Cost of a Road Trip from Denver, Colorado to Des Moines, Iowa: Navigating Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be a thrilling adventure that also demands careful budgeting. When driving from Denver, Colorado, to Des Moines, Iowa, various factors come into play, including distance, current gas prices, and route options. This article breaks down those components, calculates the potential costs involved, and recommends the best route for your journey.
Distance and Route Options
Traveling from Denver to Des Moines, you'll primarily consider two main routes:
Route 1: Interstate 70 East and Interstate 80 East
- Distance: Approximately 600 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 9-10 hours
- Route Overview: Begin on Interstate 70 east out of Denver, then transition to Interstate 80 east in Nebraska. This route takes you through scenic stretches of the Colorado Rockies and across the vast plains of Nebraska.
Route 2: Interstate 25 North and Interstate 80 East
- Distance: Approximately 610 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 10-11 hours
- Route Overview: Head north on Interstate 25 to connect with Interstate 80. This route is slightly longer but takes you through the larger cities of Fort Collins and Cheyenne, Wyoming, before you head into Nebraska.
For both routes, expect varying landscapes: mountains, plains, and charming Midwest towns. Each route has its merits, but we’ll compare costs to determine the most economical option.
Calculating Fuel Costs
To calculate fuel costs, we need to consider the current gas prices and average vehicle fuel efficiency.
Gas Prices
As of now, the average gas price in the United States hovers around $3.50 per gallon. However, prices can fluctuate based on location and local supply. Always check the most current prices before you hit the road.
Average Vehicle Fuel Efficiency
Assuming a standard vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate fuel needs for both routes.
Fuel Needs Calculation
Route 1: I-70 East to I-80 East
- Total Distance: 600 miles
- Fuel Consumption: 600 miles / 25 mpg = 24 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 24 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $84
Route 2: I-25 North to I-80 East
- Total Distance: 610 miles
- Fuel Consumption: 610 miles / 25 mpg = 24.4 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 24.4 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $85.40
Summary of Fuel Costs
| Route | Distance (miles) | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|
| I-70 East and I-80 East | 600 | $84 |
| I-25 North and I-80 East | 610 | $85.40 |
From this comparison, the first route, taking Interstate 70 and then 80, emerges as the more cost-effective option.
Additional Costs to Consider
While fuel costs dominate road trip expenses, additional factors also affect your overall budget. Here are a few aspects to keep in mind:
Meals
Plan stops for meals along your drive. Depending on dining options, budget at least $10 to $15 per meal per person. Assuming a two-day itinerary with three meals a day, a solo traveler might spend approximately $60 to $90 on food for the trip.
Lodging
If you don't plan to drive straight through, consider lodging expenses as well. Budget hotels average around $100 to $150 per night. For one night, this means an additional expense of $100 to $150 if you stay overnight.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Factor in toll fees, snacks, or other travel-related expenses. Approximately $20 to $30 should cover unforeseen costs during your trip.
Recommended Route: I-70 East to I-80 East
After analyzing the various routes and corresponding costs, I recommend traveling via Interstate 70 East and connecting to Interstate 80 East. This route not only is the more economical option in terms of fuel costs but also provides a more direct journey with stunning landscapes and ample opportunities for rest stops.
The drive from Denver to Des Moines along this path showcases rolling hills and charming towns. The slight time investment for stopping at scenic viewpoints provides a worthwhile balance between efficiency and enjoyment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Des Moines, Iowa, requires a strategic approach to routes and budgeting. The journey will take around 9 to 10 hours, covering approximately 600 miles while costing around $84 in fuel. This trip is not just a means of transport; it’s an opportunity to explore the picturesque Colorado landscape and the serenity of the Midwest. Embrace the adventure ahead and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way!