The Cost of a Trip Between Chapel Hill, NC and Loomis, CA: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Chapel Hill, NC, to Loomis, CA, may seem like a daunting task. However, with the right planning and research, this trip can be manageable, enjoyable, and affordable. This guide explores the different possible routes, distances, and costs, based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

There are several possible routes to reach Loomis, CA, from Chapel Hill, NC. Here are some of them:

Route 1: Via I-40 W and I-20 W

If you prefer to drive through the middle of the country, then this route might be for you. It covers a distance of approximately 2,670 miles and takes about 41 hours to complete. Here is the breakdown of the distance and cost, based on current gas prices:

Distance: 2,670 miles
Gas cost: $360 (based on an average gas price of $2.69 per gallon)
Toll cost: $100 (estimated)
Total cost: $460

Route 2: Via I-40 W and I-5 N

This route takes a more western path and covers a distance of approximately 2,745 miles. It takes about 41 hours to complete and passes through some of the most scenic regions in the US. Here is the breakdown of the distance and cost, based on current gas prices:

Distance: 2,745 miles
Gas cost: $370 (based on an average gas price of $2.69 per gallon)
Toll cost: $100 (estimated)
Total cost: $470

Route 3: Via I-85 S, I-65 S, I-55 S, and I-40 W

If you prefer to travel through the southern states, then this route might suit you. It covers a distance of approximately 2,865 miles and takes around 44 hours to complete. Here is the breakdown of the distance and cost, based on current gas prices:

Distance: 2,865 miles
Gas cost: $390 (based on an average gas price of $2.69 per gallon)
Toll cost: $150 (estimated)
Total cost: $540

Route 4: Via I-85 S, I-20 W, and I-5 N

This route covers the southern states and follows the western coast of the US. It covers a distance of approximately 2,900 miles and takes about 45 hours to complete. Here is the breakdown of the distance and cost, based on current gas prices:

Distance: 2,900 miles
Gas cost: $400 (based on an average gas price of $2.69 per gallon)
Toll cost: $150 (estimated)
Total cost: $550

Recommendations

Based on the distance and cost breakdown, Route 1 (via I-40 W and I-20 W) is the most cost-effective and time-efficient. It covers less distance and has minimal tolls, making it more affordable. Moreover, it takes less time to reach Loomis, CA, allowing you to spend more time exploring.

Although Route 3 (via I-85 S, I-65 S, I-55 S, and I-40 W) is cheaper than Route 4 (via I-85 S, I-20 W, and I-5 N), it has more tolls, making it less attractive. Similarly, Route 2 (via I-40 W and I-5 N) has more distance and gas costs, making it costlier than Route 1.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling from Chapel Hill, NC, to Loomis, CA, can be an exciting adventure with proper planning and research. Based on the current gas prices, it is best to take Route 1 (via I-40 W and I-20 W), which covers a distance of approximately 2,670 miles with minimal tolls and gas costs. Therefore, it is a budget-friendly and time-efficient option for anyone planning to make the trip. With calm and leisurely driving, you can complete this journey in approximately 41 hours.