The Cost of a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Glen Carbon, Illinois

The cost of a trip between two locations can vary based on various factors, such as the mode of transportation, distance, and current gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between Chicago, Illinois and Glen Carbon, Illinois, and highlight the cost and distance of each one. Based on these factors, we will then recommend the best route to take.

Route 1: Via I-55 S and I-64 E

One possible route to travel from Chicago, Illinois to Glen Carbon, Illinois is by taking I-55 S and I-64 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 297 miles. To calculate the estimated cost of the trip, we need to consider the average gas mileage, current gas prices, and the vehicle's fuel tank capacity.

Assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) and an average gas price of $2.50 per gallon, we can calculate the total fuel cost for this route as follows:

distance = 297
average_mpg = 25
gas_price = 2.50
fuel_cost = (distance / average_mpg) * gas_price

Using this calculation, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be $35.70.

Route 2: Via I-57 S and I-70 E

Another possible route to travel between the two locations is by taking I-57 S and I-70 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 314 miles. Let's calculate the estimated fuel cost using the same assumptions as before.

distance = 314
average_mpg = 25
gas_price = 2.50
fuel_cost = (distance / average_mpg) * gas_price

The estimated fuel cost for this route would be $37.60.

Route 3: Via IL-127 S and I-270 E

A third alternative route is to take IL-127 S and I-270 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 288 miles. Let's calculate the estimated fuel cost for this route.

distance = 288
average_mpg = 25
gas_price = 2.50
fuel_cost = (distance / average_mpg) * gas_price

The estimated fuel cost for this route would be $34.56.

Route 4: Via IL-157 S and I-270 E

Lastly, another possible route is to take IL-157 S and I-270 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 281 miles. Let's calculate the estimated fuel cost for this route.

distance = 281
average_mpg = 25
gas_price = 2.50
fuel_cost = (distance / average_mpg) * gas_price

The estimated fuel cost for this route would be $33.72.

Recommendation: The Best Route

After analyzing the different routes and their respective costs, the route that offers the lowest estimated fuel cost is Route 4: Via IL-157 S and I-270 E, which costs approximately $33.72. Although the difference in fuel cost among the routes is not substantial, every penny saved can add up, especially during long-distance trips.

It's important to note that there might be other factors to consider when choosing a route, such as traffic conditions, road closures, and personal preferences. Therefore, it's advisable to use GPS navigation systems or map apps to remain updated on real-time road conditions and choose the most convenient route accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Glen Carbon, Illinois can be primarily determined by the distance and current gas prices. After considering the different possible routes, we recommend taking Route 4: Via IL-157 S and I-270 E, which has the lowest estimated fuel cost of $33.72. However, it's essential to stay informed about road conditions and consider other variables that may affect the overall travel experience.

The travel time for this recommended route would depend on factors such as traffic, speed, and stops along the way. However, an estimated average travel time between Chicago, Illinois, and Glen Carbon, Illinois, taking Route 4, would be around 4-5 hours.