Budgeting Your Road Trip: Driving from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Planning a road trip from Downtown Kansas City to Philadelphia can be an exciting adventure! However, before you hit the road, it's essential to understand the costs involved, especially with current gas prices. As of now, let's explore two popular routes, their distances, travel times, and what you can expect to spend on gas and tolls.
Route 1: The Straight Shot via I-70 and I-76
The first route we’ll look at is the straightforward drive along I-70 and I-76. This route takes you through some beautiful Midwestern landscapes and gives you a taste of the urban hustle as you pass through cities like Columbus and Pittsburgh.
- Distance: Approximately 900 miles
- Time: Roughly 13 hours
Now, let's break down the costs. Assuming the average gas price is about $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you will need around 36 gallons of gas for the entire trip.
Gas Cost Calculation:
- Total gas cost: 36 gallons x $3.50 = $126
While you won’t encounter many tolls on this route, there are a few minor fees along the way, bringing the total toll cost to about $50. Therefore, your total cost for this route would be approximately $176.
Route 2: The Scenic Detour via I-70, I-79, and I-80
If you prefer a more scenic route that offers picturesque views and charming towns, consider taking I-70, I-79, and I-80. This route will add some time to your journey but makes for a more enjoyable drive.
- Distance: Roughly 950 miles
- Time: Approximately 14 hours 30 minutes
For gas costs, let’s use the same calculations as before. With the average gas price at $3.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 38 gallons of gas.
Gas Cost Calculation:
- Total gas cost: 38 gallons x $3.50 = $133
This route has a few more tolls, especially through parts of Pennsylvania. Expect to spend around $70 on tolls. Thus, your total estimated cost for this route would come to around $203.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Route Wisely
To wrap things up, both routes have their unique charms and costs.
- On the I-70/I-76 route, you’re looking at a total of approximately $176, with a distance of 900 miles and travel time of about 13 hours.
- In contrast, the I-70/I-79/I-80 route gives you a total cost of about $203, covering 950 miles in approximately 14 hours 30 minutes.
No matter which route you choose, a road trip from Kansas City to Philadelphia promises to be an unforgettable journey! Safe travels, and remember to enjoy the ride!