Driving Cost from Carbondale, Illinois to Joliet, Illinois

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The Cost of Driving from Carbondale to Joliet

When it comes to road trips, one of the biggest considerations is the cost. So, if you're planning a road trip from Carbondale, Illinois to Joliet, Illinois and you're wondering how much it will all cost, this blog post is for you!

Route 1: The Interstate Route

The most direct route from Carbondale to Joliet is via I-57 N and I-80 E. It covers a distance of 284 miles and would take approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Traveling on this route, you'll have to pay for tolls, which will add to your total trip cost. Currently, the cost of a one-way toll on I-94 E is $10.80. The cost of gas (assuming an average of $2.91 per gallon) for this route would be approximately $45.66 for a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're not in a hurry, you can also take the scenic route. This route takes you through the Shawnee National Forest and is a longer distance, covering 315 miles. However, it's also the perfect route for those looking to break up their trip and enjoy some beautiful roadside scenery. This route would take approximately 5 hours. The cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $50.40 for a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon. There are no tolls on this route.

Route 3: The Hybrid Route

A third option to consider is to take the best of both worlds by starting with the scenic route and ending with the interstate route. This route covers a distance of 296 miles and would take approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes. You'll still get to enjoy beautiful sights and skip the tolls for the first half of the trip, while saving time and avoiding more winding roads for the second half. The cost of a one-way toll on I-94 E is $10.80, and the cost of gas (assuming an average of $2.91 per gallon) for this route would be approximately $47.36.

Conclusion

When planning a road trip, it's essential to consider all factors, including the cost of gas, tolls, and the time it takes to get from one destination to another. Taking time to plan ahead will help make sure your adventure is enjoyable and within your budget. On your trip from Carbondale to Joliet, keep in mind these three route options and their costs:

  • Route 1: $56.46 (including tolls and gas), 284 miles, and approximately 4.5 hours
  • Route 2: $50.40 (only gas), 315 miles, and approximately 5 hours
  • Route 3: $58.16 (including tolls and gas), 296 miles, and approximately 4.75 hours