Driving Cost from Carlsbad, California to Fullerton, California

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Carlsbad to Fullerton: Gas Prices and Routes

If you're planning a trip from Carlsbad, California to Fullerton, California, one of the first things you'll want to consider is the cost. With gas prices changing regularly, it can be tough to know exactly how much you'll need to budget for your journey. Add to that the different possible routes, and it can quickly become overwhelming. In this article, we'll break down the cost of a trip between Carlsbad and Fullerton, including a few different route options to help you make the most of your time and money.

Route Options

There are a few different route options you can take when traveling from Carlsbad to Fullerton. Some of the more common routes include:

  • I-5 S to CA-91 E
  • CA-78 E to I-15 S to CA-91 W
  • The Pacific Coast Highway to CA-22 E

To determine which route will be most cost-effective, it's important to consider a few different factors, including the distance, gas prices, and any tolls that may apply.

I-5 S to CA-91 E

One of the most straightforward routes from Carlsbad to Fullerton is to take I-5 S to CA-91 E. This route spans roughly 73 miles and takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to complete.

Based on current gas prices and assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, it would cost around $13.50 in gas for this route. Additionally, there are no tolls associated with this route.

CA-78 E to I-15 S to CA-91 W

Another route option is to take CA-78 E to I-15 S to CA-91 W. This route is slightly longer, spanning approximately 89 miles, and takes about an hour and forty minutes to complete.

In terms of gas cost, this route would require roughly $16.27 in gas based on current prices and an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon. It's also worth noting that there are no tolls associated with this route.

The Pacific Coast Highway to CA-22 E

A more scenic route from Carlsbad to Fullerton is to take the Pacific Coast Highway to CA-22 E. This is the longest route, spanning nearly 100 miles and taking about two hours to complete.

Because this route follows the coastline, it can be a bit more expensive in terms of gas. Assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, it would cost around $18.50 in gas to complete this journey. Additionally, there are no tolls associated with this route.

Overall, the most cost-effective route from Carlsbad to Fullerton is likely I-5 S to CA-91 E. While it may not be the most scenic option, it's the shortest and least expensive in terms of gas. That being said, if you have some extra time and want to take the scenic route, the Pacific Coast Highway to CA-22 E can be a great option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Carlsbad to Fullerton can vary depending on the route you choose and current gas prices. For the most cost-effective option, consider taking I-5 S to CA-91 E, which spans roughly 73 miles and costs around $13.50 in gas. However, if you have some extra time and want to take a scenic route, the Pacific Coast Highway to CA-22 E can be a great adventure. Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to check gas prices and factor in any tolls to accurately budget for your trip. Happy travels!