On the Road Again: The Cost of Driving from Dayton, Ohio to Lake Charles, Louisiana Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Dayton to Lake Charles? You're in for a scenic adventure! However, before hitting the road, it's essential to consider not just the journey's thrills but also the costs involved. So, let’s break down a couple of potential routes you could take, along with their distances, travel times, and estimated expenses based on today's gas prices.
Route 1: I-65 South via Montgomery
Taking the I-65 South route is a popular option, especially if you enjoy some views along the way. This journey stretches for about 650 miles and takes approximately 10 hours of driving time.
Now, let’s talk about the costs. If we assume the average gas price in October 2023 is around $3.35 per gallon and your vehicle averages around 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 26 gallons of gas for this route. That brings your total fuel cost to approximately $87.10. Keep in mind, there are no major tolls on this route, which is always a plus!
Route 2: I-70 West to I-55 South
Another fantastic option is taking I-70 West to I-55 South. This scenic route is slightly longer at 684 miles and will take about 11 hours of driving time, but it offers some beautiful views of the Midwest landscape.
For this journey, using the same gas price of $3.35 per gallon and a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, you would need about 27.36 gallons of gas. Therefore, your total fuel cost would be approximately $91.66. Similar to Route 1, this route also has minimal tolls, which keeps your journey budget-friendly.
Summary of Costs
To summarize:
Route 1 (I-65 South)
- Distance: 650 miles
- Time: 10 hours
- Gas Cost: $87.10
- Tolls: $0
Route 2 (I-70 West to I-55 South)
- Distance: 684 miles
- Time: 11 hours
- Gas Cost: $91.66
- Tolls: $0
Final Thoughts
Remember, these figures are based on average gas prices and mileage estimates, so it's always a good idea to check your specific vehicle's fuel efficiency and look up the most current gas prices for a more accurate estimate. Whichever route you choose, you're bound to have an extraordinary experience driving from Dayton to Lake Charles. Ensure to pack some snacks, play your favorite road trip tunes, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination! Safe travels!