The Cost of a Trip between Big Pines, California and Mexia, Texas

Are you planning a road trip from Big Pines, California to Mexia, Texas? Before you hit the road, it's essential to consider the cost of the trip. With gas prices continuously fluctuating, it can be challenging to budget for a long distance drive. In this article, we'll break down the various routes you can take and highlight the cost and distance of each one. We'll also recommend the most cost-effective route, so you can plan your trip without breaking the bank.

Possible Routes

Before we get started, it's essential to note that there are several routes you can take from Big Pines, California to Mexia, Texas. Depending on your preferences and convenience, you can choose one of the following:

Route 1: I-10 E and I-35 N

This route takes you through Phoenix, Tucson, El Paso, and Dallas. The total distance is approximately 1,679 miles, and the estimated driving time is 24 hours and 18 minutes without factoring in stops.

Route 2: AZ-77 S and I-10 E

This route takes you through Tucson, Las Cruces, and San Antonio. The total distance is approximately 1,488 miles, and the estimated driving time is 22 hours and 52 minutes without factoring in stops.

Route 3: US-54 E, I-35 S, and TX-14 S

This route takes you through El Paso, San Antonio, and Waco. The total distance is approximately 1,463 miles, and the estimated driving time is 22 hours and 27 minutes without factoring in stops.

Cost and Distance Comparison

To determine the most cost-effective route, we need to compare the cost and distance of each one. For this analysis, we assume that your car has an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon. We also assume that the average gas price in the United States is $2.97 per gallon, as reported by AAA.

Route 1: I-10 E and I-35 N

Assuming an average of 25 miles per gallon, this route will require approximately 67 gallons of gasoline, with a total cost of $198.99. The total distance is 1,679 miles.

Route 2: AZ-77 S and I-10 E

Assuming an average of 25 miles per gallon, this route will require approximately 60 gallons of gasoline, with a total cost of $178.20. The total distance is 1,488 miles.

Route 3: US-54 E, I-35 S, and TX-14 S

Assuming an average of 25 miles per gallon, this route will require approximately 59 gallons of gasoline, with a total cost of $175.23. The total distance is 1,463 miles.

Recommendations

Based on our analysis, the most cost-effective route is Route 3. It has the shortest distance and fuel consumption, resulting in a lower cost. However, it's essential to note that Route 2 is not far behind in terms of cost, and it may provide a more scenic route depending on your preferences. Route 1 is the most extended of the three, and it also has the highest gas consumption, making it the most expensive option.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of a road trip from Big Pines, California, to Mexia, Texas, may vary based on the route you choose. As highlighted in this article, Route 3 is the most cost-effective route, considering the distance and gas consumption. At an average of 25 miles per gallon and $2.97 per gallon, the total estimated cost of the trip would be $175.23. However, it's essential to factor in other costs such as food, accommodation, and potential car maintenance expenses. It's also crucial to plan the trip ahead, including determining where you can stop for gas and rest. With proper planning, you can save money on gas and enjoy a safe and comfortable road trip.