Driving from Baton Rouge to Brandon: How Much Will It Cost Based on Current Gas Prices?

Are you planning a road trip from Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Brandon, Florida? While road trips can be exciting, it's important to factor in the cost of gas, tolls, and other expenses. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of driving from Baton Rouge to Brandon based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-10 E and I-75 S

The first route we'll highlight is driving on I-10 E and I-75 S all the way to Brandon. This route covers a distance of 713 miles and takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. Based on current gas prices in Baton Rouge, which are around $2.40 per gallon, and averaging 25 miles to the gallon, it will cost you around $86 for gas.

Now, let's add in the cost of tolls. You'll encounter tolls on this route when you cross the Florida state line, which will run you about $3.50 each way. Finally, if you’re looking for a spot to rest a night, a hotel room will cost you around $150 if you don’t find anything else cheaper.

Overall, driving on I-10 E and I-75 S will cost you approximately $185 in gas and tolls, excluding other expenses.

Route 2: US-90 E and I-75 S

If you're looking to avoid tolls and take a more scenic route, you can drive on US-90 E and I-75 S instead. This route covers a distance of 670 miles and takes approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes. Gas prices are the same, so it will cost you around $77 for gas.

However, because you're avoiding tolls, you'll save around $7 each way. So the total cost in gas is $77. You might want to book a hotel by reading reviews and look for hotels offering discounts so that you could save some bucks.

Overall, driving on US-90 E and I-75 S will cost you approximately $154 in gas, excluding other expenses.

Route 3: I-10 E, I-295 S, and I-95 S

The third and last route we’ll discuss is I-10 E, then I-295 S along the coast, and finally I-95 S. This is the longest route, covering a distance of 765 miles and taking approximately 13 hours. With gas prices in Baton Rouge around $2.40 per gallon and averaging 25 miles to the gallon, it will cost you around $90 for gas.

However, you'll encounter tolls on this route, particularly when crossing the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. With tolls on the I-295 East Beltway cost around $1.50 each way, and crossing the st. Johns River will cost you approximately $1.25. So, you'll be spending $3.25 on tolls each way.

Thus, driving on I-10 E, I-295 S, and I-95 S will cost you approximately $178 in gas and tolls, excluding other expenses.

Final Thoughts

Which route is the most cost-effective will depend on your priorities. If you're looking for the cheapest option, then taking Route 2, which involves US-90 E and I-75 S, will save you around $30 when compared to Route 1. However, Route 3, though the longest, also offers scenic views and breaks the otherwise monotonous ride between BR and Brandon.

Remember, driving from Baton Rouge to Brandon is not just about gas and toll costs; there are additional expenses such as food, lodging, and potential car maintenance needs. Take into account all these factors to make sure you budget accordingly. So, have a safe trip and enjoy the journey!