Road Trip: The Cost of Driving from Carthage, NC to Elgin, TX

Are you planning a road trip from Carthage, North Carolina to Elgin, Texas? Knowing the cost of driving can help you budget your trip. Gas prices can fluctuate and affect your expenses. Below are some popular routes to get to Elgin, so you can choose the route that suits your time, budget, and needs.

Route 1: I-95 South and I-10 West

This route covers a total distance of approximately 1,220 miles. It takes approximately 18 hours and 45 minutes to drive straight through, but you can divide the drive into two days for your comfort. If you're driving from Carthage, NC, take I-95 South until you reach Jacksonville, FL, and then continue on I-10 West until you reach Elgin, TX.

Gas prices along this route vary depending on the state. As of September 2021, the average gas price in Carthage, NC, is $2.95 per gallon, and the price in Elgin, TX, is about $2.79 per gallon. Based on these prices and a standard fuel economy of 25 mpg, you can expect to spend approximately $195 on gas for this trip. Additionally, you'll encounter toll roads, mainly in Texas, and they can cost you an additional $50-$80.

Route 2: I-40 West

If you prefer a shorter route, take I-40 West for a total distance of about 1,070 miles, taking approximately 16 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Take NC-24 West until you merge onto I-40 West towards Tennessee and continue until you reach Elgin, TX.

The average gas price in Knoxville, TN, is $3.06 per gallon, while the price in Elgin, TX, remains unchanged from the previous route. Based on these prices and a standard fuel economy of 25 mpg, you can expect to spend approximately $175 on gas for this trip. You'll also encounter toll roads, mainly in Texas, which can cost an additional $50-$80.

Route 3: I-85 South and I-20 West

This route covers a total distance of approximately 1,170 miles and takes approximately 18 hours and 15 minutes to drive. Take I-85 South until you reach Atlanta, GA, then take I-20 West towards Birmingham, AL, and continue until you reach Elgin, TX.

The average gas price in Atlanta, GA, is $2.99 per gallon, while the price in Elgin, TX, remains about the same as the other routes. Based on these prices and a standard fuel economy of 25 mpg, you can expect to spend approximately $185 on gas for this trip. You'll encounter fewer toll roads on this route, ultimately saving you some money.

In Conclusion

Driving from Carthage, NC, to Elgin, TX, can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its expenses. The cost of gas and tolls can significantly impact your budget, but knowing the prices can help you prepare. By taking any of the above routes, you can budget between $200 and $250 for gas and tolls. Remember to pack snacks, drinks, and entertainment for a comfortable journey. Have a safe trip!