The Cost of Driving from Charleston, SC to Crystal Lake, IL

Are you planning a road trip from Charleston, South Carolina to Crystal Lake, Illinois? While it may be tempting to simply hop in the car and hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of the trip. Not only do you need to factor in the cost of gas, but also tolls, meals, and any other expenses you may incur along the way. In this post, we'll explore the different routes you can take, the distances, time and costs of each.

Route 1 - Most Direct Route

The most direct route from Charleston to Crystal Lake is via I-77 and I-80. The total distance of this route is approximately 820 miles and the estimated driving time is around 12.5 hours. The cost of gas, based on the average price of $2.78 per gallon, will be around $125.60. Additionally, the tolls cost around $50.00.

Route 2 - Scenic Route

For those who want to enjoy some scenic views along the way, Route 2 may be a better option. This route takes you through the Appalachian Mountains and past cities like Louisville and Indianapolis. The distance is approximately 940 miles and driving time is around 14 hours. The cost of gas would be slightly more, around $143.25, due to the longer distance. Tolls would be around $50.

Route 3 - Budget Route

If you're looking to save some money on gas, you could consider taking Route 3. This route takes you up through Tennessee and Kentucky before heading north towards Illinois. The total distance of this route is approximately 880 miles and the estimated driving time is around 13 hours, 30 minutes. The cost of gas would be around $132.28 and there are no highway tolls on this route.

Final Thoughts

Whatever route you take, make sure you factor in additional expenses like meals and accommodations. Road trips can be a lot of fun, but they can also be expensive if you're not careful. With a little planning and budgeting, however, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip from Charleston, South Carolina to Crystal Lake, Illinois. Safe travels!