Driving Cost from Des Moines, Washington to Trenton, New Jersey

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving From Des Moines, WA to Trenton, NJ: A Gas Price Analysis

Planning a road trip from Des Moines, Washington, to Trenton, New Jersey, can be both exciting and daunting. The open road beckons, but you'll want to factor in the costs, particularly when it comes to gas prices and tolls. Let’s break down the different routes, their distances, travel times, and overall costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-80 E Via I-84 E

The first option is to take the scenic I-80 E route, which is quite popular among travelers.

  • Distance: 2,600 miles
  • Estimated Time: 38 hours (not including rest breaks)

To calculate the gas cost, let's assume you're driving a vehicle that gets around 25 miles per gallon. At the current average gas price of $4.50 per gallon:

  1. Total gallons needed = 2,600 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 104 gallons
  2. Total gas cost = 104 gallons × $4.50 = $468

Additionally, depending on your chosen path, you might encounter tolls, especially as you get closer to New Jersey. Tolls can total around $100 on this route. Thus, the total cost for Route 1 is approximately $568.

Route 2: I-90 E Via I-84 E

Another option is to take I-90 E, which also leads to Trenton.

  • Distance: 2,700 miles
  • Estimated Time: 39 hours (again, not including rest stops)

Using the same car and gas prices as before:

  1. Total gallons needed = 2,700 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 108 gallons
  2. Total gas cost = 108 gallons × $4.50 = $486

Tolls on this route might be a little higher due to additional turns and roadways, averaging around $120. Therefore, for Route 2, the total cost comes to about $606.

Route 3: I-5 S to I-70 E

If you’re seeking a different vibe, consider taking I-5 S before connecting to I-70 E. This route passes through some charming small towns and offers a unique backdrop.

  • Distance: 2,800 miles
  • Estimated Time: 40 hours

Using the same fuel efficiency rates:

  1. Total gallons needed = 2,800 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 112 gallons
  2. Total gas cost = 112 gallons × $4.50 = $504

This route can have varying tolls, but you should budget around $80 for tolls. Hence, the total estimated cost for Route 3 sums up to roughly $584.

Conclusion

Choosing the right route from Des Moines, WA, to Trenton, NJ, can significantly affect your traveling experience, especially regarding costs. Whether you lean toward the straightforward I-80 E option, the picturesque I-90 E, or the charming towns on I-5 and I-70, each route has its unique elements to offer. As you plan your journey, remember to factor in gas prices and possible tolls to ensure you stay on budget. Happy travels!