The Cost of Driving from Brainerd, Minnesota to Charlotte, North Carolina

Are you planning a road trip from Brainerd, Minnesota to Charlotte, North Carolina? If so, you might be wondering how much it will cost you. Gas prices and tolls can add up quickly when you're driving long distances, so it's important to plan out your route and budget accordingly. In this blog post, we'll show you the cost of driving from Brainerd to Charlotte based on current gas prices, and highlight a few different routes you can take.

Route 1: The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Brainerd to Charlotte is via I-94 E and I-75 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,130 miles and takes around 17 hours to drive without stops. Gas prices are currently around $2.40 per gallon, so you can expect to spend around $170 on gas for the entire trip.

There are also tolls to consider on this route. The Indiana Toll Road will cost you $37.40 for passenger cars, and the Ohio Turnpike will cost you $19.45. These prices are subject to change, so be sure to check the toll prices before you depart.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're looking for a more scenic drive, you might want to consider taking a detour through the Great Smoky Mountains. This route adds about 100 miles to your trip, but the views are worth it. You'll take I-35 S to I-40 E, and then catch US-74 E to Charlotte. The total distance is approximately 1,240 miles, and the drive takes about 19 hours without stops.

On this route, you'll encounter tolls on the West Virginia Turnpike, which costs $5.45, and on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which varies depending on your entry and exit points. Gas prices will cost you around $190 for the trip.

Route 3: The Budget Route

If you're trying to save money on gas and tolls, you might want to consider taking a more budget-friendly route. From Brainerd, take US-10 E to I-94 E, and then get on I-69 S in Michigan. From there, take I-75 S to Cincinnati, and then drive through the Appalachian Mountains to Charlotte. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,250 miles and takes around 20 hours to drive without stops.

Gas prices on this route will cost you around $165 for the trip. There are no tolls on this route, making it the most budget-friendly option.

Conclusion

Driving from Brainerd, Minnesota to Charlotte, North Carolina can be a long journey, but with proper planning, it doesn't have to break the bank. The fastest route will cost you around $207, while the scenic route will cost you around $230. If you're trying to save money, consider taking the budget route, which will only cost you around $165. Regardless of the route you choose, be sure to budget for gas and tolls so you don't run out of funds on your trip. Safe travels!