The Cost of a Trip Between Bismarck and Minot: The Cheapest Route
If you're planning a trip between Bismarck and Minot, North Dakota, there are many factors to consider. Among the most important decisions you'll make is how you'll get there and how much you'll spend on transportation. Fortunately, we've done the research for you!
Choosing Your Route
Depending on your preferences and schedule, there are several routes you can take. Here are the most common options:
1. Taking US-83 North
Your first option is to take US-83 North. This route will cover approximately 112 miles and take around 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete. If you're looking for the quickest route to take, this one is the way to go.
2. Taking ND-41 and US-83 North
This route is longer than the first, at a total distance of 133 miles and taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes. However, if you're looking for a more scenic option, with fewer highways and more farmland to take in, this route may be ideal.
3. Taking I-94 West and US-83 North
This route is the longest of the three, at approximately 151 miles, and will take about 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. However, if you're coming from an area closer to I-94, it may be more convenient to take this route.
The Cost of Driving
Once you've chosen your route, the next step is to determine the cost of driving. This will depend on several factors, including the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, the current price of gasoline, and the total distance you plan to travel. For the sake of simplicity, we've made the following assumptions:
- Your vehicle gets an average of 25 miles per gallon.
- The current price of gasoline in North Dakota is $2.79 per gallon.
- Your trip will be approximately 112 miles each way.
Given these assumptions, here's how much a roundtrip drive would cost you, depending on your chosen route:
- US-83 North: $22.38
- ND-41 and US-83 North: $26.67
- I-94 West and US-83 North: $30.34
These estimates only account for gasoline expenses. Keep in mind that you may also need to factor in additional costs like tolls, parking fees, and vehicle maintenance.
Recommendations
So, which route is the best to take, considering both time and cost? In this case, our recommendation is to take US-83 North. It's the shortest, quickest route, and the cheapest based on our calculations. With gas prices being high, saving $7.96 on a round trip by taking the shorter route may make a big difference to many.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of a trip between Bismarck and Minot depends on a variety of factors, including your chosen route, the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, and the current price of gasoline. Regardless of which route you take, it's important to budget accordingly and be prepared for any unexpected expenses that may arise. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, taking the time to plan your trip out in advance can help you save money and stress in the long run.