The Cost of a Trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Wichita Falls, Texas: A Breakdown of Gas Prices and Route Options
Traveling from Columbia, South Carolina to Wichita Falls, Texas can be an exciting and adventurous road trip. However, one of the most important factors to consider before embarking on this journey is the cost of gas. With fluctuating gas prices, it's essential to plan your route and budget accordingly to ensure a smooth and affordable trip. In this article, we'll break down the different route options, their respective gas costs, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Route Options
Option 1: I-20 W
The first route option for traveling from Columbia, South Carolina to Wichita Falls, Texas is via I-20 W. This route covers a distance of approximately 980 miles and takes around 14 hours to drive without factoring in stops. The current average gas price along this route is $2.85 per gallon. Based on the average fuel efficiency of a car (24.7 miles per gallon), the estimated total cost of gas for this route is $107.30 (roundtrip).
Option 2: I-20 W and I-49 S
Another possible route is to take I-20 W and I-49 S, covering a total distance of about 1,050 miles and a driving time of approximately 15 hours. The current average gas price along this route is also $2.85 per gallon. Based on the same fuel efficiency, the estimated total cost of gas for this route is approximately $112.60 (roundtrip).
Option 3: I-20 W, I-49 S, and US-287 N
A third route option includes I-20 W, I-49 S, and US-287 N, totaling around 1,130 miles and a driving time of about 16 hours. The average gas price along this route is slightly higher at $2.90 per gallon. Based on the same fuel efficiency, the estimated total cost of gas for this route is around $117.85 (roundtrip).
Recommended Route
Based on the current gas prices and the total cost of gas for each route, the most cost-effective option for traveling from Columbia, South Carolina to Wichita Falls, Texas is via I-20 W. This route offers a balance of distance, driving time, and gas cost, making it the recommended choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the total cost of gas for a roundtrip from Columbia, South Carolina to Wichita Falls, Texas varies depending on the chosen route and current gas prices. As of now, taking the I-20 W route is the most cost-effective option, with an estimated total gas cost of $107.30 for the entire trip. However, it's important to keep in mind that gas prices are subject to change, so it's advisable to check for the latest fuel prices before hitting the road. Safe travels!