Road Trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Saint Louis, Missouri: A Journey of Fuel Costs and Distances
Traveling from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Saint Louis, Missouri can be a fun and exciting road trip to discover the hidden gems of the southern US states. However, with fuel costs skyrocketing, finding the most fuel-efficient route can be a big deal. Below are some of the routes that you can consider and their overall cost.
The Trip Route
There are several options to choose from when planning a road trip from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to St. Louis, Missouri. These routes include:
Route 1: I-40 W
This route covers 867 miles in 13 hours and 55 minutes. Travel west on I-40 and take several turns. Before you hit Memphis, take I-240 W and merge on I-55 N to Missouri. This route costs approximately $133.06 in fuel and tolls.
Route 2: I-85 S and I-65 N
This route covers 845 miles in 13 hours and 25 minutes. Take I-85 south to Atlanta and then merge onto I-65 N. Travel through Nashville and into Missouri. This route costs around $131.80 in fuel and tolls.
Route 3: I-85 S and I-59 W
This is a 871-mile route that will take you 14 hours and 18 minutes. Take I-85 south and then merge onto I-20 W. Travel through Atlanta and Birmingham, then take I-59 W at Tuscaloosa. Exit at I-24 W and then through Terre Haute to St. Louis. The fuel and toll for this route is approximately $138.56.
Fuel Costs and Tolls
Fuel cost is a crucial factor when deciding which route to take. The cost of fuel varies in different states, and it is essential to factor this cost to the total price of the trip. There are also toll fees in some of these routes, which will add to the cost. Below is a breakdown of fuel and toll costs for each route:
| Route | Distance | Fuel Cost (Based on an economic car with gas mileage of 25 mpg) | Tolls |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-40 W | 867 miles | $117.06 | $16 |
| I-85 S and I-65 N | 845 miles | $115.80 | $16 |
| I-85 S and I-59 W | 871 miles | $124.56 | No toll |
Calculating your total fuel cost plus the tolls fees would be necessary before finalizing the route to take.
The Best Route to Take
Choosing which route to take ultimately depends on your preference and budget. However, based on insight from fuel cost and time, the best choice to make would be I-85 S and I-65 N because of its shorter distance and tolls. However, if you prefer to have no tolls at all, then the best route would be I-85 S and I-59 W.
Conclusion
The journey from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Saint Louis, Missouri is approximately a thousand miles long. Road trips are often the best way to travel because of the journey's experience. With the different options available, choosing the best route for your trip depends on your fuel cost, budget, and preference. Choosing the best route will help you save fuel costs and make your trip more enjoyable. Irrespective of the route you choose, always stay hydrated, and have fun on your road trip!