Driving Cost from Carrollton, Texas to San Antonio, Texas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Carrollton and San Antonio: Navigating Gas Prices

Are you itching for a road trip from Carrollton to San Antonio, but reluctant to do so because of the fuel expenses? Worry no more, because this guide will break down the costs, routes, and other considerations to ensure your trip is not only affordable but also enjoyable.

The Distance

First, let's look into the distance between the two cities. Carrollton is located in the northern part of Texas, while San Antonio is approximately 270 miles south. The trip's distance alone warrants careful planning, especially if you're not used to driving long distances.

The Possible Routes

Several routes can be taken from Carrollton to San Antonio, but we will narrow it down to three popular ones.

Route 1: I-35 S

The first route option is to take I-35 S, also known as the major interstate highway running from Laredo to Duluth, Minnesota. The trip comprises approximately 290 miles and takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes with little traffic. However, the biggest downside to this route is that it's notoriously busy, which can increase the trip duration. Additionally, the toll fees could amount to a significant cost, so be ready to make adequate budgeting arrangements.

Route 2: TX-130 S and I-10 W

If you're looking to bypass the traffic and want a faster route, taking TX-130 S and I-10 W could be the answer. The distance is slightly longer, covering 340 miles, but it's estimated to take around 4 hours and 45 minutes. The journey on TX-130 S is a toll road, but it's less congested than I-35 S. Afterward, linking up with I-10 W makes the remaining trip smooth. The downside is that you could miss fantastic scenery along the way, considering this route is a more straightforward path.

Route 3: TX-16 S and I-10 W

Finally, if you are looking for a road adventure, you can use Route 3, which entails taking TX-16 S and I-10 W. The distance may cover only 296 miles, but it takes approximately seven hours. While the hours may seem long, the scenery on this route is breathtaking, and you get to pass through hill country. However, you can expect to make more stops due to the windy paths, which could mean spending more on food, drinks, and fuel.

The Cost

Now that we have looked at the possible routes, let's dive into the cost implications.

Fuel

Fuel expenses constitute a significant portion of the cost of a road trip, so it's vital to have a rough estimate of what to expect. For this analysis, we will assume an average car fuel efficiency of 24 miles per gallon (mpg) and a gas price of $2.15 per gallon, based on the current gas prices (as of July 2021).

  • Route 1: If you take I-35 S, which is approximately 290 miles roundtrip, you can expect to use around 12 gallons of fuel. Hence, the fuel cost will be around $26.
  • Route 2: For TX-130 S and I-10 W, covering about 340 miles roundtrip, you will use approximately 14.2 gallons of fuel, which will amount to approximately $30.5.
  • Route 3: Finally, on TX-16 S and I-20 W, you will cover a distance of approximately 296 miles roundtrip, which will require around 12.3 gallons of fuel. Hence, the fuel cost will be approximately $26.4.

Tolls

If you opt for Route 1, you will encounter toll booths along the way. The total cost of tolls will depend on the time of day, so be sure to check toll rates before embarking on your trip. Currently, the average toll price is about $1.07 per mile. Still, these prices may fluctuate depending on the time of day and other factors, so it's best to have a contingency fund just in case there's traffic or other factors that may cause delays.

Other Considerations

Apart from fuel and toll fees, there are other costs to consider before setting out. For instance, it's essential to budget for snacks, drinks, and road trip games to make the journey more enjoyable. In addition, if you're traveling alone, it's wise to budget for an overnight stay or two to avoid driving while exhausted.

The Best Route

From the analysis above, the best route depends on your preference, time, and budget. Here's a quick summary to guide you:

  • Route 1 is great if you don't mind paying toll fees and want to get to San Antonio quicker, although be prepared for traffic.
  • Route 2 is good if you want to avoid traffic and don't mind paying higher fuel and toll fees.
  • Route 3 is perfect if you're looking for an adventure, have more time, and are prepared to make more pit stops.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip from Carrollton to San Antonio is a lovely journey that offers scenic views and adventure. The best route depends on your budget, travel time, and preference. Regardless of the route you choose, adequate planning will ensure a fun and affordable trip that will create lasting memories. Overall, plan carefully, enjoy the ride, and stay safe!