Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Woodridge, Illinois

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Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip: Des Plaines to Woodridge, Illinois

Planning a road trip from Des Plaines, Illinois to Woodridge, Illinois? Understanding the cost of your journey can help you budget better and enjoy your trip to the fullest. This article delves into the various routes you can take, discussing their distances, estimated driving times, and the impact of current gas prices on your travel expenses.

Current Gas Prices

Before calculating the overall cost of your trip, it is beneficial to know the current fuel prices in Illinois. As of October 2023, gas prices in the state average around $3.80 per gallon. Though these prices may fluctuate, using this figure can provide an accurate estimation of your travel expenses.

Route Options and Their Costs

When traveling from Des Plaines to Woodridge, several routes are available. Each route varies in distance, estimated time, and fuel costs.

Route 1: I-90 W and I-355 S

  • Distance: Approximately 37 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 40 minutes
  • Cost Calculation (assuming average fuel efficiency):
    • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas Needed: 37 miles / 25 mpg = 1.48 gallons
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.48 gallons x $3.80 = $5.62

The first option involves taking the I-90 W and I-355 S. This route is the fastest and most direct, allowing you to bypass heavy traffic often found in local city streets. Expect smooth driving conditions most of the time, but do remain alert for traffic reports, especially during peak hours.

Route 2: I-294 S

  • Distance: Approximately 40 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 45 minutes
  • Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas Needed: 40 miles / 25 mpg = 1.6 gallons
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.6 gallons x $3.80 = $6.08

Choosing I-294 S offers a slightly longer distance and travel time but could prove beneficial during heavy congestion on I-90. This route is a toll road, so you will need to factor in those expenses, which can add an additional $2–$5 depending on the time of day and entrance/exit points.

Route 3: US-12 E / US-45 S

  • Distance: Approximately 35 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 50 minutes
  • Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas Needed: 35 miles / 25 mpg = 1.4 gallons
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.4 gallons x $3.80 = $5.32

The US-12 E / US-45 S route provides a scenic alternative often favored for its beautiful landscapes and lesser traffic congestion. Despite this, prepare for a few traffic lights along the way, impacting the overall driving time.

Route 4: I-55 N

  • Distance: Approximately 44 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 55 minutes
  • Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Gas Needed: 44 miles / 25 mpg = 1.76 gallons
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.76 gallons x $3.80 = $6.69

The I-55 N route serves as an alternative path but may involve heavier traffic, particularly around the junctions of I-55 and I-90. This route is not often recommended unless other routes face significant delays.

After considering all options, I recommend taking the I-90 W and I-355 S route for its optimal blend of convenience and efficiency. Not only does it present the shortest distance (37 miles), but it also provides the quickest driving time (around 40 minutes). Despite the potential for congestion, recent improvements in the highway infrastructure benefit consistent traffic flow.

Total Estimated Costs

  • Route 1 (I-90 W and I-355 S): $5.62
  • Route 2 (I-294 S): $6.08 (additional tolls not included)
  • Route 3 (US-12 E / US-45 S): $5.32
  • Route 4 (I-55 N): $6.69

Thus, your trip will likely cost between $5.32 to $6.69, depending on your chosen route and driving conditions. If you appreciate scenic drives and are not pressed for time, opting for the US-12 E or US-45 S could enhance your travel experience.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, your road trip from Des Plaines to Woodridge, Illinois, will be both cost-effective and enjoyable, particularly if you select the I-90 W and I-355 S route. This option reduces mileage while keeping driving time to a minimum, leading to an overall cost of approximately $5.62. Depending on current traffic conditions, this trip should take around 40 minutes. Enjoy the trip and safe travels!