Driving Cost from Chardon, Ohio to Lakewood, California

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The Cost of a Cross-Country Road Trip: Chardon, Ohio to Lakewood, California

Are you planning a road trip from Chardon, Ohio, to Lakewood, California? Whether you’re looking to explore the countryside, visit friends and family, or simply enjoy the open road, a cross-country drive can be a great adventure. But before you hit the highway, it’s essential to plan your route and budget your expenses. Here’s everything you need to know about the cost of a trip between Chardon and Lakewood, including different routes, gas prices, tolls, and more.

Route Options

The route you choose can make a big difference in your travel time, mileage, and fuel costs. Depending on your preferences and priorities, you have a few options:

Option 1: I-80 W and I-76/Ohio Tpk W

This is the most direct route to Lakewood, covering approximately 2,105 miles. You'll start on I-80 W from Chardon, OH and then switch to I-76/Ohio Turnpike West in Mansfield, OH. You'll continue on this toll road through Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio before reaching Pennsylvania. After that, you'll transition to I-80 W and cross through Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada before arriving in California. While this route has its advantages (no need to switch highways, relatively straight and flat terrain), it also has a few drawbacks, including:

  • Tolls: The Ohio Turnpike has tolls that can add up quickly, especially if you’re driving a car with a trailer or RV. As of 2021, the toll rates for Class 2 vehicles (two-axle vehicles) range from $13.50 to $55.10 based on the distance traveled. You can save some money by getting an E-ZPass or opting for cash.
  • Boredom: With long stretches of highway and little scenery, this route can feel monotonous and tiring.
  • Delays: In some areas, particularly near large cities like Chicago and Salt Lake City, traffic can be slow or congested, adding time to your journey.

Option 2: I-70 W and I-15 S

This route covers approximately 2,277 miles and takes you through more scenic and mountainous areas than the first option. Starting in Chardon, OH, you’ll drive on I-70 W through Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado. Then, you’ll switch to I-15 S in Utah and go through Nevada before reaching California. Here are some pros and cons of this route:

  • Scenery: This option offers plenty of natural beauty, from the rolling hills of Indiana and Illinois to the towering peaks of the Rockies.
  • Adventure: If you’re up for some detours and hiking, this route has plenty of national parks, including Rocky Mountain, Capitol Reef, and Zion. You can also stop in cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Las Vegas for some entertainment.
  • Altitude: With many mountain passes and steep climbs, this route can be challenging for drivers who aren’t used to high elevations or winding roads. Make sure your vehicle is in good shape, and take breaks often to avoid fatigue.

Option 3: I-90 W and I-5 S

This route covers approximately 2,790 miles and takes you through the northernmost states of the country. Starting in Chardon, OH, you’ll drive on I-90 W through Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts before reaching Chicago. Then, you’ll switch to I-94 W in Wisconsin and drive through Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Finally, you’ll switch to I-5 S in Seattle and go through Oregon before reaching California. Here’s what to expect with this option:

  • Diversity: This route covers a lot of ground and offers different landscapes, from the Great Lakes to the Badlands to the Cascades and the Pacific Coast.
  • Unexpected detours: With so many states to cross, you may want to visit some attractions that are not on your main route, such as Mount Rushmore, Glacier National Park, or Seattle’s Pike Place Market.
  • Time-consuming: Because this route is longer and has more towns and cities to pass through, it can take longer than the other options. Expect at least 44 hours of driving time, plus additional stops for meals, rests, and activities.

Gas Prices and Mileage

Now that you know your options, it’s time to calculate the fuel costs of each route. Gas prices vary depending on location, season, and demand, so it’s always good to check the current rates before your trip. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Ohio is $3.09 per gallon, while in California, it’s $4.36 per gallon, according to AAA. You can use a gas cost calculator like GasBuddy to estimate how much you’ll spend overall based on your vehicle’s make, model, and fuel efficiency.

For example, let’s say you’re driving a midsize sedan that gets 30 miles per gallon (MPG) on the highway and has a 15-gallon tank. Here’s how much you’ll spend on gas for each route, based on eight refueling stops and average gas prices:

Option 1: I-80 W and I-76/Ohio Tpk W

  • Total distance: 2,105 miles
  • Estimated mpg: 30 mpg
  • Number of stops: 8
  • Total gas cost: $323.43

Option 2: I-70 W and I-15 S

  • Total distance: 2,277 miles
  • Estimated mpg: 30 mpg
  • Number of stops: 8
  • Total gas cost: $353.16

Option 3: I-90 W and I-5 S

  • Total distance: 2,790 miles
  • Estimated mpg: 30 mpg
  • Number of stops: 8
  • Total gas cost: $434.82

Of course, your actual costs may vary based on factors such as traffic, weather, and driving habits (such as speeding or idling). It’s always a good idea to add some wiggle room to your budget for unexpected expenses or emergencies.

Other Expenses

Besides gas, there are other expenses you need to consider when planning a cross-country road trip. Some of the most significant ones include:

  • Lodging: Unless you’re comfortable sleeping in your car or camping, you’ll need to find a place to stay overnight. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from hotels, motels, vacation rentals, or even hostels. The average cost of a hotel room in the US is around $100 to $150 per night, but you can find cheaper or more expensive options depending on location and amenities.
  • Food: You’ll need to eat during your trip, and that can add up quickly if you dine out or buy snacks at rest stops. To save money, you can bring your own food and drinks or cook meals in your hotel room if it has a kitchenette. If you do eat out, look for deals, coupons, or local specialties that won’t break the bank.
  • Entertainment: While the road itself can be entertaining, you may want to visit attractions or participate in activities along the way. These can range from free hikes or museums to pricey theme parks or concerts. Do some research beforehand to find out what you’d like to see and how much it costs, and prioritize your spending based on your interests and budget.

Conclusion

In the end, the best route for your Chardon-Lakewood road trip depends on your agenda, timeline, and finances. Each option has its pros and cons, from tolls and traffic to scenery and adventure. However, based on the above calculations and factors, the I-70 W and I-15 S route may offer the best balance of expense and experience for most travelers. It’s a bit longer than Option 1 but offers more variety and attractions. Plus, it has fewer tolls and more affordable gas prices than Option 3. Of course, this is just a recommendation, and you should choose the route that suits your needs and preferences the most. No matter which road you take, prepare well, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!