The Cost of a Trip between Birmingham, Alabama and Plymouth, Iowa in Today's Gas Prices

Traveling from Birmingham, Alabama to Plymouth, Iowa can be an enjoyable adventure, with plenty of scenic routes and places to stop along the way. However, the cost of the trip can vary depending on several factors, such as the route taken, the vehicle, and gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different route options and their costs, as well as recommend the best route for your budget.

Route Options

Route 1: I-65 N and I-80 W

The first route option is to take I-65 N and I-80 W. This route spans across six states, covering approximately 830 miles and taking around 12 hours of driving (without factoring in rest stops). The route passes through some major cities, including Indianapolis, St. Louis, and Omaha, with plenty of accommodation and food options along the way.

Gas Cost

Assuming an average of 26 miles per gallon (mpg), a gallon of gas costs $2.50, and the distance is 830 miles, the estimated cost of gas for this route is around $100.

Route 2: I-65 N, I-74 W, and I-80 W

The second option is to take I-65 N, I-74 W, and I-80 W. This route is slightly longer at around 890 miles and takes roughly 13 hours of driving. This route passes through Indianapolis, Champaign, and Cedar Rapids, offering plenty of attractions and places to rest along the way.

Gas Cost

Assuming an average of 26 miles per gallon (mpg), a gallon of gas costs $2.50, and the distance is 890 miles, the estimated cost of gas for this route is around $110.

Route 3: I-65 N, I-57 N, and I-80 W

The third route option is to take I-65 N, I-57 N, and I-80 W. This is the longest route at approximately 950 miles, taking about 14.5 hours of driving. This route passes through some major cities, including Chicago and Des Moines, with plenty of food and accommodation options.

Gas Cost

Assuming an average of 26 miles per gallon (mpg), a gallon of gas costs $2.50, and the distance is 950 miles, the estimated cost of gas for this route is around $120.

Recommendation

Considering the distance, time, and cost, the best route for this trip is Route 1: I-65 N and I-80 W. This route offers a good balance of distance, time, and attractions along the way, making it the most efficient option. While the other routes pass through some major cities, the added distance and time may not be worth the extra attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling between Birmingham, Alabama and Plymouth, Iowa can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to factor in the cost of gas when planning your trip. With gas prices averaging at around $2.50 per gallon and an average of 26 mpg, Route 1 (I-65 N and I-80 W) is the most cost-effective option, with an estimated gas cost of around $100 for the approximately 830-mile journey. With plenty of accommodation and food options along the way, this route offers a great balance of time and distance, making it the best choice for your budget.