The Cost of Driving From Brewster, Nebraska to Laramie, Wyoming
Planning a road trip can be exciting, but a lot of factors go into the cost of a trip beyond just gas. Here's a breakdown of the various routes from Brewster, Nebraska to Laramie, Wyoming, factoring in distance, time, gas prices, and toll fees.
Route 1: Via US-26 W and US-385 S
- Distance: 307 miles
- Time: 5 hours and 32 minutes
- Gas Prices: Based on current gas prices in Nebraska, estimating around $2.59 per gallon, and in Wyoming, estimating around $2.58 per gallon, a round trip would cost approximately $85.43
- Toll Prices: Free
This route is the most direct and straightforward option, taking you down US-26 W and then onto US-385 S. While it's a long drive, you won't have to worry about any tolls along the way.
Route 2: Via I-80 W and US-287 N
- Distance: 418 miles
- Time: 7 hours and 16 minutes
- Gas Prices: Based on current gas prices in Nebraska, estimating around $2.59 per gallon, and in Wyoming, estimating around $2.58 per gallon, a round trip would cost approximately $115.33
- Toll Prices: Based on current toll rates, the estimated cost would be around $14.80 for a round trip
This route takes you on the interstate, which can be faster but also potentially busier. If you're looking to go off the beaten path, this might not be the best option.
Route 3: Via I-80 W with stops in Sidney and Cheyenne
- Distance: 436 miles
- Time: 8 hours and 2 minutes
- Gas Prices: Based on current gas prices in Nebraska, estimating around $2.59 per gallon, and in Wyoming, estimating around $2.58 per gallon, a round trip would cost approximately $118.39
- Toll Prices: Based on current toll rates, the estimated cost would be around $14.80 for a round trip
This route takes you on the interstate as well, but with a few more breaks. While you'll still have to pay tolls, you'll have a chance to stop and explore two different towns along the way.
Route 4: Via US-183 N and US-287 N
- Distance: 390 miles
- Time: 7 hours and 11 minutes
- Gas Prices: Based on current gas prices in Nebraska, estimating around $2.59 per gallon, and in Wyoming, estimating around $2.58 per gallon, a round trip would cost approximately $106.03
- Toll Prices: Free
This route takes you through the least-visited area, following US-183 N before catching US-287 N. While it's out of the way, you won't have to worry about tolls along the trip.
Conclusion
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to finding the most cost-effective route, as each option has its own cost and benefits. If you're looking for a straight shot with no tolls, stick with Route 1; if you want to break up the drive and see some new places, Route 3 might be better. Ultimately, it comes down to what you're looking to experience on your road trip.