The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Panama City Beach, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Panama City Beach, Florida? With summer just around the corner, it's the perfect time to hit the road and explore new destinations. But before you embark on this exciting adventure, it's essential to plan your route and consider the cost. In this blog post, we will break down the cost of driving from Chicago to Panama City Beach based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Efficient Interstate Journey

If you're looking for the quickest and most straightforward route, taking the interstates is your best bet. In this route, you'll be primarily using I-57 South, I-24 East, and I-75 South. The total distance between Chicago and Panama City Beach is approximately 900 miles.

Driving without long breaks, this route should take you around 14-16 hours, depending on traffic and your driving speed. It's crucial to stay safe and take breaks if needed.

Now let's talk numbers. Based on the average gas price of $2.75 per gallon and an average of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need approximately 36 gallons for this trip. Therefore, you can expect to spend around $99 on gas alone. Don't forget to factor in any tolls you may encounter along the way. Luckily, this route does not have any significant tolls, so you can enjoy a smooth ride without breaking the bank.

Route 2: The Scenic Midwest Adventure

If you're a nature lover or prefer to take the road less traveled, this route might pique your interest. Instead of sticking strictly to the interstates, you'll have the opportunity to explore some hidden gems along the way.

Starting from Chicago, you'll head south on I-65, eventually meeting I-10 in Mobile, Alabama. From there, you'll head east to Panama City Beach. The total distance of this route is approximately 950 miles.

Since this route involves more scenic detours, it may take you a bit longer to reach your destination. Expect the journey to take around 16-18 hours, depending on your exploration time and driving speed. Remember to take frequent breaks and soak in the beauty of the Midwest.

Now, let's talk expenses. With the same average gas price of $2.75 per gallon and using around 38 gallons during the trip, you can estimate your gas expense to be around $104. As for tolls, you will encounter a few along the way, costing approximately $15 in total.

Route 3: The Coastal Experience

If you're looking for a more coastal experience, this route will take you along the scenic Gulf Coast. Starting from Chicago, you'll head south on I-57, connecting to I-55 South in Missouri. From there, you'll take I-10 East, all the way to Panama City Beach. This picturesque route spans approximately 1,100 miles.

Due to the longer distance and the opportunity to explore the charming coastal towns, this route will take you around 18-20 hours, depending on your pace and time spent sightseeing. Remember to plan your stops accordingly and stretch your legs.

Now, let's crunch those numbers. Given the same gas price of $2.75 per gallon and an average consumption of around 44 gallons, you can expect to spend approximately $121 on gas for this route. Tolls on this route can be a bit pricier, with a total of approximately $30.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a road trip from Chicago to Panama City Beach is a thrilling adventure filled with unforgettable sights and memorable experiences. As you plan your journey, always consider the distance, cost, and time associated with each route.

Whether you choose the efficient interstates, opt for the scenic Midwest adventure, or embark on the coastal route, be sure to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Happy travels!