Road Trip Budgeting: The Cost of Driving from Des Moines, WA to Springfield, OR Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exciting, and it's essential to get a clear idea of what you might spend along the way. If you’re gearing up for a drive from Des Moines, Washington, to Springfield, Oregon, knowing the costs can help you budget effectively. In this post, we’ll explore a few routes, their distances, estimated drive times, and, of course, the cost of gas!
Route 1: I-5 South
The most straightforward route is via I-5 South, a route that is well-traveled and offers picturesque views of the Pacific Northwest.
- Distance: approximately 280 miles
- Time: around 4 hours and 30 minutes
Now, let’s break down the cost. Assuming a gas price of $4.00 per gallon and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon for your vehicle, you will need about 11.2 gallons of gas for the trip. Therefore, the total cost of gas will be around:
[ 11.2 \text \times $4.00/\text = $44.80 ]
Additionally, you won't encounter any tolls on this route, making it an economical choice.
Route 2: I-5 South with a Scenic Detour
If you’re in the mood for a little adventure, consider taking a scenic detour via WA-164 and WA-99 before getting back on I-5. Though it adds some time and distance, it's perfect for sightseeing.
- Distance: approximately 295 miles
- Time: about 5 hours and 15 minutes
This route might have you using slightly more gas, especially with all the winding roads and stops for views. With an estimate of 12 gallons of gas needed, your costs would look like this:
[ 12 \text \times $4.00/\text = $48.00 ]
Again, there are no tolls along this route, so you won’t have any hidden expenses!
Route 3: Backroads Adventure via OR-126
For those who love exploring off the beaten path, taking OR-126 as your entry into Oregon will offer beautiful landscapes and smaller towns along the route.
- Distance: approximately 305 miles
- Time: around 5 hours and 45 minutes
Since this route requires more fuel due to its winding roads, you might be looking at approximately 12.2 gallons of gas. At our $4.00 per gallon fuel price, your estimated cost would be:
[ 12.2 \text \times $4.00/\text = $48.80 ]
This route also does not include any tolls, making it a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who want to make the journey memorable.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, driving from Des Moines, WA to Springfield, OR can range from about $44.80 to $48.80 depending on your chosen route. Each option has its unique charm, so consider how much time you want to spend on the road and the type of scenery you wish to experience. Regardless of the path you choose, you’ll save money compared to airline tickets, and you’ll gain the joy of a scenic road trip.
Get your car ready, pack some snacks, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Safe travels!