The Cost of a Trip Between Charleston, Illinois and Lafayette, Indiana Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Charleston, Illinois and Lafayette, Indiana, it's important to consider the cost of transportation, particularly the cost of fuel. Gas prices can fluctuate, so it's essential to factor in this cost when budgeting for your trip. In this article, we will break down the cost of a trip between these two cities based on current gas prices, as well as the different possible routes and their associated costs. We will also recommend the best route for cost-efficient travel.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-74 W

One possible route between Charleston, Illinois and Lafayette, Indiana is via I-74 W. This route covers a distance of approximately 135 miles and takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to drive one way. Based on the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, and the average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon for a typical mid-sized car, the cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $16.20 round trip.

Route 2: US-150 W and I-57 S

Another route option is to take US-150 W and I-57 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 145 miles and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive one way. Using the same average gas price and fuel economy, the cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $17.40 round trip.

Route 3: IL-1 S and US-136 W

Alternatively, travelers can take IL-1 S and US-136 W. This route covers a distance of approximately 150 miles and takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive one way. Based on the current gas prices and average fuel economy, the cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $18.00 round trip.

Recommended Route

Based on the cost of fuel and the distance of each route, I-74 W is the most cost-efficient option for traveling between Charleston, Illinois and Lafayette, Indiana. While all three routes have similar drive times, I-74 W offers the shortest distance and, therefore, the lowest fuel cost round trip. Additionally, I-74 W is a major interstate highway, making it a convenient and well-maintained route for travel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when factoring in the current gas prices and the distance of each route, I-74 W is the recommended route for a cost-efficient trip between Charleston, Illinois and Lafayette, Indiana. With a round trip fuel cost of approximately $16.20, this route offers the best value for budget-conscious travelers. Keep in mind that these cost estimates are based on current gas prices and fuel economy averages, so it's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date prices and plan accordingly. Safe travels!