The Cost of a Road Trip between Carlsbad, New Mexico, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Traveling from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, can be a thrilling experience, but it comes with a cost. The cost of a road trip will differ based on the route and transportation mode you choose. Currently, gas prices have been on the rise across the United States, which means the cost of the trip could be higher than expected. This guide will help you plan your road trip by breaking down the different routes available, their costs, and distances. It will also highlight the best route to take.

The Different Routes and Their Costs

Route 1: Via US-62 E

One of the popular routes from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is via US-62 E. The journey is approximately 509 miles, and it takes about eight hours and 30 minutes to complete. This route will take you through scenic landscapes, including the Black Mesa Nature Preserve in Oklahoma.

The cost of using this route will be determined primarily by the mode of transport you use and the current gas prices. Assuming that the current gas price is $3.00 per gallon, the cost using this route is estimated to be around $110 for gas alone. This calculation is based on taking a car that has a gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a fuel tank capacity of 12 gallons. Don't forget to factor in toll fees and any other vehicle expenses like maintenance.

Route 2: Via US-70 E

The second route that can take you from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is via US-70 E. This route is approximately 553 miles and takes about nine hours to complete. It is a convenient route for those who want to take a detour through the beautiful Lake Thunderbird State Park in Oklahoma.

The cost of using this route is similar to the first route. Using a car with a gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a fuel tank capacity of 12 gallons, it will cost you around $126 for gas alone, based on the current gas price of $3.00 per gallon. Additionally, there may be toll fees, parking fees, and maintenance charges you might have to consider.

Route 3: Via I-40 E

The third route is the most common and the fastest way to reach Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, from Carlsbad, New Mexico. This route takes you through I-40 E, which covers a total distance of approximately 620 miles and takes around ten hours to complete. It is suitable for travelers who want to see some of America's most beautiful landscapes, including the strange yet picturesque Cadillac Ranch in Texas.

The cost of taking this route, assuming a gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a fuel tank capacity of 12 gallons, will cost roughly $168 for gas alone, considering the current gas price of $3.00 per gallon. Toll, parking, and maintenance fees should also be factored in.

The Recommended Route

The recommended route to take from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is via Route 1. It is the shortest route with a total distance of approximately 509 miles and takes about eight hours and thirty minutes. This route is also the cheapest, considering the cost of gas required to complete the journey.

Conclusion

Traveling from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is a great adventure, but it comes at a price. The cost of a road trip will depend on the route you choose and the current gas prices in the United States. While Route 1, via US-62 E, is the shortest and most affordable, other optional routes can cover more significant distances at higher prices. It is also worth considering other transportation modes, such as public transport or flights, if you want to reduce your expenditure. Ultimately, the most important thing is to plan well and enjoy every moment of your trip.