The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Westwood, New Jersey

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Westwood, New Jersey? If so, you're in for an exciting adventure! Traveling by car allows you to enjoy scenic views, stop at interesting landmarks, and immerse yourself in the journey. But before you hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of the trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices and toll fees. In this blog post, we'll explore the different routes, their distances, travel times, and the estimated costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Direct Route

The most straightforward route from Chicago to Westwood is to take I-80 E. This route spans approximately 800 miles and typically takes around 12 hours of driving time, depending on traffic conditions. As you make your way through Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and finally New Jersey, you'll encounter a mix of urban landscapes and beautiful rural scenery.

Considering the average gas price in the Midwest and East Coast, let's assume a ballpark figure of $2.50 per gallon for this journey. With an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to use around 32 gallons of gasoline. Therefore, the estimated cost of gas for this route would be around $80.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you're looking to add more adventure and explore some picturesque sights, you might consider taking a slightly longer route via I-90 E and I-87 S. Although the distance extends to approximately 830 miles, the extra miles are well worth it for those seeking a more scenic drive.

This route will take you through the breathtaking beauty of the Great Lakes region, the Adirondack Mountains, and the lovely Hudson Valley. You'll experience a mix of urban charm and tranquil landscapes, providing ample opportunities for memorable stops along the way.

With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency as mentioned earlier, you can expect to use around 33 gallons of gasoline for this route, totaling an estimated $82 for the whole journey.

Route 3: The Cost-Saving Route

For budget-conscious travelers, there is a way to save a few bucks by taking a more cost-effective route. By combining I-80 E and I-76 E, you can minimize toll fees and potentially reduce your gas consumption.

The distance of this route is similar to the direct route, with approximately 800 miles of driving. However, because you avoid some toll roads, you'll only spend around $35 on tolls compared to the roughly $55 on the direct route.

Considering the cheaper toll fees and the same gas prices as before, the total estimated cost for gas on this route would be around $80, similar to the direct route.

Conclusion

Now that we've explored three different routes from Chicago, Illinois to Westwood, New Jersey, it's time for you to decide which one suits you best. If you prefer the direct and fastest route, Route 1 is your best bet. For those seeking scenic adventures and don't mind adding a few extra miles, Route 2 offers breathtaking landscapes. And if saving money is your top priority, then Route 3, the cost-saving route, should be your choice.

Remember, these estimates are based on current gas prices and toll fees, so it's always a good idea to check for any updates before embarking on your journey. Whatever route you choose, we wish you a safe and enjoyable trip!