Driving Cost from Bismarck, Illinois to Billings, Montana

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The Cost of a Trip Between Bismarck, Illinois and Billings, Montana Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Bismarck, Illinois to Billings, Montana and wondering how much it will cost you? When it comes to travel expenses, gas prices are usually the highest contributor, so it's worth taking the time to plan your route and calculate the cost of gas along the way. In this article, we will explore different possible routes, highlight their distance and cost, and recommend the best route for your trip.

Possible Routes

When it comes to planning a road trip, the route you take can significantly impact your travel expenses. There are a few possible routes you can take from Bismarck, Illinois to Billings, Montana up to your preference:

Route 1: I-94 W

The first route you can take is via I-94 W, a direct route that takes you through North Dakota and Montana. This route has a distance of approximately 824 miles and takes around 13 hours and 4 minutes without stops.

Route 2: I-94 W and MT-12 W

Another possible option is to combine I-94 W with MT-12 W, a slightly longer but more scenic route that takes you through some of Montana's beautiful landscapes. This route has a distance of approximately 832 miles and takes around 13 hours and 18 minutes without stops.

Route 3: I-90 W and US-212 W

If you prefer to avoid North Dakota, another route you can take is via I-90 W and US-212 W, a more southern route that takes you through South Dakota and Wyoming before reaching Montana. This route has a distance of approximately 969 miles and takes around 15 hours and 27 minutes without stops.

Cost of Gas

Gas prices are subject to change over time and can vary depending on your current location, route, and type of vehicle. However, by using current gas prices and assuming a vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 MPG, we can estimate the cost of gas for each route.

According to GasBuddy as of August 2021, the average gas price in Illinois is $3.28 per gallon, while in Montana, it is $3.39 per gallon. Here is the estimated cost of gas for each route:

Route 1: I-94 W

  • Illinois: 205 miles, or 8.2 gallons, estimated cost: $26.94
  • North Dakota: 610 miles, or 24.4 gallons, estimated cost: $80.01
  • Montana: 9 miles, or 0.4 gallons, estimated cost: $1.36
  • Total estimated cost of gas: $108.30

Route 2: I-94 W and MT-12 W

  • Illinois: 205 miles, or 8.2 gallons, estimated cost: $26.94
  • North Dakota: 570 miles, or 22.8 gallons, estimated cost: $74.86
  • Montana: 57 miles, or 2.3 gallons, estimated cost: $7.79
  • Total estimated cost of gas: $109.59

Route 3: I-90 W and US-212 W

  • Illinois: 205 miles, or 8.2 gallons, estimated cost: $26.94
  • Indiana: 101 miles, or 4 gallons, estimated cost: $13.12
  • Illinois: 51 miles, or 2 gallons, estimated cost: $6.56
  • Wisconsin: 283 miles, or 11.3 gallons, estimated cost: $37.06
  • Minnesota: 146 miles, or 5.8 gallons, estimated cost: $19.02
  • South Dakota: 275 miles, or 11 gallons, estimated cost: $36.08
  • Wyoming: 202 miles, or 8.1 gallons, estimated cost: $26.57
  • Montana: 106 miles, or 4.2 gallons, estimated cost: $14.25
  • Total estimated cost of gas: $179.60

Based on our calculations, the first route, I-94 W, is the most cost-effective option, with an estimated cost of gas at $108.30. However, it may not be the most scenic route, and some travelers may prefer the more scenic Route 2, which only costs slightly more at $109.59. However, Route 3, while the most scenic route, is much longer and will cost a lot more at $179.60.

Ultimately, the choice of route will depend on your preferences, budget, and travel time. It's worth noting that these estimated costs of gas do not factor in other travel expenses such as food, lodging, tolls, and attractions, so it's a good idea to budget accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you're planning a road trip from Bismarck, Illinois, to Billings, Montana, gas prices will likely be your highest travel expense. By taking the time to plan your route and estimate the cost of gas, you can save money and make the most of your trip. Between the three possible routes, Route 1, I-94 W, is the most cost-effective option, but Route 2, I-94 W and MT-12 W, may be a better option for those who want to see more scenery. Whatever route you choose, we wish you a safe and enjoyable trip!