The Cost of a Road Trip from Bristol, IN to Merrillville, IN

Hitting the road can be a great way to explore new places and create wonderful memories. However, before embarking on a road trip, it's important to plan and budget for the trip, including the cost of gas, food, and lodging. If you're planning a trip from Bristol, IN to Merrillville, IN, we've got you covered with information about the cost and distance of each possible route.

Bristol to Merrillville: Possible Routes and Distances

Route 1: US-20 and I-80

The first possible route is via US-20 and I-80. This involves driving south on IN-15 S, then taking US-20 W to I-80 W. From I-80 W, take the exit to IN-53 S to Merrillville. This route covers a distance of approximately 95 miles and takes about 1 hour and 41 minutes.

Route 2: US-20 and I-90

The second possible route is also via US-20 but goes through I-90. This involves driving south on IN-15 S, then taking US-20 W to I-90 W. From I-90 W, take exit 7A to I-65 S, then take the exit for US-30 W. Continue driving on US-30 W until you reach Merrillville. This route covers a distance of approximately 118 miles and takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes.

Route 3: IN-19 and I-65

The third possible route is via IN-19 and I-65. This involves driving north on IN-19 N and taking the ramp to I-80 W. From there, take the exit to I-65 S and continue on I-65 S until you reach the exit for US-30 W in Merrillville. This route covers a distance of approximately 118 miles and takes about 2 hours and 21 minutes.

Gas Prices and Cost of Each Route

Gas prices can fluctuate, and it's important to factor in the cost of fuel when planning a road trip. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Indiana is $2.92 per gallon.

To calculate the cost of each route, we assumed a car with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon. Based on this, here's an estimated breakdown of the cost of each route:

Route 1: US-20 and I-80

Driving from Bristol to Merrillville via US-20 and I-80 would cover a distance of approximately 95 miles. Assuming a gas price of $2.92 per gallon, you would need about 3.8 gallons of gas for the trip. This would cost approximately $11.10.

Route 2: US-20 and I-90

Driving from Bristol to Merrillville via US-20 and I-90 would cover a distance of approximately 118 miles. Assuming a gas price of $2.92 per gallon, you would need about 4.7 gallons of gas for the trip. This would cost approximately $13.71.

Route 3: IN-19 and I-65

Driving from Bristol to Merrillville via IN-19 and I-65 would cover a distance of approximately 118 miles. Assuming a gas price of $2.92 per gallon, you would need about 4.7 gallons of gas for the trip. This would cost approximately $13.71.

The Best Route

While all three routes offer different scenery and attractions along the way, the most cost-effective and efficient route would be Route 1 via US-20 and I-80. This route covers the shortest distance and requires the least amount of gas, making it the more affordable option.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Bristol, IN, to Merrillville, IN, can be a fun and exciting experience. When planning for this trip, it's important to factor in the cost of gas and choose a route that best suits your budget and time constraints. Overall, Route 1 via US-20 and I-80 is the most cost-effective and efficient route, and would take approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete. Safe travels!