Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Daugherty Township, Pennsylvania to Gillette, Wyoming Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be an exciting adventure. It’s essential to know the route you will take, the distance involved, and the cost of gas along the way. Driving from Daugherty Township, Pennsylvania, to Gillette, Wyoming offers various itineraries. In this article, we will explore the different routes, calculate their distances, and analyze the cost based on recent gas prices to help you decide the best option for your road trip.
Route Options
There are three primary routes to consider when driving from Daugherty Township to Gillette. Each route presents unique scenic views, attractions, and variations in distance and cost. Here’s a breakdown of the three main options.
Route 1: I-80 W
Distance: Approximately 1,250 miles
Driving Time: About 19 hours without breaks
Cost Calculation: The current average gas price in the U.S. is approximately $3.50 per gallon. Your vehicle’s miles per gallon (MPG) will significantly affect the cost. For example, if your vehicle averages 25 MPG, you will need about 50 gallons of gas for this trip.
Fuel Cost:
50 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $175
Overview:
Taking I-80 W means traveling across the breadth of Pennsylvania before connecting to the major highway. This route passes through cities such as Columbus, Ohio, and offers scenic views of the Midwest. Although it is the longest distance, it provides a steady cruising speed on highway roads. Expect a mix of urban and rural scenery, with plenty of rest stops along the way.
Route 2: I-70 W to I-25 N
Distance: Approximately 1,180 miles
Driving Time: Roughly 18 hours without breaks
Cost Calculation: Using the same MPG and gas price as before:
Fuel Requirement: Approximately 47 gallons
Fuel Cost:
47 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $164.50
Overview:
This route allows you to take I-70 W through Ohio, transitioning into Illinois and Kansas before hitting I-25 N toward Wyoming. This route passes through stunning landscapes, including the plains of Kansas and the scenic Rockies in Colorado. While being slightly shorter, it could take slightly longer due to potential mountain traffic and varying speed limits.
Route 3: I-76 W to I-80 W
Distance: Approximately 1,230 miles
Driving Time: Roughly 19 hours without breaks
Cost Calculation: Again, factoring in the same variables:
Fuel Requirement: Approximately 49 gallons
Fuel Cost:
49 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $171.50
Overview:
This route takes you southwest through the scenic parts of Pennsylvania before hitting I-76 W, with a leisurely drive featuring rolling hills and farmland scenery. After connecting to I-80 W, you will rejoin the path to Gillette. This route may appear slightly longer in terms of mileage, but it offers a quicker pace in some areas, creating a similar travel experience to Route 1.
Route Comparison and Recommendations
Total Estimated Costs and Travel Times
| Route | Distance (miles) | Driving Time (hours) | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-80 W | 1,250 | 19 | $175 |
| I-70 W to I-25 N | 1,180 | 18 | $164.50 |
| I-76 W to I-80 W | 1,230 | 19 | $171.50 |
Best Route Recommendation
Among the three routes, taking the I-70 W to I-25 N route seems the most cost-effective with the best balance of distance and estimated driving time. This route not only saves approximately $10 compared to the longest route, but it also provides a unique experience traversing some beautiful landscapes across the Midwest.
Other Expenses to Consider
While fuel cost is a significant expense to consider when planning your road trip, other factors contribute to the overall cost. Accommodation, food, tolls, and potential roadside entertainment can add up quickly. Here’s a brief overview of these costs:
Accommodation
If you plan to do this trip over two days, consider hotel costs. Depending on your budget, hotel prices might range from $60 to $160 per night. If halfway across the country, booking a hotel average around $100 might be a fair estimate.
Food
Food expenses can vary, but budgeting around $40 to $60 per day for meals can provide a comfortable travel experience, including roadside diners and fast-food options.
Tolls
Some routes may include a fair share of toll roads. The cost of tolls can add anywhere from $5 to $30 depending on the specific highway and state regulations.
Miscellaneous Costs
Consider additional expenses such as snacks, drinks, activities, or any unexpected emergencies. Planning an extra $50 to $100 could help buffer against surprises.
Conclusion
The journey from Daugherty Township, Pennsylvania, to Gillette, Wyoming, offers diverse routes packed with picturesque views and exciting roadside attractions. The I-70 W to I-25 N route stands out as the most economical choice, covering approximately 1,180 miles with an estimated fuel cost of around $164.50. Traveling by car can take about 18 hours, not considering breaks or hotel stays. This trip presents an opportunity to experience some of America’s vast terrain and could be an unforgettable journey. Prepare for the road ahead, take breaks, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes as you transition from the East to the mountainous regions of the West!