The Cost of a Trip between Carmel, Indiana and Ames, Iowa

If you're planning a road trip from Carmel, Indiana to Ames, Iowa, one of the main factors to consider is the cost of transportation. With fluctuating gas prices and multiple route options, it's essential to research the cost and distance of each route to ensure that you select the most affordable and efficient option. This article will detail the different potential routes and their associated costs, as well as provide a recommendation for the best route.

Route Options

Route 1: Via I-74 W and I-80 W

The first possible route to consider is via I-74 W and I-80 W. The distance between Carmel and Ames is approximately 434 miles, and this route will take around seven hours to drive without any stops.

The estimated fuel cost for this route is $56.36 for a car with an average gas mileage of 25 mpg. It's essential to note that this cost is based on a gas price of $2.89 per gallon, which is the US average as of May 2021.

Route 2: Via I-65 S and I-80 W

The second possible route to consider is via I-65 S and I-80 W. This route is slightly longer than the previous option, with a distance of around 497 miles. However, it's estimated to take a similar amount of time, roughly seven hours, to complete the journey.

The estimated fuel cost for this route is $64.29 for a car with an average gas mileage of 25 mpg. Again, this cost is based on the same gas price of $2.89 per gallon.

Route 3: Via I-74 W and US-52 N

The third potential route is via I-74 W and US-52 N. This route is the shortest distance to travel, with a total mileage of around 424 miles. However, it is estimated to take an additional half-hour to complete the journey compared to the first route, with a total travel time of seven and a half hours.

The estimated fuel cost for this route is $54.78 for a car with an average gas mileage of 25 mpg. Like the previous routes, this cost is based on the US national average gas price of $2.89 per gallon.

Route 4: Via I-57 S and I-80 W

The fourth potential route is via I-57 S and I-80 W. This route is the longest of the four, with a total distance of around 546 miles. However, it is also the quickest to travel, with an estimated time of approximately six and a half hours.

The estimated fuel cost for this route is $70.71 for a car with an average gas mileage of 25 mpg. Again, the cost is based on a gas price of $2.89 per gallon.

Best Route

After considering all four possible routes in terms of distance, time, and cost, the most favorable option is Route 1 via I-74 W and I-80 W. It has both a reasonable travel time and a reasonable fuel cost, making it the most cost-effective option for this trip. While Route 3 is the shortest distance, it is only a 10-mile difference compared to Route 1, and the estimated travel time is half an hour longer. Therefore, Route 1 is the best option in terms of both cost and time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the perfect option for a road trip from Carmel, Indiana to Ames, Iowa, based on current gas prices, is Route 1 via I-74 W and I-80 W. While it is not the shortest or the longest distance to travel, it provides a relatively low fuel cost and a reasonable time frame for the journey. So, if you're planning a trip between these locations, Route 1 is the optimal choice. Safe travels!