Traveling from Brenham to Baytown: How Much Will it Cost with Current Gas Prices?

Traveling between two cities can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether for work, leisure, or an emergency, it’s important to know how much it will cost you to make the trip. Fuel represents a significant expense in any road trip, so getting an estimate of the cost based on current gas prices can help you budget accordingly. In this article, we will explore all the routes between Brenham, Texas, and Baytown, Texas, including their distance and cost, and recommend the best option.

Possible Routes

Route 1: TX-290 E and I-10 E

This route takes you along the TX-290 E highway, then merges onto the I-10 E highway just before Houston. According to Google Maps, the distance between Brenham and Baytown using this route is 80 miles, and driving time is around 1 hour 20 minutes without traffic.

Assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and the current average gas price in Texas of $2.75 per gallon, it would cost you roughly $22 for a one-way trip on this route. Round trip would cost you $44, excluding any tolls, parking, or other expenses you might incur during your trip.

Route 2: US-290 E and TX-146 S

This route also involves taking the US-290 E highway, but once you get to Houston, you will switch to the TX-146 S highway, which leads you directly into Baytown. The total distance between Brenham and Baytown using this route is 88 miles, and driving time is around 1 hour 30 minutes without traffic.

Using the same fuel economy and gas prices as in Route 1, this route would cost you roughly $26 for one-way travel and $52 for round trip travel, excluding any additional costs.

Route 3: TX-36 S and I-45 S

This route takes you on the TX-36 S highway, which you will follow until it merges with the I-45 S highway toward Houston. Once you get on the I-45 S, you will continue until you reach the Baytown exit. The total distance between Brenham and Baytown using this route is 102 miles, and driving time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes without traffic.

Based on the same fuel economy and gas prices as in the previous two routes, Route 3 would cost you roughly $30 for one-way travel and $60 for round trip travel, excluding additional expenses.

Which Route is the Best?

When deciding which route to take, factors besides cost and distance include traffic conditions, road quality, scenic views, and accessibility to landmarks or amenities. Route 1, TX-290 E and I-10 E, offers the shortest distance and driving time, which might be appealing if you’re in a hurry or prefer long straight highways.

Route 2, US-290 E and TX-146 S, is slightly longer but might be a better option if you want to avoid the congestion of the I-10 E highway, which can be busy during peak hours. This route also passes through some residential areas and local businesses, giving you a glimpse of life in Houston.

Route 3, TX-36 S and I-45 S, is the longest and slowest option, but it’s also the most scenic, passing through some rural countryside and small towns. This route might be preferable if you enjoy a more relaxed pace and want to explore some notable landmarks along the way, such as the Lake Conroe Dam or the Moody Gardens.

Considering all these factors, Route 1, TX-290 E and I-10 E, seems to be the best option for most travelers. It’s the shortest and cheapest route, and although it can be busy at times, it’s generally safe and easy to navigate. However, if you’re not in a hurry, and want to enjoy a more laid-back trip, or if you’re traveling during off-peak hours and want to avoid traffic, Route 2 or Route 3 might be worth considering.

Conclusion

Traveling between Brenham, Texas, and Baytown, Texas, can be a memorable experience, regardless of the route you take. All three available routes offer unique advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences and needs. However, with current gas prices factored in, Route 1, TX-290 E and I-10 E, appears to be the most cost-effective and efficient option. By planning ahead and budgeting accordingly, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises and focus on enjoying your trip. Safe travels!