The Cost of a Trip between Champaign, Illinois and Oak Island, North Carolina: A Guide to Gas Prices, Routes, and Travel Expenses

When planning a trip from Champaign, Illinois to Oak Island, North Carolina, one of the most important considerations is the cost of transportation. With fluctuating gas prices, it can be challenging to determine exactly how much the trip will cost and which route to take to minimize expenses. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one. Additionally, we will recommend the best route based on gas prices and travel expenses.

Route Options and Distances

There are three main route options when traveling from Champaign, Illinois to Oak Island, North Carolina. These routes are as follows:

Route 1: The I-65 and I-85 route

The first route involves taking I-65 South until you reach Birmingham, Alabama. From there, you can take I-85 South through Georgia until you reach Brunswick, Georgia. Finally, you can take US-17 South into Oak Island, North Carolina. This route is approximately 930 miles long.

Route 2: The I-57 and I-24 route

The second route involves taking I-57 South until you reach Memphis, Tennessee. From there, you can take I-24 East through Nashville and Chattanooga until you reach Atlanta, Georgia. Finally, you can take I-75 South and I-16 East until you reach US-17 South, which will take you into Oak Island, North Carolina. This route is approximately 950 miles long.

Route 3: The I-74 and I-77 route

The third route involves taking I-74 East until you reach Greensboro, North Carolina. From there, you can take I-77 South until you reach US-17 South, which will take you into Oak Island, North Carolina. This route is approximately 680 miles long.

Gas Prices and Travel Expenses

Gas prices will inevitably be a major factor in determining the cost of your trip from Champaign, Illinois to Oak Island, North Carolina. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Illinois is $3.50 per gallon. In comparison, the average gas price in North Carolina is $2.90 per gallon. It is important to keep these gas price discrepancies in mind when planning your route.

To estimate the cost of your trip based on gas prices, you can use online tools such as GasBuddy. For example, if you have a car that gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and you take the I-65 and I-85 route (which is approximately 930 miles long), you will need around 37 gallons of gas. At the current average price of $3.50 per gallon in Illinois, this would cost you around $129.50. In comparison, if you take the I-74 and I-77 route (which is approximately 680 miles long), you will need around 27 gallons of gas. At the current average price of $2.90 per gallon in North Carolina, this would cost you around $78.30.

In addition to gas prices, there are other travel expenses to consider when planning your trip. These expenses may include food, accommodations, and tolls (if applicable). It is important to budget for these expenses in advance to avoid any surprises on the road.

Recommended Route

Based on gas prices and travel expenses, the I-74 and I-77 route is the most cost-effective route when traveling from Champaign, Illinois to Oak Island, North Carolina. Although this route is shorter than the other two options, it is also the most direct. Additionally, gas prices in North Carolina are generally cheaper than in Illinois, which can result in significant savings in the long run.

Another factor to consider when choosing a route is traffic. The I-65 and I-85 route can be particularly congested around Atlanta, Georgia which can add hours to your travel time. Similarly, the I-57 and I-24 route can be slow-moving through Nashville during peak travel times. The I-74 and I-77 route tends to have less traffic overall, making it a more efficient option.

Conclusion

Planning a trip from Champaign, Illinois to Oak Island, North Carolina requires careful consideration of gas prices, route options, and travel expenses. By choosing the most cost-effective route and budgeting for expenses in advance, you can ensure that your trip is both enjoyable and affordable. With the I-74 and I-77 route, you can expect to travel approximately 680 miles and spend around $78.30 in gas (based on current average gas prices in North Carolina). Happy travels!