The Cost of Driving From Brainerd to Virginia: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

As the summer approaches, many people are starting to plan their road trips. If you're planning to drive from Brainerd, Minnesota to Virginia, Minnesota, you might be wondering how much it's going to cost you in gas and tolls. In this guide, we'll break down the cost of different routes based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Taking the Fastest Route

The fastest way to get to Virginia from Brainerd is to take the US-2 E and MN-33 E. According to Google Maps, this route is 164 miles long and takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to drive one way. At the current gas prices of $2.75 per gallon in Brainerd and $2.72 per gallon in Virginia, you should expect to pay around $30.68 on gas for a round trip. There are no tolls on this route.

Route 2: Taking the Scenic Route

If you want to enjoy the beauty of northern Minnesota on your way to Virginia, you can take the I-35 N and the MN-33 E. According to Google Maps, this route is 188 miles long and takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to drive one way. At the current gas prices of $2.75 per gallon in Brainerd and $2.72 per gallon in Virginia, you should expect to pay around $35.08 on gas for a round trip. There are no tolls on this route.

Route 3: Taking the Fastest Route with Toll Roads

If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Virginia and don't mind paying some tolls, you can take the I-94 E and the I-35 N. According to Google Maps, this route is 213 miles long and takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to drive one way. At the current gas prices of $2.75 per gallon in Brainerd and $2.72 per gallon in Virginia, you should expect to pay around $41.77 on gas for a round trip. There is one toll on this route - the Clearwater Travel Plaza toll plaza on the I-94 E - which costs $1.50 one way.

Route 4: Taking a Combination Route

If you're looking for a combination of a scenic and fast route, you can take the MN-371 N and the I-35 N. According to Google Maps, this route is 200 miles long and takes around 4 hours to drive one way. At the current gas prices of $2.75 per gallon in Brainerd and $2.72 per gallon in Virginia, you should expect to pay around $37.65 on gas for a round trip. There are no tolls on this route.

In conclusion, taking the fastest route without tolls is the cheapest way to get to Virginia, costing around $30.68 on gas for a round trip. However, if you're looking for a more scenic drive or want to get there faster with tolls, other routes can be a good option too. No matter which route you take, make sure to budget for gas and other expenses, and drive safely. Happy travels!