Driving Cost from Des Peres, Missouri to Collinsville, Illinois

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Cost of a Trip Between Des Peres, Missouri and Collinsville, Illinois: Navigating Routes and Gas Prices

Planning a trip can be an exciting venture, but understanding the costs involved—especially when it comes to gas—can help you manage your budget effectively. If you're starting your journey from Des Peres, Missouri, and heading to Collinsville, Illinois, several routes are available, each with varying distances and associated travel costs. This article will explore these routes, the current gas prices, and which option may be the most economical.

Understanding Gas Prices

Before diving into specific routes, it's essential to consider the current gas prices in both Missouri and Illinois. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Missouri is approximately $3.50 per gallon, while in Illinois, it hovers around $4.00 per gallon. Given these values, it’s essential to calculate the cost of gas based on the efficiency of your vehicle, whether driving a compact car that averages 30 miles per gallon, a midsize SUV averaging 20 miles per gallon, or a larger vehicle at 15 miles per gallon.

Estimating Gas Cost

To estimate the gas cost for the trip, we need to calculate the distance of each route and apply the gas prices to determine the total cost.

Route Options from Des Peres, Missouri to Collinsville, Illinois

Route 1: Via I-64 East (the most direct route)

  1. Distance: Approximately 20 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 25-30 minutes
  3. Directions:
    • Start on I-270 N from Des Peres.
    • Continue on I-64 E, taking the exit toward Collinsville.
    • Follow I-64 E directly into Collinsville.

Fuel Cost Calculation

  • For a compact car (30 MPG):
    Gas needed = 20 miles / 30 MPG = 0.67 gallons
    Cost = 0.67 gallons * $3.50 = $2.35

  • For a midsize SUV (20 MPG):
    Gas needed = 20 miles / 20 MPG = 1.00 gallons
    Cost = 1.00 gallon * $3.50 = $3.50

  • For a larger vehicle (15 MPG):
    Gas needed = 20 miles / 15 MPG = 1.33 gallons
    Cost = 1.33 gallons * $3.50 = $4.66

Route 2: Via US-40 East and I-70 East

  1. Distance: Approximately 24 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 30-35 minutes
  3. Directions:
    • Take US-40 E (also known as Manchester Rd).
    • Follow the signs to I-70 E.
    • Merge onto I-64 E heading into Collinsville.

Fuel Cost Calculation

  • For a compact car (30 MPG):
    Gas needed = 24 miles / 30 MPG = 0.80 gallons
    Cost = 0.80 gallons * $3.50 = $2.80

  • For a midsize SUV (20 MPG):
    Gas needed = 24 miles / 20 MPG = 1.20 gallons
    Cost = 1.20 gallons * $3.50 = $4.20

  • For a larger vehicle (15 MPG):
    Gas needed = 24 miles / 15 MPG = 1.6 gallons
    Cost = 1.60 gallons * $3.50 = $5.60

Route 3: Via I-270 N and I-70 E (Scenic Route)

  1. Distance: Approximately 30 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 35-45 minutes
  3. Directions:
    • Start on I-270 N from Des Peres.
    • Continue on I-70 E, then merge back onto I-64 E toward Collinsville.

Fuel Cost Calculation

  • For a compact car (30 MPG):
    Gas needed = 30 miles / 30 MPG = 1.00 gallon
    Cost = 1.00 gallon * $3.50 = $3.50

  • For a midsize SUV (20 MPG):
    Gas needed = 30 miles / 20 MPG = 1.50 gallons
    Cost = 1.50 gallons * $3.50 = $5.25

  • For a larger vehicle (15 MPG):
    Gas needed = 30 miles / 15 MPG = 2.00 gallons
    Cost = 2.00 gallons * $3.50 = $7.00

Summary of Costs for Each Route

Route Distance Approx. Time Compact Car Cost Midsize SUV Cost Large Vehicle Cost
Route 1 20 miles 25-30 mins $2.35 $3.50 $4.66
Route 2 24 miles 30-35 mins $2.80 $4.20 $5.60
Route 3 30 miles 35-45 mins $3.50 $5.25 $7.00

Recommendations

Considering both distance and cost, Route 1 via I-64 E stands out as the most economical option for travelers from Des Peres to Collinsville. Not only does this route cover the shortest distance at 20 miles, but it also offers the best fuel efficiency when factoring in the various vehicle types. With an estimated driving time of 25-30 minutes, it makes a quick and budget-friendly choice for drivers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a trip from Des Peres, Missouri to Collinsville, Illinois, can be both enjoyable and easy on your wallet. Opting for the most efficient Route 1, you will travel approximately 20 miles in about 25-30 minutes, spending anywhere from $2.35 to $4.66 on gas, depending on your vehicle type. Overall, this choice maximizes both time and fuel savings, making your trip an excellent decision. Safe travels!