The Cost of Driving From Durham, North Carolina to Tucson, Arizona: An Adventure Worth Taking
Planning a road trip from Durham to Tucson? That’s a fantastic journey that takes you through some beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities! However, before you hit the road, it’s crucial to understand the costs involved, especially when it comes to gas. So, let’s explore a couple of popular routes, their distances, travel times, and estimated costs to help you prepare for your adventure!
Route 1: I-40 W – The Scenic Cross Country Trip
For this route, you'll primarily follow I-40 W, which is the most direct way to get to Tucson.
- Distance: Approximately 1,600 miles
- Time: Roughly 24 hours of driving time
Cost Breakdown
Let’s break down the cost of gasoline. As of now, the average gas price is about $3.50 per gallon. If your vehicle gets around 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 64 gallons to make this trip.
Calculating the gas cost:
- 64 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $224
Additionally, this route is toll-free, so you won’t have any extra toll expenses to worry about!
Total for Route 1
- Total Distance: 1,600 miles
- Total Time: 24 hours
- Total Cost: $224
Route 2: I-85 S and I-10 W – The Southern Scenic Route
If you’re looking to see a bit more of the South, consider taking I-85 S to I-10 W. This route takes you through beautiful landscapes and can be a unique experience.
- Distance: Approximately 1,730 miles
- Time: About 26 hours of driving time
Cost Breakdown
Using the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon and a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll require around 69 gallons for this route.
Calculating the gas cost:
- 69 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $241.50
This route might have some tolls, particularly in areas near major cities. Estimate about $20 for tolls along the way.
Total for Route 2
- Total Distance: 1,730 miles
- Total Time: 26 hours
- Total Cost: $261.50
Route Comparison and Final Thoughts
In summary, here’s how the two routes stack up against each other:
| Route | Distance | Time | Gas Cost | Toll Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-40 W | 1,600 miles | 24 hours | $224 | $0 | $224 |
| I-85 S & I-10 W | 1,730 miles | 26 hours | $241.50 | $20 | $261.50 |
Ultimately, the I-40 W route will save you both time and money, while the I-85 S and I-10 W route offers a unique experience with its own set of scenic views. Regardless of which route you choose, both journeys promise to deliver unforgettable memories along the way. Pack your bags, prepare your playlists, and hit the road for what’s sure to be an incredible adventure from Durham to Tucson! Safe travels!