A Cost Breakdown for Your Road Trip from De Pere, Wisconsin to Indianapolis, Indiana Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip between De Pere, Wisconsin, and Indianapolis, Indiana, presents an exciting adventure, but it also requires some practical considerations, especially if you want to stay within budget. Various routes offer different distances and experiences, and current gas prices play a vital role in determining the total cost of your trip. This article will walk you through different routes, their distances, cost estimates based on current gas prices, and finally recommend the most economical option.
Understanding Current Gas Prices
Before we dive into routes and costs, let’s examine the current state of gas prices. As of recent data, the average gas price in Wisconsin stands at approximately $3.60 per gallon, while in Indiana, it hovers around $3.40 per gallon. For this trip analysis, we will use a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon for an average vehicle, a good estimate for both compact and mid-sized cars.
Calculating Fuel Costs
To calculate the cost of fuel for your trip, we will follow this simple formula:
- Total Distance Traveled - This will be the sum of the distances for each route.
- Fuel Efficiency - Dividing the total distance by miles per gallon gives the number of gallons needed.
- Fuel Price - Multiplying the number of gallons needed by the average gas price gives the total fuel cost.
Overview of Routes
Route 1: I-94 E and I-65 S
One of the most popular and direct routes is taking I-94 E to I-65 S. This route spans around 380 miles and typically offers a drive time of approximately 6 hours without significant traffic.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 380 miles
- Gallons Needed: 380 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 15.2 gallons
- Cost: 15.2 gallons × $3.60 (for Wisconsin gas) = $54.72
Route 2: US-151 S and I-65 S
Another favorable option involves traveling via US-151 S and connecting to I-65 S. This route measures about 395 miles and generally takes about 6 hours and 15 minutes.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 395 miles
- Gallons Needed: 395 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 15.8 gallons
- Cost: 15.8 gallons × $3.60 (for Wisconsin gas) = $56.88
Route 3: I-39 S and I-70 E
For those willing to take a scenic detour, consider the I-39 S and I-70 E combination. This route goes through some beautiful rural areas and is approximately 420 miles long, extending your travel time to 6 hours and 50 minutes.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 420 miles
- Gallons Needed: 420 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 16.8 gallons
- Cost: 16.8 gallons × $3.40 (for Indiana gas) = $57.12
Comparing Routes
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Fuel Cost ($) | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-94 E / I-65 S | 380 | 54.72 | 6 hours |
| US-151 S / I-65 S | 395 | 56.88 | 6 hours 15 minutes |
| I-39 S / I-70 E | 420 | 57.12 | 6 hours 50 minutes |
From this table, the most cost-effective route is clearly the first one, taking I-94 E and I-65 S. It provides the shortest distance and the least amount of fuel cost.
Recommendations for Scenic Stops
Should you wish to add a few scenic stops to your trip, consider these options along the recommended route:
1. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Just an hour into the trip, the vibrant city of Milwaukee surprises travelers with its rich history, fantastic museums, and craft breweries.
2. Madison, Wisconsin
As the state’s capital, Madison is home to beautiful lakes, parks, and an energetic atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a lunch break.
3. Indianapolis, Indiana
Once you reach your destination, explore the many attractions—such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis Zoo—concluding your road trip in style.
Conclusion
In summary, taking a road trip from De Pere, Wisconsin, to Indianapolis, Indiana, through I-94 E and I-65 S is the best option in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Covering around 380 miles, the trip takes about 6 hours and incurs a fuel cost of approximately $54.72 based on current gas prices. Enjoy the journey, embrace the scenery, and arrive at your destination ready for an adventure in Indianapolis!