Driving Cost from Burlington, Vermont to Mitchell, South Dakota

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Burlington to Mitchell: A Detailed Guide

If you're planning a road trip from Burlington, Vermont to Mitchell, South Dakota, you're in for an exciting adventure filled with scenic vistas, quaint towns, and rugged landscapes. But before you hit the open road, it's important to budget for the cost of the trip. Gas prices can fluctuate and impact your overall expenses, so it's important to plan ahead. In this guide, we'll break down the cost of the trip between Burlington and Mitchell and explore the different routes you can take to get there.

Route Options

The most direct route from Burlington to Mitchell is via Interstate 90, which takes you through New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and finally South Dakota. Depending on your starting point and pit stops along the way, the total distance may vary but generally sits at around 1,240 miles.

Another option is to take a slightly longer but more scenic route through the Great Lakes region, crossing into Canada and back into the US before reaching South Dakota. This route takes you through New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Ontario, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Dakota, totaling around 1,365 miles.

Gas Prices

Gas prices fluctuate and vary by region, but as of August 2021, the average gas price in the US was around $3.13 per gallon. To estimate the total gas cost for your trip, you can use a fuel calculator that takes into account the distance of the route and the current gas prices.

Based on the standard mileage of a car (25 mpg), the cost of gas per mile (0.12 cents), and the total distance of the trip (around 1,240 miles), the estimated gas cost for the first route (via Interstate 90) would be around $186.

For the longer route that crosses into Canada, the distance is slightly longer at around 1,365 miles, and the estimated gas cost would be around $200. However, keep in mind that crossing into Canada requires additional paperwork, such as a passport and insurance, that may add extra expenses to your trip.

Additional Expenses

Gas is likely to be one of your biggest expenses on this road trip, but there are other costs to factor in as well. These may include:

  • Lodging: Depending on your travel style, you may need to book hotel rooms or Airbnb stays along the way. The average nightly rate for a hotel in the US is around $115, but prices can vary significantly by location and season.
  • Food and drinks: You'll need to budget for meals and snacks along the way. Keep in mind that eating out at restaurants can add up quickly, so consider packing your own food for some of the meals or opting for more affordable fast food options.
  • Road tolls: Some routes, particularly those that cross into Canada, may have tolls that you'll need to pay. Make sure to factor these into your budget.
  • Activities and attractions: If you plan on stopping at tourist attractions or taking part in outdoor activities, such as hiking or kayaking, make sure to budget for these additional expenses as well.

Best Route

Ultimately, the best route for your Burlington to Mitchell road trip will depend on your preferences and travel style. The route via Interstate 90 is the most direct and likely the quickest. This route also passes through major cities such as Buffalo, Cleveland, and Chicago, offering plenty of opportunities for stops and attractions.

The longer route that crosses into Canada is ideal for those who want to take in scenic views and explore the Great Lakes region. This route takes you through cities such as Detroit, Toronto, and Thunder Bay, offering a unique mix of American and Canadian cultures.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of a road trip from Burlington to Mitchell will depend on various factors, including your travel style, route choice, and current gas prices. To estimate the cost of your trip accurately, factor in expenses such as gas, lodging, food, tolls, and activities. While the quickest route via Interstate 90 may be the most direct, the longer route that crosses into Canada offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and scenic vistas. Whichever route you choose, make sure to budget appropriately and enjoy the journey.