Driving Cost from Des Moines, Iowa to Destin, Florida

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Destin, Florida Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Destin, Florida can be an exciting adventure filled with picturesque landscapes and the joy of hitting the open road. However, one of the most critical factors to consider when planning this journey is the cost associated with travel, especially gas prices. With rising fuel costs, understanding the best route and its expenses can prepare you financially and allow you to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

Overview of the Journey

The distance from Des Moines to Destin is approximately 670 miles, depending on the route taken. The average driving time is roughly 10 to 11 hours, making it feasible to complete the trip in a day with minimal stops. However, depending on your travel plans, you may choose to take longer with sightseeing or overnight stays along the way.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline nationwide hovers around $3.45 per gallon. Given this figure, travelers will need to estimate the cost of gas, which forms a significant part of the overall trip budget. To facilitate these calculations, it’s essential to know your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Let’s say your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon.

  • Total Miles: 670 miles
  • Total Gallons Needed: 670 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 26.8 gallons
  • Total Cost of Gas: 26.8 gallons × $3.45/gallon ≈ $92.61

While this is a rough estimate, it provides a baseline for how much you can expect to spend on fuel during your trip.

Possible Routes

There are several routes you can take from Des Moines to Destin. We will analyze three main routes: Route I-80 E, Route I-35 S, and Route US-63 S. Each route has its merits and trade-offs regarding distance, scenery, and cost.

Route 1: Via I-80 E

  • Distance: 670 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
  • Route Overview: This route takes you through major highways and interstates, crossing into Illinois before heading south through the scenic terrain of Missouri and Arkansas.
  1. Starting Point: Des Moines, IA
  2. Key Stops:
    • Iowa City, IA
    • Columbia, MO
    • Little Rock, AR
    • Memphis, TN
  3. Driving Conditions: Mostly highway driving with urban and suburban settings. Some scenic rural sections in Missouri.

Cost Analysis:

Using the fuel estimation above, traveling this route would cost approximately $92.61 for gas.

Route 2: Via I-35 S

  • Distance: 680 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 11 hours
  • Route Overview: This route travels directly south on I-35 into Missouri, continuing through Kansas City before heading east to Memphis, and then south to Destin.
  1. Starting Point: Des Moines, IA
  2. Key Stops:
    • Kansas City, MO
    • Memphis, TN
  3. Driving Conditions: Similar to the first route, it includes highways and urban centers with limited scenic detours.

Cost Analysis:

This route would cost approximately $95.08 for gas based on the same fuel efficiency.

Route 3: Via US-63 S

  • Distance: 700 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 12 hours
  • Route Overview: This route gives travelers an opportunity to enjoy smaller towns and scenic landscapes. It primarily involves taking US-63 for a more leisurely drive after departing from I-80.
  1. Starting Point: Des Moines, IA
  2. Key Stops:
    • Kirksville, MO
    • Memphis, TN
  3. Driving Conditions: A combination of highways and rural roads with more opportunities for natural scenery and small-town charm.

Cost Analysis:

Given the longer distance, this route would result in a gas cost of approximately $98.55.

Among the options, the best route to take is definitely Route 1 via I-80 E. It offers the most direct path to Destin, providing an attractive blend of city sights and rural landscapes while being the most cost-effective choice. The reduced gas expenditure and shorter travel time compared to other routes make this option appealing.

Additional Costs

While gas will be the most significant expense on the trip, other costs may include:

  1. Food: Expect to spend about $30-$50 per person for meals along the way.
  2. Lodging: If you choose to break up the trip and stay overnight, hotel prices can range from $70 to $150, depending on the area and your preferences. Budget-friendly options, like motels or campsites, may help reduce expenses.
  3. Attractions: If you plan to explore attractions in Memphis or nearby areas, consider budgeting additional funds for entrance fees.

Sample Budget Summary

Item Estimated Cost
Gas $92.61
Food $30 - $50
Lodging (1 Night) $70 - $150
Attractions $20 - $50
Total Estimated Cost $212.61 - $343.61

Conclusion

Traveling from Des Moines to Destin can be both an adventurous and economical journey, provided you plan your route effectively. The I-80 E route stands out as the best choice, offering the most efficiency in both time and cost. Depending on your stops and preferences, you can complete the trip in about 10-11 hours with an expenditure of approximately $92.61 for gas alone. Overall, this trip promises a refreshing blend of relaxation, exploration, and scenic beauty as you make your way to the stunning beaches of Destin, Florida.