The Cost of Your Road Trip: De Soto, Kansas to Sedalia, Missouri

Planning a road trip can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to estimating the costs associated with it. A trip from De Soto, Kansas, to Sedalia, Missouri, presents car travelers with options that vary in distance, duration, and fuel costs. This article will delve into the various routes you can take, evaluate the associated expenses based on current gas prices, and recommend the most efficient path.

Overview of the Trip

De Soto, located in Douglas County, is known for its peaceful rural setting, while Sedalia, in Pettis County, has a rich history and vibrant downtown. The journey between these two locales involves traveling approximately 120 miles, depending on the route you choose. Current gas prices are around $3.50 per gallon, making fuel costs a significant factor to consider as you prepare for your trip.

Route Options

Route 1: I-70 E via US-50 E

This route is the most straightforward and typically the quickest, covering approximately 120 miles and taking around two hours.

Starting Point: De Soto, KS
Route: From De Soto, take the US-59 N highway until you hit I-70 E. You'll continue on I-70 E until you reach the Sedalia exit, then follow the signs to get into the city.
Distance: 120 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours

Cost Analysis

Fuel Efficiency: Assume a vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon (mpg).
Total Gallons Needed: 120 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 4.8 gallons
Total Fuel Cost: 4.8 gallons × $3.50 = $16.80

This route is the most economical regarding fuel costs and time.

Route 2: US-50 E

For those who prefer scenic routes, the US-50 E option is worth considering. This journey is slightly longer, clocking in at about 130 miles, and takes around two hours and fifteen minutes.

Starting Point: De Soto, KS
Route: Depart from De Soto on US-56 E, merge onto I-35 S briefly, and then take the exit for US-50 E toward Emporia. Stay on US-50 E until you arrive at Sedalia.
Distance: 130 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes

Cost Analysis

Fuel Efficiency: Again, let's use 25 mpg.
Total Gallons Needed: 130 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 5.2 gallons
Total Fuel Cost: 5.2 gallons × $3.50 = $18.20

While this route is longer, it may offer more interesting scenery, especially if you appreciate rural landscapes.

Route 3: I-70 E via the K-10 W

This alternative route takes you through Lawrence, Kansas, giving you a taste of the university town and its bustling atmosphere. The distance for this route is approximately 125 miles, with a travel time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

Starting Point: De Soto, KS
Route: Begin on K-10 W, transition to I-70 E at Lawrence, and follow it to the Sedalia exit.
Distance: 125 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 10 minutes

Cost Analysis

Fuel Efficiency: Assuming 25 mpg again,
Total Gallons Needed: 125 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 5 gallons
Total Fuel Cost: 5 gallons × $3.50 = $17.50

This route is a good compromise, allowing for a bit of sightseeing while keeping costs manageable.

Summary of Costs

Route	Distance (miles)	Estimated Time	Gallons Needed	Fuel Cost
I-70 E via US-50 E	120	2 hours	4.8	$16.80
US-50 E	130	2 hours 15 min	5.2	$18.20
I-70 E via K-10 W	125	2 hours 10 min	5	$17.50

Recommendation: The Best Route

After considering all three options, the best route from De Soto, Kansas, to Sedalia, Missouri, is the I-70 E via US-50 E. This path is not only the most cost-effective, costing just $16.80 in fuel, but it also takes only two hours of driving time, making it an efficient choice for travelers.

For those who can spare a little time, choosing either the US-50 E or the I-70 E via K-10 W route could provide a more scenic, enjoyable experience. However, for the traveler most concerned with minimizing fuel expenses and travel time, the I-70 E route is the clear winner.

Conclusion

Traveling from De Soto, Kansas, to Sedalia, Missouri, usually takes around two hours if you stick to the I-70 E route, which also keeps fuel costs low at approximately $16.80. This road trip can present you with multiple experiences, depending on the route you choose. Ultimately, taking the direct route allows you to spend more time at your destination rather than behind the wheel, making for a more enjoyable travel experience. Whether you choose a straightforward journey or a more scenic path, this trip is sure to be one worth taking.