Driving Cost from Billings, Montana to Marion, Kansas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Billings, Montana to Marion, Kansas

If you're planning a road trip from Billings, Montana to Marion, Kansas, you may be wondering about the cost of gas and other expenses along the way. With gas prices fluctuating constantly, it can be tricky to know exactly how much you'll be spending on fuel. However, by breaking down the different possible routes and calculating the cost and distance of each one, you can get a good idea of what to expect. In this article, we'll explore the cost of a road trip between Billings and Marion and recommend the best route for your trip.

Possible Routes

There are a few different routes you could take to get from Billings to Marion, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Here are a few options to consider:

Route 1: I-90E and I-29S

The first route involves taking I-90E and I-29S through South Dakota and Iowa before reaching Kansas. This route covers a total distance of 1,031 miles and takes roughly 15 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Here's a breakdown of the key costs and distances:

  • Total distance: 1,031 miles
  • Estimated fuel cost (based on an average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg and current gas prices of $3.00 per gallon): $124
  • Estimated toll fees (based on using the I-Pass system in Illinois): $32.05
  • Total estimated cost (not including food, lodging, or other expenses): $156.05

Route 2: I-90E and I-35S

Another option is to take I-90E until you reach I-35S, which will take you through Iowa, Missouri, and Kansas. This route covers a total distance of 1,049 miles and takes roughly 16 hours to drive. Here's a breakdown of the key costs and distances:

  • Total distance: 1,049 miles
  • Estimated fuel cost: $126
  • Estimated toll fees (based on using the I-Pass system in Illinois and Kansas): $50.55
  • Total estimated cost: $176.55

Route 3: I-94E and I-35S

A third option is to take I-94E until you reach I-35S, which will also take you through Iowa, Missouri, and Kansas but will require driving through Minnesota and Wisconsin as well. This route covers a total distance of 1,161 miles and takes roughly 18 hours to drive. Here's a breakdown of the key costs and distances:

  • Total distance: 1,161 miles
  • Estimated fuel cost: $139.32
  • Estimated toll fees (based on using the I-Pass system in Illinois and Kansas): $51.95
  • Total estimated cost: $191.27

Route 4: I-90E and I-35S with a Detour through Wyoming

If you're interested in adding some scenic detours to your trip, you could take Route 2 or 3 but add a detour through Wyoming to see Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park. If you take this route, keep in mind that you'll be driving through some mountainous areas and may encounter winter road closures or other hazards.

Based on the distances and costs outlined above, it seems that Route 1 (I-90E and I-29S) is the most cost-effective option for a trip from Billings to Marion. While the estimated toll fees are somewhat high at $32.05, the lower fuel cost of $124 brings the total estimated cost to just $156.05. This route is also the shortest and will likely be the least stressful to drive. However, if you're interested in seeing some extra sights along the way, Route 2 or 3 with a scenic detour through Wyoming might be worth considering.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of a road trip from Billings, Montana to Marion, Kansas will likely be around $150-$200 depending on the route you choose, the current gas prices, toll fees, and other factors. While driving for 15-18 hours may seem daunting, taking breaks along the way and exploring some of the sights in the Midwest can make the trip much more enjoyable. Safe travels!