The Cost of a Trip between Cedar Park, Texas and Carlsbad, New Mexico - A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Taking a trip to Carlsbad, New Mexico from Cedar Park, Texas is always an exciting idea, especially for those who love a good road trip. The distance between the two cities is about 450 miles, and there are different routes to take, each with its unique features and costs. In this article, we will delve into the various routes available and their associated costs based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

Route 1: Via I-10 W and US-285 S

This route involves starting from Cedar Park, Texas, and following the I-10 W highway till you get to the US-285 S. You continue on the US-285 S until you arrive at Carlsbad, New Mexico.

The distance between Cedar Park, Texas, and Carlsbad, New Mexico, is about 482.1 miles and has an estimated driving time of 7 hours and 32 minutes. On average, a gallon of gas is sold for $2.78 in Texas and $2.97 in New Mexico. For this journey, you'll need about 13.5 gallons of gas to get to Carlsbad, New Mexico.

The total estimated gas cost for this journey will be $52.28. Adding this to other expenses, such as meals and accommodation, could take the total trip cost to about $200.

Route 2: Via US-281 S and US-62 W

This route is another popular one and begins with a drive down the US-281 S highway. You later join the US-62 W highway and follow it till you arrive at Carlsbad, New Mexico.

The distance between Cedar Park, Texas, and Carlsbad, New Mexico, via US-281 S and US-62 W is approximately 472.9 miles, and it has an estimated driving time of 7 hours and 33 minutes. As with route 1, based on current gas prices, you'll need about 13.5 gallons of gas to travel the entire journey.

On this route, you will spend an estimated $52.28 on gas alone. Of course, bear in mind that there are other expenses to cater for during the trip.

Route 3: Via US-377 S and US-380 W

This route involves starting from Cedar Park, Texas, and following the US-377 S highway. You later join the US-380 W highway, which will take you through the rugged terrain of West Texas before you arrive at Carlsbad, New Mexico.

The distance between Cedar Park, Texas, and Carlsbad, New Mexico, via US-377 S and US-380 W is approximately 469.4 miles, and the total estimated driving time is 7 hours and 52 minutes. And as with the other two routes, you'll need about 13.5 gallons of gas to travel the entire distance.

Based on current gas prices, this route would cost you an estimated $52.28 in gas (at 13.5 gallons of gas consumed) for the entire trip. Adding other expenses like meals and accommodation could take the total cost to about $200.

Best Route - Route 1

Based on the analysis of the three routes available, I would recommend taking Route 1, which involves following the I-10 W highway till you get to the US-285 S. You continue on the US-285 S until you arrive at Carlsbad, New Mexico.

Route 1 appears to be more comfortable and safer than other routes, based on the distance, driving time, and terrain. Besides, based on the estimated gas cost, Route 1, like the other routes, will cost an estimated $52.28 in gas alone, which is relatively affordable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of traveling between Cedar Park, Texas, and Carlsbad, New Mexico, can vary based on the route you choose, gas prices, and associated expenses like accommodation and meals. From the three possible routes analyzed, Route 1 is not only affordable but also comfortable, safe, and enjoyable—so we recommend it. Finally, the journey would take approximately seven hours and 32 minutes, and you'll need about 13.5 gallons of gas to complete it. Happy travels!