The Cost of a Trip from Delavan, Wisconsin to Buffalo Grove, Illinois: Gas Prices and Route Options
Planning a trip from Delavan, Wisconsin, to Buffalo Grove, Illinois? Whether you’re visiting friends, family, or exploring the local sights, understanding the costs involved can help you budget your journey more effectively. With fluctuating gas prices and several potential routes to choose from, determining the true cost of your trip can save you time and money. Let’s delve into the routes available and assess the overall expenses involved.
Overview of the Journey
Delavan, located in Walworth County, Wisconsin, offers scenic views and a small-town vibe. Buffalo Grove, on the other hand, is a suburban gem in Lake County, Illinois, known for its family-friendly environment and numerous amenities. The distance between the two towns is approximately 70 miles, but the journey can take you through a variety of landscapes and townships.
Current Gas Prices
Before breaking down the routes and calculating the overall cost, it’s essential to consider the current average gas price. As of October 2023, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Wisconsin is approximately $3.60, while in Illinois, it sits around $4.00. For our cost calculations, we'll use an average price of $3.80 per gallon, acknowledging fluctuations.
Vehicle Fuel Efficiency
To estimate fuel costs, you'll need to know the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Let’s use an average sedan with a fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (mpg). This figure will allow us to calculate the approximate cost of fuel for each route.
Route Options
1. I-43 S and I-90 E
Distance: Approximately 75 miles
Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
This is one of the most direct routes you can take between Delavan and Buffalo Grove. You will start on I-43 S and merge onto I-90 E. This interstate route offers seamless travel with minimal stop-and-go traffic.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- Total distance: 75 miles
- Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg
- Gallons needed: ( \frac{75 \text}{30 \text} = 2.5 \text )
- Cost of gas: ( 2.5 \text \times 3.80 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 9.50 \text )
2. US-12 E
Distance: Approximately 71 miles
Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes
This route involves taking US-12 E directly into Buffalo Grove. It is slightly shorter than the interstate option, but traffic can vary depending on the time of day. This route is particularly scenic, passing through some rural areas and smaller towns.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- Total distance: 71 miles
- Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg
- Gallons needed: ( \frac{71 \text}{30 \text} \approx 2.37 \text )
- Cost of gas: ( 2.37 \text \times 3.80 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 9.00 \text )
3. I-94 E
Distance: Approximately 80 miles
Estimated Time: About 1 hour and 40 minutes
Another option is I-94 E, which connects through Chicago. This route offers a more urban experience and features numerous attractions, but it typically encounters more traffic.
Fuel Cost Calculation:
- Total distance: 80 miles
- Fuel efficiency: 30 mpg
- Gallons needed: ( \frac{80 \text}{30 \text} \approx 2.67 \text )
- Cost of gas: ( 2.67 \text \times 3.80 \text{ dollars/gallon} \approx 10.13 \text )
Summary of Costs and Best Route
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost (dollars) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-43 S and I-90 E | 75 | 1:30 | 9.50 |
| US-12 E | 71 | 1:20 | 9.00 |
| I-94 E | 80 | 1:40 | 10.13 |
After evaluating the three routes, US-12 E presents the best option to travel from Delavan to Buffalo Grove. Not only does it provide the shortest distance and a pleasant drive through beautiful rural landscapes, but it also offers the most economical fuel cost of approximately $9.00. You can arrive at your destination in roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Tips for a Cost-Effective Trip
- Plan Ahead: Consider the time of day you’ll be traveling. Rush hour traffic can significantly increase travel time and fuel consumption.
- Drive Smoothly: Aggressive driving can decrease fuel efficiency, so work on maintaining a steady speed and gentle acceleration.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, including tire pressure and air filter, as this can improve fuel economy.
- Carpool: If possible, sharing the ride with family and friends can help you split fuel costs and reduce individual expenses.
Conclusion
Traveling from Delavan, Wisconsin, to Buffalo Grove, Illinois, is a delightful experience, combining beautiful scenery with varying routes. Choosing the US-12 E route offers the shortest distance and minimizes fuel costs, ensuring your trip remains budget-friendly. Expect to spend about $9.00 on gas and take approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach your destination. With the right planning and preparation, your trip can be both enjoyable and economical. Happy travels!