Cost of a Trip from Davenport, Iowa to Oswego, Illinois: Exploring Routes Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Davenport, Iowa to Oswego, Illinois can be an exciting journey filled with beautiful landscapes and vibrant towns. However, understanding the costs associated with the trip, especially regarding fuel expenses, is vital for planning your adventure. This article delves into various routes you can take, detailing the distance and cost based on current gas prices while providing insights on the best route for a smooth and economical journey.
Current Gas Prices
As of October 2023, the average gas price in Iowa is approximately $3.45 per gallon, while the average prices in Illinois hover around $3.60 per gallon. For our calculations, we will use these figures to assess the total cost of fuel for the trip:
- Average fuel economy: Let's assume your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon (mpg).
Understanding fuel prices is critical because they fluctuate almost daily. The prices mentioned above may vary by the time you plan your trip, so keeping an eye on local gas prices can help you save money.
Overview of Routes
The distance between Davenport and Oswego is roughly 165 miles. However, there are a few different routes to consider, all offering unique experiences along the way. Below are some popular routes for the trip, along with their details.
Route 1: Interstate 88 (I-88) Via I-80
- Distance: Approximately 165 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cost of Fuel:
- Total miles for round trip: 330 miles
- Gallons of Gas Needed: 330 / 25 = 13.2 gallons
- Cost of Fuel: 13.2 gallons x $3.60 = $47.52
Description: This is one of the most direct and quickest routes through the I-88 corridor. You’ll start your trip on I-80 E, connecting to I-88, which leads to your destination relatively smoothly.
Route 2: U.S. Route 20
- Distance: Approximately 170 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours
- Cost of Fuel:
- Total miles for round trip: 340 miles
- Gallons of Gas Needed: 340 / 25 = 13.6 gallons
- Cost of Fuel: 13.6 gallons x $3.45 = $46.92
Description: This route offers a more scenic experience, taking you through smaller towns and cities along Route 20. It's particularly lovely in the fall, with the beautiful changing colors of trees.
Route 3: Interstate 80 (I-80) East to Route 47
- Distance: Approximately 170 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Cost of Fuel:
- Total miles for round trip: 340 miles
- Gallons of Gas Needed: 340 / 25 = 13.6 gallons
- Cost of Fuel: 13.6 gallons x $3.60 = $48.96
Description: By following I-80 E and then taking Route 47, you’ll bypass some heavy city traffic, but this route may not be as straightforward as I-88. It incorporates more local roads, which may require additional navigation.
Summary of Route Costs
| Route | Distance (miles) | Time (hours) | Total Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interstate 88 via I-80 | 165 | 2.5 | 47.52 |
| U.S. Route 20 | 170 | 3 | 46.92 |
| Interstate 80 to Route 47 | 170 | 2.75 | 48.96 |
Recommendation: The Best Route
After analyzing the different routes, the best option is Route 1 (I-88 via I-80). Not only does it cover a direct distance of approximately 165 miles, but it also offers a balanced driving time and fuel cost, making it the fastest and most economical route.
Why Choose Route 1?
- Efficiency: With a travel time of roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes, this route saves you time compared to others, allowing for a more enjoyable trip.
- Cost-Effectiveness: At approximately $47.52 for fuel, it offers the best total cost in relation to fuel economy and distance.
- Convenience: I-88 is well-maintained and straightforward, minimizing the risk of getting lost or encountering roadwork disruptions.
Conclusion
Traveling from Davenport, Iowa to Oswego, Illinois offers an array of beautiful landscapes and experiences to savor along the way. By choosing Route 1 via I-88, you spend around 2.5 hours on the road and incur a fuel cost of about $47.52. This route not only provides a balance of time and cost-effectiveness but also simplifies navigation, allowing you to enjoy your trip without any unnecessary stress. Happy travels!