The Cost of a Road Trip From Brooklyn Center to Coon Rapids: Saving Money on Gas
If you live in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota and need to travel to Coon Rapids, Minnesota, you might be wondering how much you should budget for a road trip. Gas prices can be a major factor in your trip’s cost, and the mileage you can get from your vehicle will also help you determine how many gallons of gas you will need. Let's explore the possible routes and their costs, and figure out how to save money on gas.
The Route Options
Option 1: Via US-10 West
The first route option is to take US-10 West from Brooklyn Center to Coon Rapids. This route is a straight shot from one city to the other, with a total distance of approximately 7.1 miles. However, the downside to this route is that you will likely encounter a lot of traffic during rush hour, as it is a major thoroughfare used by many commuters.
The estimated cost of this trip is around $1.10, assuming gas prices of $2.50 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). While this route is the shortest, it may not be the fastest if you are traveling during peak hours.
Option 2: Via US-169 North
Another option to get from Brooklyn Center to Coon Rapids is to take US-169 North. This route will take you through the scenic Mississippi River, and you will also have a chance to stop by the Elm Creek Park Reserve. The total distance of this route is approximately 9.4 miles, but again, this route may not be the fastest during peak traffic hours.
The estimated cost of this trip is around $1.50, assuming gas prices of $2.50 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 MPG. The scenic views and potential detours may make this route more appealing for some drivers.
Option 3: Via MN-252 North
Finally, an alternative route from Brooklyn Center to Coon Rapids is to take MN-252 North. This route is slightly longer than the US-10 route, with a total distance of approximately 8.2 miles. However, it is less busy, and may be a faster option depending on the time of day.
The estimated cost of this trip is around $1.30, assuming gas prices of $2.50 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 MPG. While this route may not be as scenic as the US-169 route, it could still be a good option for someone in a hurry.
Tips for Saving Money on Gas
No matter which route you choose, there are ways to save money on gas during your road trip. Here are some tips to consider:
Use a gas price app: There are apps like GasBuddy that can help you find the cheapest gas station nearby. Prices can differ by as much as 20 cents per gallon from one gas station to another, so it can be worth it to drive a bit further if you can save a significant amount on gas.
Avoid unnecessary weight: The more weight your car carries, the harder it has to work and the more gas it will use. Before you head on your road trip, make sure to remove any excess weight from your car, such as bikes or kayaks that you won’t be using during your trip.
Maintain your car: Keeping your car in good condition can also help you save money on gas. Make sure to keep your tires properly inflated, get regular oil changes, and get repairs done as soon as possible if you notice anything wrong with your car.
The Best Route
Based on distance and estimated cost, the best route from Brooklyn Center to Coon Rapids is likely the US-10 West route. While it may be the shortest of the three routes, it’s important to keep in mind that it may not be the fastest, especially during peak traffic hours. You can always consider the other routes if you don’t mind the extra distance or are willing to make some detours to see some scenic landmarks.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the cost of a road trip from Brooklyn Center to Coon Rapids depends on many factors, such as gas prices, your vehicle’s fuel economy, and your route. By using a gas price app, avoiding unnecessary weight, and maintaining your car, you can help save money on gas during your trip. The US-10 West route is likely the best if you are looking for the shortest distance and the lowest cost. If you have a bit more time to spare and are looking for a more scenic drive, the other two routes may also be worth considering. Regardless of which route you choose, have a safe and enjoyable trip!