel cost for this scenic route is:
Total Cost = (780 miles / 25 mpg) * $3 = $93.60
Route 3: The Economic Route
If you're on a tight budget, you might consider an alternative route that can help save some money on fuel costs. This option involves taking US-412 West and I-40 West through Oklahoma, then joining I-25 North in New Mexico until you reach Colorado. This route covers approximately 840 miles and takes around 13 hours to complete.
Applying the same calculations as before, the estimated fuel cost for this economic route would be:
Total Cost = (840 miles / 25 mpg) * $3 = $100.80
Route 4: The Efficiency Route
For those looking to optimize fuel efficiency and minimize costs, an efficient route can be taken. This involves taking US-412 West and US-64 West, but instead of taking I-25 North, you can continue on US-550 North, which will take you directly to Aurora, Colorado. This extended route comprises approximately 880 miles and takes around 14 hours to complete.
Calculating the estimated fuel cost for this efficient route would yield:
Total Cost = (880 miles / 25 mpg) * $3 = $105.60
Recommendation
After considering the different routes and their associated fuel costs, taking into account both efficiency and overall distance, the best route recommendation is Route 1: The Direct Route. This option offers the shortest distance and time duration, costing approximately $90.60 in fuel expenses. While the scenic route may be tempting, the direct route provides a better balance between cost and convenience.
Conclusion
When planning a trip between Bentonville, Arkansas and Aurora, Colorado, it's important to consider the cost of fuel, as it significantly impacts your overall budget. After analyzing various routes, we determined that Route 1: The Direct Route is the most cost-effective option, with an estimated fuel cost of around $90.60. However, it's worth noting that these costs may vary depending on fluctuating gas prices and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. By carefully evaluating the routes and their associated costs, you can plan your journey effectively, ensuring a smooth and budget-friendly travel experience.
Disclaimer: The estimated fuel costs mentioned in this article are based on average fuel efficiency and assumed gas prices, which are subject to change. Please consult up-to-date gas prices and consider your vehicle's fuel efficiency before undertaking your trip.