How Much Will it Cost to Drive from Barstow to San Luis Obispo?

Heading up the coast from Barstow to San Luis Obispo is a fantastic road trip. With miles of beautiful California coastline, picturesque towns, and charming restaurants, you'll want to make sure you budget appropriately for your trip. Here's a breakdown of the different routes you can take and the associated costs:

Route 1: Taking the Scenic Route

If you have plenty of time, taking the scenic route is an excellent option. You'll travel along the Pacific Coast Highway, enjoying stunning views of the ocean along the way. The total distance is approximately 275 miles, which will take you around 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Gasoline prices along the way are quite high, with the average cost hovering around $4 per gallon. With a car that gets an average of 25 miles to the gallon, you'll be looking at a total spend of around $44 on gas. There are no tolls on this route.

Distance: 275 miles

Time: 5 hours and 15 minutes

Cost: $44

Route 2: The Express Route

If you're short on time, taking the express route is an excellent choice. The total distance is slightly less, at around 235 miles, which will take you around 3 hours and 45 minutes. This route takes you on the 5 freeway for most of the journey, allowing you to travel at a faster pace.

Gas prices are lower on this route, averaging around $3.80 per gallon. With a car that gets an average of 25 miles to the gallon, you'll be looking at a total spend of around $34 on gas. You'll also have to pay a toll of $6.75 when you cross the Golden Gate Bridge.

Distance: 235 miles

Time: 3 hours and 45 minutes

Cost: $40.75

Route 3: The Free Route

If you're looking to save some money, taking the free route is an excellent choice. The total distance is slightly longer at around 280 miles, which will take you around 5 hours and 30 minutes. This route takes you on the 101 freeway for most of the journey, allowing you to avoid tolls.

Gas prices are slightly higher on this route, averaging around $4 per gallon. With a car that gets an average of 25 miles to the gallon, you'll be looking at a total spend of around $45 on gas. There are no tolls on this route.

Distance: 280 miles

Time: 5 hours and 30 minutes

Cost: $45

Driving from Barstow to San Luis Obispo can be a fun and affordable way to see some of the most incredible views California has to offer. Whether you take the scenic route, the express route, or the free route, you'll want to make sure you budget appropriately. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road!