Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Detroit to Kansas City: An Overview of Routes and Expenses
Planning a road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, can evoke a spirit of adventure while also raising questions about costs. The primary expense to factor in is fuel, which hinges on the current gas prices and the distance of your chosen route. In this article, we will explore the potential routes for your journey, calculating the cost based on average fuel prices, and recommend the best route for efficiency and budget.
Overview of the Trip
The distance between Detroit and Kansas City is approximately 650 miles, depending on the chosen route. On average, a full trip can take around 10 to 12 hours of driving time, not accounting for stops, traffic conditions, or roadwork.
The cost of gas plays a crucial role in determining your road trip budget. As of the current average gas price of $3.50 per gallon (subject to fluctuations), we can compute the fuel expenses for a typical sedan that achieves around 25 miles per gallon.
Here’s a breakdown of the different routes you can take and their respective costs and distances.
Route Options: Direct and Scenic
Route Option 1: I-70 W (The Direct Route)
Distance: Approximately 650 miles
Estimated Time: About 10 hours
Estimated Cost:
[ \text = \frac{650 \text}{25 \text{ miles/gallon}} = 26 \text ]
[ \text = 26 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 91 \text ]
The I-70 W is the most straightforward route, taking you directly from Detroit to Kansas City. This interstate highway runs through various towns, including Toledo, OH, and Indianapolis, IN, making it a convenient choice for minimal navigation hassles.
Route Option 2: I-69 and I-64
Distance: Approximately 675 miles
Estimated Time: About 11 hours
Estimated Cost:
[ \text = \frac{675 \text}{25 \text{ miles/gallon}} = 27 \text ]
[ \text = 27 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 94.50 \text ]
Taking I-69 and then connecting to I-64 offers a slightly longer journey, but it provides the chance to enjoy more picturesque scenery, including rolling hills and historic spots. Key towns along the way, like Fort Wayne, IN, and Evansville, IN, can add to the experience.
Route Option 3: US-40 W and I-70 W
Distance: Approximately 690 miles
Estimated Time: About 12 hours
Estimated Cost:
[ \text = \frac{690 \text}{25 \text{ miles/gallon}} = 27.6 \text ]
[ \text = 27.6 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 96.60 \text ]
This route allows for an enjoyable exploration of small towns and nature along the way. While it extends both the distance and time, the charm of traveling through rural America might make it worth the extra cost.
Additional Costs to Consider
While fuel is the most significant expense, it's wise to consider additional costs that can accumulate during your trip.
Toll Expenses
Some routes may include tolls. For example, taking I-70 W can accumulate toll expenses that may vary widely depending on the specific segments traveled. Budgeting an additional $10 to $20 for tolls is a safe estimate.
Food and Beverages
On a 10 to 12-hour journey, it’s essential to account for meals, snacks, and drinks. Dining stops or quick meals can range significantly in cost, but budgeting around $40 to $75 per person for the trip is reasonable, depending on preferences.
Overnight Stay
If you plan to break the trip into two days or need a rest, consider hotel costs. A mid-range hotel typically costs around $100 to $150 per night.
Best Route Recommendation
Based on total cost, distance, and estimated driving time, the I-70 W route emerges as the best option for your trip from Detroit to Downtown Kansas City. Its practical length, straightforward navigation, and reliability make it the ideal choice for travelers prioritizing efficiency and budget considerations.
Summary of Costs
To sum up, here’s a brief rundown of the expected expenses:
- Fuel Cost: Approximately $91.00
- Toll Costs: Estimated $10 to $20
- Food Costs: $40 to $75 (per person)
- Potential Hotel Costs: $100 to $150 (if needed)
This brings the total trip cost to around $250 to $370 for one person, factoring in food and potential lodging.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Detroit to Downtown Kansas City promises memorable experiences, varied landscapes, and a unique journey through America’s heartland. The I-70 W route, taking around 10 hours and costing approximately $91 in fuel, proves to be the most efficient choice. With adequate planning and budgeting for food and possible lodging, your trip can remain both enjoyable and economical. Enjoy the journey!