The Cost of a Trip between Chicago, Illinois and Springdale, Utah
When planning a cross-country road trip, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of transportation. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to map out the most affordable route to your destination. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Springdale, Utah, highlighting different possible routes, their distances, and ultimately recommending the best route based on current gas prices.
Route Options
Option 1: I-80 W and I-70 W
The first route option takes us through the highways of I-80 West and I-70 West. This is the most direct route, covering a distance of approximately 1,350 miles. To estimate the cost of this trip, we'll consider the average gas prices along this route. As of October 2021, the average gas price per gallon in the Midwest region (including Illinois) is $3.18, while in the Mountain region (including Utah), it is $3.50 per gallon.
To calculate the total cost of this trip, we need to take into account the average fuel efficiency of our vehicle. Let's assume it consumes 25 miles per gallon (mpg) on highways. Dividing the distance of 1,350 miles by the fuel efficiency, we get the number of gallons needed for the trip: 54 gallons. Multiplying this by the average gas price in the Midwest, the total cost for the journey amounts to $171.72.
Option 2: I-80 W and US-89 S
Another viable route is to take I-80 West and then switch to US-89 South. This alternative route covers a distance of approximately 1,430 miles. Since we are using the same highways as option 1 until a certain point, the initial cost estimate remains the same. However, reaching Springdale, Utah via US-89 South adds more distance to the journey, resulting in additional fuel costs.
For this estimate, we'll assume the average gas price along the US-89 South route remains consistent with the Mountain region's average of $3.50 per gallon. Considering the added 80 miles along US-89 South, our vehicle will require an extra 3.2 gallons of gas. At $3.50 per gallon, this amounts to an additional cost of $11.20. Adding this to the initial cost estimate, the total cost for this route totals $182.92.
Option 3: I-70 W and I-15 S
The third route option involves taking I-70 West and then switching to I-15 South to reach Springdale, Utah. This route, although slightly longer, offers a change of scenery and different travel experiences. The total distance covered is approximately 1,550 miles.
Using the same methodology as before, we can calculate the fuel costs. With an average gas price of $3.18 per gallon along I-70 West, our estimated cost until the point of switching to I-15 South is $162.72. Transitioning to I-15 South, the gas prices increase to an average of $3.50 per gallon, as in the Mountain region. To cover the remaining distance of 370 miles, our vehicle will require an additional 14.8 gallons of gas, resulting in an extra cost of $51.80. Combining the two fuel costs, the total estimate for this route amounts to $214.52.
Recommendation: The Best Route
Considering the cost estimates and distances covered, the most cost-effective route between Chicago, Illinois and Springdale, Utah is Option 1: I-80 W and I-70 W. This route not only has the shortest distance but also has the advantage of lower fuel prices along I-70 West.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the most affordable route for a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Springdale, Utah is to take I-80 West and then switch to I-70 West. This option covers a distance of approximately 1,350 miles and requires an estimated fuel cost of $171.72, based on the current gas prices in October 2021. It is important to note that these estimates are subject to change due to fluctuations in gas prices. Additionally, the duration of the trip can vary depending on factors such as driving speed and breaks taken along the way. Nonetheless, travelers can enjoy significant savings by choosing the recommended route while embarking on their road trip from Chicago to Springdale. Safe travels!