The Cost of a Road Trip from Cary, North Carolina to Overland Park, Kansas Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to consider the cost implications to ensure a smooth journey. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes from Cary, North Carolina to Overland Park, Kansas, highlighting the cost and distance of each route based on current gas prices. Let's dive into the details and find the most cost-effective and efficient way to reach our destination.

Route Options

Route 1: The Direct Route

The direct route from Cary, North Carolina, to Overland Park, Kansas, covers a distance of approximately 1,000 miles. The most straightforward path would be to take I-40 West towards Greensboro, then continue onto I-85 South towards Charlotte, and finally merge onto I-77 South, which will take you through Virginia, West Virginia, and eventually into Kentucky. From there, you will follow I-64 West into Indiana and Illinois before crossing over into Missouri and finally reaching Overland Park, Kansas.

Cost and Distance

Based on the current national average gas price of $2.75 per gallon, the direct route is estimated to require around 145 gallons of gas for the entire journey. With an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, this translates to a total cost of $398.75 for gas alone.

The distance traveled on the direct route is approximately 1,000 miles, giving you a rough estimate of $0.40 per mile in gas expenses.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time to spare and want to enjoy the picturesque landscapes during your road trip, consider taking the scenic route. This route adds a bit more distance but provides breathtaking views along the way.

To take the scenic route, you would start by following Route 64 West from Cary, North Carolina, until it meets with I-40 in Asheville. From there, continue on I-40 West until reaching Knoxville, Tennessee. Instead of following the direct route through Kentucky, you'll veer onto Route 75/25 West, which will take you through Chattanooga, Tennessee, and then into Nashville. Continue on Route 70 West through Tennessee until reaching St. Louis, Missouri. Finally, take I-70 West, and it will lead you into Overland Park, Kansas.

Cost and Distance

The scenic route adds approximately 200 extra miles to your journey, resulting in a total distance of around 1,200 miles. Considering the same average fuel efficiency and gas price as before, this route will require approximately 160 gallons of gas, costing you approximately $440.

With the additional distance, the scenic route's gas expenses amount to roughly $0.37 per mile.

Route 3: The Quick and Efficient Route

If time is of the essence and you prefer a more direct and efficient route without compromising too much on gas expenses, consider taking this route. This option strikes a balance between time-saving and cost-effectiveness.

Start by following I-40 West from Cary, North Carolina, before veering onto I-75 South in Knoxville, Tennessee. Continue on I-75 South all the way through Chattanooga, Tennessee, and into Atlanta, Georgia. From Atlanta, take I-285 West to bypass the city's heavy traffic, and then merge onto I-85 North, taking you through Alabama and into Montgomery. Finally, merge onto Route 80 West and continue into Mississippi before reaching Mississippi State Line Park. From there, follow Route 82 West to Columbus, Mississippi, where you'll merge onto Route 45 North, leading you straight into Jackson, Tennessee. Finally, merge onto I-40 West in Jackson, Tennessee, and continue until you reach Overland Park, Kansas.

Cost and Distance

The quick and efficient route covers a total distance of approximately 1,100 miles, roughly splitting the difference between the direct and scenic routes. With the given fuel efficiency and gas price, this route will require around 150 gallons of gas, amounting to approximately $413.

In terms of gas expenses, this route averages around $0.38 per mile.

Recommended Route

After considering the various options, the recommended route for a balance of gas expenses and distance is Route 3, the quick and efficient route. This route provides a decent compromise between time-saving and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want to reach Overland Park, Kansas, in a reasonable amount of time without breaking the bank.

Though the direct route may seem enticing due to its simplicity, the extra 100 miles and additional gas expenses make Route 3 a much more cost-effective alternative. On the other hand, while the scenic route offers stunning landscapes, the additional 200 miles may not be worth the extra gas expenses unless you have enough time to enjoy the sights along the way.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Cary, North Carolina, to Overland Park, Kansas, involves careful consideration of cost and distance. After exploring the different route options, we can confidently recommend Route 3, the quick and efficient route, which strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness and time-saving by encompassing approximately 1,100 miles and requiring around 150 gallons of gas.

However, it is important to note that the time it takes to complete the trip will depend on variables such as traffic, rest stops, and personal preferences. It is always advisable to plan for breaks and ensure you are well-rested to maintain a safe and enjoyable journey.