The Cost of a Trip between Bowling Green, Kentucky and Longview, Texas

Traveling between Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Longview, Texas, requires some preparation if you want a cost-efficient journey. You can choose various routes to arrive at your destination, and factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and distance should be taken into account. This article will detail the different routes, their cost, and the best options for budget-minded travelers.

Different Route Options

When it comes to traveling from Bowling Green, KY to Longview, TX, you have several options. The distance between the two cities is approximately 870 miles, which means you'll be spending some time on the road.

Route 1: I-40 W and I-30 W

One possible route is to take I-65 S from Bowling Green, KY, to Nashville, TN, then take I-40 W and I-30 W to Longview, TX. This route covers a distance of approximately 850 miles.

Route 2: I-24 W, I-55 S, and I-20 W

Another option is to take I-65 S to Nashville, TN, then take I-24 W to Memphis, TN. From Memphis, TN, you can follow I-55 S until you reach Jackson, MS. Finally, take I-20 W to Longview, TX. This route covers around 905 miles.

Route 3: I-65 S, I-55 S, and I-20 W

Alternatively, you can take I-65 S to Birmingham, AL, then take I-20 W to Longview, TX. This route has a distance of approximately 915 miles.

The Cost of the Journey

The cost of a trip from Bowling Green, KY to Longview, TX, can be affected by various factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and food expenses.

Fuel Prices

According to GasBuddy, the average fuel price in Bowling Green, KY, as of August 2021, is $2.97 per gallon for regular gasoline. For Longview, TX, the average price is slightly lower at $2.89 per gallon.

Based on the average fuel price, you can estimate the total fuel cost of the trip. For instance, if your vehicle can travel 25 miles per gallon (MPG), you will need 34.8 gallons of gasoline for the trip. Therefore, the estimated fuel cost for the entire journey will be approximately $103.26. This calculation does not take into account factors such as traffic, detours, or fuel efficiency in your vehicle.

Tolls

Toll fees can add up, and they should be considered when you plan your journey. Route 1, I-40 W, and I-30 W do not have any tolls. However, Route 2 and Route 3 have tolls you need to account for.

If you take Route 2, you will go through the Illinois Tollway, based on the number of axles in your vehicle, the fee will vary, but it averages $7.50. Route 3 has no tolls until you reach Texas, where you will have to pay $2.50 for the Lewis and Clark Bridge.

Food and Accommodation

A road trip doesn't just cost gas and tolls; you also have to consider food and accommodation expenses. The costs will depend on whether you prefer to cook your meals or eat at restaurants and the type of accommodation you choose.

However, if you plan on cooking your meals and staying in a budget hotel or AirBnB, you can expect to spend at least $75 per day on food and accommodation. This estimate is based on the cost of groceries and low-cost lodging options in the cities you pass on your journey.

Best Option for Cost-Conscious Travelers

Based on the distance, fuel, and toll costs, Route 1 seems to be the best option for cost-conscious travelers. Route 1 doesn't have any tolls. Additionally, Nashville, TN, and Memphis, TN, have plenty of affordable food and accommodation options.

Moreover, if you plan to stop at Little Rock, AR, you can visit many free attractions such as the Big Dam Bridge or the Clinton Presidential Library. These free attractions can be an excellent opportunity to take a break from driving and enjoy the surroundings.

Conclusion

In summary, traveling from Bowling Green, KY, to Longview, TX, requires some strategic planning to keep costs down. You can choose between several routes, and fuel prices, tolls, and food expenses should be taken into account. Route 1, I-40 W, and I-30 W, are the cheapest in terms of tolls. The cost of fuel for the whole journey is approximately $103.26, based on current fuel prices. Route 1 is the best option for budget-minded travelers, with Nashville, TN, and Memphis, TN, offering plenty of affordable options for food and accommodation. Ultimately, the cost of a trip can vary based on individual spending habits and vehicle efficiency, but with proper planning, you can enjoy an affordable and enjoyable journey.