The Cost of a Trip between Chicago, Illinois and Longmont, Colorado based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Longmont, Colorado? One crucial aspect to consider is the cost of the journey, particularly the fuel expenses which can vary depending on the route taken and current gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes and highlight the distance and cost associated with each option. By comparing these routes, we will recommend the best route for cost-conscious travelers. So buckle up and let's dive into the cost analysis of this road trip!

Route Options

When embarking on a road trip from Chicago to Longmont, one can choose between several possible routes. The distance and fuel cost will vary depending on the chosen path. Let's examine the three most common routes:

Route 1: I-80 W

The first option is to take Interstate 80 West (I-80 W), which is the most direct route. This path covers approximately 1,000 miles and passes through states such as Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming before reaching Colorado. By using I-80 W, travelers can avoid major deviations and stay on a predominantly westward path.

Route 2: I-70 W

Another popular option is to take Interstate 70 West (I-70 W). This route covers a similar distance to I-80 W, but the roads and landscapes differ. By choosing I-70 W, adventurers can witness breathtaking sceneries, as this route passes through the states of Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and eventually reaches Longmont.

Route 3: I-90 W/I-25 S

The third route choice involves taking Interstate 90 West (I-90 W) initially and then switching to Interstate 25 South (I-25 S) to complete the journey. This route covers a slightly longer distance compared to the previous options; however, it offers a combination of urban and rural sights, making the trip more diverse in terms of landscapes. This route passes through states such as Illinois, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Colorado before reaching Longmont.

Cost Analysis

Now, let's delve deeper into the cost analysis of these route options. For this analysis, we will assume a typical fuel consumption rate of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and consider the average gas price of $3.00 per gallon.

Route 1: I-80 W

To calculate the cost of this route, we divide the distance of approximately 1,000 miles by the fuel consumption rate of 25 mpg. The result is 40 gallons of fuel needed for this journey. Multiply this by the average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, and you can expect to spend approximately $120 on gas for this route.

Route 2: I-70 W

Taking I-70 W covers a similar distance to Route 1. Therefore, the fuel consumption and cost calculations will yield similar results. Travelers should anticipate spending around $120 for gas on this route as well.

Route 3: I-90 W/ I-25 S

As mentioned earlier, this route is slightly longer compared to the previous options, estimated to be around 1,075 miles. Taking this into account, the fuel consumption will be slightly higher. With a fuel consumption rate of 25 mpg, travelers will need about 43 gallons of gas for this journey. Multiplying this by the average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the approximate cost of fuel for this route amounts to $129.

Recommendation

After analyzing the cost and distance of each route option, we can now make a recommendation. Both Route 1 and Route 2 have similar distances and costs, making them the more economical choices for a Chicago to Longmont trip. However, if one wishes to experience more varied landscapes and sights, Route 3 (I-90 W/I-25 S) offers an exciting mix of urban and rural scenery. Therefore, it can be a preferred choice for travelers seeking more than just a direct route.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a road trip between Chicago, Illinois and Longmont, Colorado depends on various factors, primarily the chosen route and current gas prices. Route 1 (I-80 W) and Route 2 (I-70 W) offer similar distances and fuel costs, totaling around $120 each. However, for those seeking a more diverse journey, Route 3 (I-90 W/I-25 S) can be a slightly pricier option at an estimated fuel cost of $129.

When planning your own trip, keep in mind that gas prices are subject to change. It is always wise to check for the most up-to-date prices to accurately estimate the cost of your journey. Furthermore, consider other factors such as time constraints, sightseeing preferences, and road conditions before making your final route decision.

Safe travels and enjoy the road trip from Chicago to Longmont!