The Cost of a Trip: Crystal Lake, Illinois to Glendale, Wisconsin Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

When planning a trip from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Glendale, Wisconsin, one of the major factors to consider is the cost of transportation, particularly gasoline prices. With varying routes and gas prices, it is important to weigh the options to determine the most cost-effective way to reach your destination.

Route Options and Mileage

Route 1: I-43 N

Taking I-43 N is the most direct route between Crystal Lake and Glendale. The total distance is approximately 95 miles, with an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, it is important to consider the current gas prices as they directly impact the overall cost of the trip.

Route 2: US-12 W

Another possible route is taking US-12 W, which is slightly longer at approximately 100 miles. The estimated travel time is around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Again, the fluctuating gas prices will influence the cost of this route.

Route 3: Combination of I-43 N and US-12W

Some travelers prefer a combination of the above routes, using I-43 N for a portion of the journey and switching to US-12 W for the remainder. This hybrid route may offer a balance between distance and cost, depending on the current gas prices along each stretch.

Gas Prices Analysis

The cost of the trip heavily relies on the current gas prices along the chosen route. At the time of writing, the average gas price in Illinois is $2.25 per gallon, while in Wisconsin, it is $2.45 per gallon. These prices will fluctuate, impacting the cost of the entire trip.

Based on the average mileage of a car, which is 25 miles per gallon, and an average fuel consumption of 1 gallon per 25 miles, it is possible to estimate the cost of the trip for each route taking into account the current gas prices.

Route 1: I-43 N

Given the mileage and current gas prices, the estimated cost for the trip on I-43 N is approximately $21.19. This includes the cost of gas for the entire journey based on the current gas prices and the distance to be covered.

Route 2: US-12 W

With the longer distance and the varying gas prices, the estimated cost for the trip on US-12 W is approximately $22.50. The difference in gas prices between Illinois and Wisconsin adds to the overall cost over the longer distance.

Route 3: Combination of I-43 N and US-12W

For the hybrid route, the estimated cost of the trip is around $21.70, taking into account the varying gas prices between the two states.

Recommended Route

Based on the current gas prices and distance, the most cost-effective route for the trip from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Glendale, Wisconsin is I-43 N. Despite being slightly shorter than US-12 W, the savings in gas costs make it the most economical choice for this journey.

Conclusion

After careful analysis of the different route options and the current gas prices, it is evident that taking I-43 N is the most cost-effective way to travel from Crystal Lake to Glendale. Although the distance may vary, the impact of gas prices ultimately determines the overall cost of the trip. After taking I-43 N, the trip took approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it not only the most economical but also a time-effective option.