Driving Cost from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Elk City, Oklahoma

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The Cost of a Road Trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Elk City, Oklahoma

If you are planning a road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Elk City, Oklahoma, there are a few things to consider, including the different routes available, the cost of gas and other expenses, the distance and time required for each route, and the best route to take to get there. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your journey.

Different Possible Routes

There are several different routes you can take when driving from Chapel Hill to Elk City, depending on your preference and the time you have available.

  1. Route 1 via I-40 W: This is the most direct and commonly used route. It spans a distance of approximately 1,150 miles and takes approximately 17 hours and 45 minutes without any stops.

  2. Route 2 via I-40 W and I-44 W: This route is slightly longer, spanning a distance of approximately 1,195 miles, but is a more scenic option, passing through the Ozark Mountains. It takes around 18 hours and 30 minutes to drive without stops.

  3. Route 3 via I-85 S and I-20 W: This route takes a more southern path and is longer than the others, spanning a distance of approximately 1,300 miles. It takes around 20 hours to drive without any stops, making it a good option if you want to take your time and explore some of the southern states.

Cost of Gas and Other Expenses

Gas prices vary depending on the state, time of year, and other factors. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is $2.91 per gallon, while in Elk City, Oklahoma, it is $2.74 per gallon. These prices are subject to change, so it is best to check the current prices before setting off on your trip.

To estimate the total cost of gas for your trip, you will need to know the distance your vehicle can travel on a full tank as well as the current price of gas in the areas you will be driving through. Assuming an average vehicle mileage of 25 miles per gallon and the current gas prices mentioned above, the estimated gas cost for each of the three routes is as follows:

  1. Route 1: You will need approximately 46 gallons of gas to travel 1,150 miles. The estimated gas cost is $133.86.

  2. Route 2: You will need approximately 48 gallons of gas to travel 1,195 miles. The estimated gas cost is $131.52.

  3. Route 3: You will need approximately 52 gallons of gas to travel 1,300 miles. The estimated gas cost is $150.92.

In addition to gas costs, you will also need to factor in other expenses such as food, lodging, and entertainment. These costs will vary depending on your budget and how long you plan to stay at each location.

Best Route to Take

Based on the above information, the best route to take from Chapel Hill to Elk City is Route 1 via I-40 W. This route is the most direct and has the lowest gas cost of the three options. It also passes through several major cities, such as Memphis and Little Rock, where you can find plenty of food, lodging, and entertainment options, making it more convenient than Route 3.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are planning a road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to Elk City, Oklahoma, you have several routes to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. However, based on the cost of gas and convenience factors, the best route to take is Route 1 via I-40 W. This direct route will take approximately 17 hours and 45 minutes without any stops. With careful planning, you can make the most of your journey and enjoy all the sights and experiences the trip has to offer.