Driving Time between Calabash, North Carolina and New Orleans, Louisiana

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Planning a Road Trip: Driving from Calabash, NC to New Orleans, LA

Are you planning a road trip from Calabash, North Carolina to New Orleans, Louisiana? Maybe you want to soak up some southern charm or catch a jazz concert in the Big Easy. Whatever your reason, it's important to know the best routes to take and how long it will take to get there. In this post, we'll explore the various driving routes, distances, and estimated travel times to make your journey as seamless as possible.

Fastest Route: I-20 W

The fastest route from Calabash to New Orleans is via I-20 W. This route takes you through Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi before arriving in Louisiana. The distance is approximately 870 miles and the driving time is around 13-14 hours, depending on traffic patterns. At peak traffic times, expect the trip to take closer to 15 hours, while low traffic times can shave an hour off the total journey.

Scenic Route: US-90 W

If you want to take a more scenic route, consider taking US-90 W. This route takes you along the Gulf coastline with stunning views of the water. It's slightly longer than I-20 W, with a distance of approximately 960 miles. The driving time is around 15-16 hours, depending on traffic patterns. At peak traffic times, expect the trip to take closer to 17 hours, while low traffic times can shave an hour or two off the total journey.

Shortest Route: I-85 S and I-65 S

If you're looking for the shortest driving distance, consider taking I-85 S and I-65 S. This route takes you through South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama before arriving in Louisiana. The distance is approximately 805 miles and the driving time is around 12-13 hours, depending on traffic patterns. At peak traffic times, expect the trip to take closer to 14 hours, while low traffic times can shave an hour off the total journey.

Avoiding Traffic: Plan Your Trip

If your main concern is avoiding traffic, plan your trip wisely. Rush hour times vary depending on the city and time of day. It's best to avoid major cities during peak traffic times, especially during weekdays. The earlier you start your journey, the better. Consider starting before sunrise to avoid morning rush hour traffic. Another option is to plan your trip during off-peak travel times, such as over the weekend, to avoid heavy traffic.

Tips for a Seamless Road Trip

Regardless of which route you choose, make your road trip as seamless as possible by doing the following:

  • Plan your route in advance
  • Check traffic patterns online before you leave
  • Pack snacks and drinks for the trip
  • Bring a GPS or map in case of detours
  • Take rest stops along the way to stretch your legs and avoid fatigue

With these tips and our route recommendations, your road trip from Calabash to New Orleans should be a breeze. Safe travels!