Road Trip Budget: Cost of Driving from Bloomington, Illinois to Orange Beach, Alabama

Are you planning a road trip to Orange Beach, Alabama, and wondering how much it will cost you? Well, you're in luck because we've broken down multiple routes with varying distances, times, and costs to help you plan your trip!

Route 1: The Quickest Route

This route is the most straightforward, taking you down I-55 and I-65 South through Tennessee. The total distance is approximately 695 miles and will take around 10 hours and 30 minutes to complete. If you're driving a car that gets around 25 miles per gallon and gas prices average at $2.50 per gallon, the estimated cost of gas would be around $100. Additionally, you'll spend around $15 on tolls.

Distance: 695 miles

Time: 10 hours and 30 minutes

Cost: $115

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're all about the journey and not just the destination, consider taking Route 2, which takes you down I-55 and then cuts across Mississippi, passing through Jackson and Hattiesburg before reaching your destination. The total distance is approximately 790 miles and will take around 12 hours to complete. But, it will give you a more scenic view of the countryside landscape. If you follow this route, the estimated cost of gas would be around $112, and you'll spend around $20 on tolls.

Distance: 790 miles

Time: 12 hours

Cost: $132

Route 3: The Middle Road

This route splits the difference between Route 1 and Route 2, using a combination of roads to take you from Illinois to Alabama. You'll start out on I-55 and merge onto I-24 before hopping on I-65 South. This route is approximately 751 miles long and will take around 11 hours and 15 minutes to complete. You'll spend around $106 on gas if you're driving a car that gets around 25 miles per gallon and gas prices average at $2.50 per gallon. Additionally, you'll spend around $15 on tolls.

Distance: 751 miles

Time: 11 hours and 15 minutes

Cost: $121

Conclusion

Before hitting the road, consider planning out your route to ensure you have the most cost-effective and time-efficient option for you. Each route has its advantages, so it's ultimately up to you to decide which one is best. Don't forget to factor in gas prices and tolls to stay on budget, and most importantly, have a fun and safe trip!