The Cost of a Trip Between Charleston, South Carolina and Springfield, Missouri in Today's Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Charleston, South Carolina to Springfield, Missouri? You certainly must be excited about the scenic route and all the interesting places along the way. However, before you embark on your journey, it's essential to know the cost of the trip based on current gas prices. In this article, we will look at different possible routes, the distance, and the cost of each route. We will also recommend the best route for a comfortable drive that won't break the bank.

The Possible Routes

There are different routes that you can choose from when travelling between Charleston and Springfield, Missouri. The two most common routes are I-40 W and I-20 W.

Route 1: Via I-40 W

This route takes you through Tennessee and Arkansas before finally getting to Missouri. From Charleston, you will take I-26 W all the way to Asheville, NC, where you will merge onto I-40 W. You will continue driving on I-40 West until you reach Springfield, MO.

Route 2: Via I-20 W

This route takes you through Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi before finally getting to Missouri. You will drive from Charleston, SC, to Columbia, SC, where you will merge onto I-20 W. You will continue driving on I-20 W all the way to Memphis, TN, where you will merge onto I-55 N. You will then merge onto I-40 W, which will take you to Springfield, MO.

The Cost and Distance of Each Route

Although both routes can get you to Springfield, MO, the cost and distance vary. The distance for Route 1, via I-40 W, is approximately 1039 miles, while the distance for Route 2, via I-20 W, is approximately 1037 miles. However, the cost of gas and other expenses vary and can affect your choice of route.

Cost of Route 1

To calculate the cost of gas for Route 1, we will assume an average fuel economy of 27 miles per gallon (mpg) and an average gas price of $2.35 per gallon, as of October 2021. With this, the cost of gas for Route 1 is approximately $95.28. Other expenses that you might incur on this route include toll fees, rest stops, food and lodging, and entertainment.

Cost of Route 2

To calculate the cost of gas for Route 2, we will assume an average fuel economy of 26 mpg and the same average gas price of $2.35 per gallon. With this, the cost of gas for Route 2 is approximately $97.86. Other expenses that you might incur on this route include toll fees, rest stops, food and lodging, and entertainment.

The Best Route

Although both routes have almost the same distance, the cost of gas for Route 1 is slightly lower than that of Route 2. Route 1, however, has more toll fees than Route 2, which can increase the overall cost of the trip. However, Route 1 has a more scenic route, with lots of interesting places to visit, like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. On the other hand, Route 2 has fewer toll fees and offers a straightforward drive.

Therefore, the best route between Charleston, South Carolina and Springfield, Missouri, is Route 1, via I-40 W. The scenic route offers you an opportunity to explore different cities and towns along the way, presenting a more exciting trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are planning a road trip from Charleston, South Carolina, to Springfield, Missouri, it's essential to consider the cost of the trip based on current gas prices. Although both routes can get you to your destination, the cost of gas and other expenses vary. We recommend choosing Route 1, via I-40 W, for a comfortable and exciting trip. With proper planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable journey and experience everything that the route has to offer. Happy traveling!