The Cost of a Road Trip Between Brookport, Illinois and Beaufort, South Carolina: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices
Are you planning a road trip from Brookport, Illinois to Beaufort, South Carolina? With the summer season approaching, it may be time to plan your adventure on the open road. However, it is important to consider the cost of the trip. Gas prices fluctuate constantly, and the cost of fuel could have a significant impact on your budget. To help you plan your trip, we have put together a guide to help you calculate the cost of your trip based on current gas prices.
The Different Possible Routes
Before we dive into the costs associated with the trip, let's consider the different possible routes you could take. Depending on your starting location, there may be a few routes to choose from. Here are three of the most commonly taken routes:
Route 1: Interstate 24 East and Interstate 75 South
This is the shortest route, but you will encounter tolls along the way. The distance is approximately 630 miles, and it takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes to complete the trip.
Route 2: Interstate 57 South and Interstate 55 South
This route is slightly longer than Route 1 at approximately 675 miles, but there are no tolls on this route. The estimated time of arrival is around 10 hours and 30 minutes.
Route 3: U.S. 41 South and U.S. 78 East
This scenic route is the longest at 860 miles. However, it is a more relaxed route that takes you through rural America, historic sites, and unique landscapes. The travel time is roughly around 13 hours, but the trip can take longer if you stop frequently.
What Are the Costs Involved?
Fuel costs are one of the most significant expenses associated with any road trip. The longer the trip, the higher the gas expenses. A car that gets a modest 30 miles per gallon and has an average tank size of 14 gallons will have to refill almost five times just to complete the shortest route.
The distance and fuel economy information provided by Google Maps lets you estimate the total fuel cost for your trip. For prices, we used the national gas prices average estimate based on GasBuddy.com, which is $3.15 per gallon as of May 25 2021.
- Route 1: Interstate 24 East and Interstate 75 South
To travel the 630 miles of this route, you will use approximately 21 gallons of gas. At a fuel price of $3.15 per gallon, the cost of the trip comes out to $66.15.
- Route 2: Interstate 57 South and Interstate 55 South
Traveling the 675 miles of this route will require approximately 23 gallons of gas. With a fuel price of $3.15 per gallon, the total fuel cost would come out to $72.45.
- Route 3: U.S. 41 South and U.S. 78 East
The longest route at 860 miles requires approximately 29 gallons of gas. Based on fuel prices, the total fuel cost comes to around $91.35.
As you can see, the cost of gas adds up quickly, especially with longer routes. However, there are ways to save costs along the way. Packing your own snacks, bringing a cooler with refreshments, and reducing your speed are good cost-saving tips for any road trip.
What Is the Best Route?
Ultimately, the route you take will depend on personal preference, time, and budget. The shortest route may not be the most cost-effective route if there are tolls or heavy traffic slowing you down. Route 2 may be better for those wanting to avoid tolls, but it is slightly longer. The scenic Route 3 may be the best option for those who want to take their time and enjoy the journey.
Conclusion
Planning a road trip can be a fun and exciting experience. However, it is important to consider the cost of fuel when mapping out your journey. Calculating the total fuel cost can help you budget appropriately and avoid overspending. Our guide has provided you with a brief overview of the cost of the most commonly taken routes from Brookport, Illinois to Beaufort, South Carolina. We hope this information helps you plan your next road trip with confidence. Safe travels!