The Cost of a Trip Between Brookings and Eugene Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Brookings, Oregon to Eugene, Oregon can be an adventure in itself. It's an opportunity to enjoy the landscapes that the state has to offer. However, before setting out, it's important to know the different routes available, the cost of each one, and which route to take. In this article, we will look at these different aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Route Options
There are about three route options available for those driving from Brookings to Eugene. These are:
- Taking I-5 North
- Taking US-101 North and OR-126 East
- Taking OR-38 East and OR-126 West
The route you choose can impact the cost of your trip, as each road has different distances, speed limits, and charactiristics. Let's look at each of these routes in detail:
I-5 North
This is the shortest route available, and thus seems like the best option. It has a distance of approximately 199.5 miles and a driving time of about 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, taking this route means that you'll miss out on the scenic views that the other two routes offer.
It also has the advantage of having more fuel and food stations along the way since it's a major highway. Thus, you're less likely to get stranded or run out of gas. It's also the fastest route, meaning that you'll use less gas. You will also save on other costs since it's the shortest route.
US-101 North and OR-126 East
This route spans about 275 miles and will take you on an adventure through the coast. It offers a scenic view of the Pacific Ocean, redwood forests and grassy farm fields, among other landscapes. It has a driving time of about 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
This route is best for longer trips since you'll need to make several stops along the way due to the scarcity of gas and rest stations. The route is winding and steep, meaning that you'll need more gas to navigate through the hills and mountains. Heavy traffic during the summer months can also slow you down and use more gas.
OR-38 East and OR-126 West
This route is about 240 miles long and winds through scenic Rogue River and Umpqua National Forests. You'll also pass by popular Oregon landmarks such as Crater Lake National Park. It has a driving time of about 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Unlike the US-101 North and OR-126 East route, this road is less winding and has a gradual incline. Thus, you'll use less gas. Roadside amenities are few, just like the US-101 North and OR-126 East route, so plan your stops well to avoid running out of gas.
The Cost of a Trip Between Brookings and Eugene Based on Current Gas Prices
The cost of a trip between Brookings and Eugene is dependent on a few factors. These include the following:
- Distance
- Gas prices
- Type of car
- Traffic conditions
- Route
Gas prices vary from one state to another and can change frequently. For instance, according to GasBuddy, as of August 2021, gas prices in Oregon averaged about $3.80 per gallon. Prices may also vary within the same state and could go as high as $4 per gallon.
The type of car you use is another factor that will impact the cost of the trip. Older cars tend to have lower fuel economy, while newer cars have better fuel economy. The size of the car also matters, as larger cars will use more gas compared to smaller ones.
Traffic conditions also play a role in determining the cost of the trip. If you encounter heavy traffic, you'll likely spend more time on the road, using more gas.
Given these variables, let's take a closer look at the estimated cost of each of the routes mentioned above:
I-5 North
Using a car that has an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and an average gas price of $3.80 per gallon, this route would cost approximately $29.15 in gas alone. This cost does not factor in roadside stops such as food or rest stations.
US-101 North and OR-126 East
This route has a distance of 275 miles, with winding and hilly roads. Using a car with an average fuel economy of 20 mpg, and an average gas price of $3.80 per gallon, this route would cost approximately $57.50 in gas alone. This cost does not factor in roadside stops such as food or rest stations.
OR-38 East and OR-126 West
This route is about 240 miles long and takes a longer time to complete compared to the other routes. However, it's the most scenic one and doesn't have the steep inclines that US-101 North and OR-126 East has. Using a car with an average fuel economy of 20 mpg and an average gas price of $3.80 per gallon, this route would cost approximately $52 in gas alone. This cost does not factor in roadside stops such as food or rest stations.
Choosing the Best Route
Choosing the best route to take between Brookings and Eugene can depend on varied factors. These could be the level of traffic, comfort, convenience, food and gas stations available along the way, and of course, cost. It's all about balancing these factors to determine the most suitable route.
Based on the cost considerations alone, taking the I-5 North is the most economic route. It has a shorter distance, fewer landscape features, but more fuel and food stations along the way. This makes it convenient and cheaper. It is also the most direct route and saves you time.
However, if you're up for an adventure and a scenic drive, either of the other two routes is great. They offer a mix of mountains, ocean, forests, and rivers. It's a chance to see the beauty that Oregon has to offer.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of a trip between Brookings and Eugene can vary based on several factors such as the distance, gas prices, traffic, and the type of car used. It's important to choose the right route based on these factors. I-5 North is the most economic route that saves both time and money. However, if you are up to the scenic drive and have enough time at your disposal, going for US-101 North and OR-126 East or OR-38 East and OR-126 West is a great adventure that allows for breathtaking nature views.