Driving Cost from Clinton, Mississippi to Benton, Arkansas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Clinton, MS and Benton, AR: Navigating Gas Prices

When it comes to planning a trip between Clinton, Mississippi and Benton, Arkansas, calculating the cost of gas is essential in creating an accurate budget. With fluctuating gas prices, it's important to consider the most cost-effective route to ensure you're getting the best bang for your buck. In this guide, we'll explore different travel routes, the associated costs, and provide recommendations for the most economical journey.

Travel Routes and Distances

Route 1: I-20 W and I-30 W

The first route option is straight-forward, taking I-20 W and then transitioning onto I-30 W. This route covers a distance of approximately 168 miles and is the most direct path between Clinton, MS and Benton, AR. However, it's important to note that frequent stops or heavy traffic along this route can impact fuel efficiency.

Route 2: US-49 N and I-30 W

For those looking to take a more scenic route and potentially save on fuel, taking US-49 N before joining I-30 W could be an alternative. This route stretches for about 174 miles, a slightly longer distance than Route 1, but the change in scenery may contribute to a more enjoyable journey.

Route 3: MS-18 W and US-49 N

A third option involves taking MS-18 W before merging onto US-49 N and eventually joining I-30 W. This route spans approximately 190 miles and while it may be the longest in terms of distance, it could present opportunities for lower gas prices along the way.

Calculating the Cost

To calculate the cost of gas for each route, it's important to consider the current average gas prices in both Mississippi and Arkansas. As of the time of this writing, the average price of regular unleaded gas in Mississippi is $2.75 per gallon, while in Arkansas, it stands at $2.65 per gallon.

Using these average prices and factoring in the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, you can estimate the total cost of gas for each route. For simplicity, let's assume a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a total journey distance of 190 miles.

  • Route 1: Total cost = (168 miles / 25 miles/gallon) * $2.75/gallon = $18.48
  • Route 2: Total cost = (174 miles / 25 miles/gallon) * $2.75/gallon = $19.36
  • Route 3: Total cost = (190 miles / 25 miles/gallon) * $2.65/gallon = $20.28

Based on these calculations, Route 1 emerges as the most cost-effective in terms of gas expenditure, with Route 2 closely following behind. Despite being the most direct, Route 3 ultimately proves to be the most expensive due to the longer distance and lower gas prices.

Recommendations

Considering the factors of distance, fuel efficiency, and current gas prices, Route 1 along I-20 W and I-30 W is the recommended choice for a cost-effective trip between Clinton, MS and Benton, AR. Not only does it offer the shortest distance, but it also provides the best balance between fuel efficiency and average gas prices in the respective states.

By choosing Route 1, travelers can ensure that their gas budget remains manageable while enjoying a relatively swift and direct journey. Additionally, taking into account potential traffic and road conditions could further optimize the travel experience, ultimately saving time and money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with the current gas prices in mind, choosing the most cost-effective route for a trip between Clinton, Mississippi and Benton, Arkansas is crucial in managing travel expenses. While there are multiple routes to consider, the calculations demonstrate that Route 1 along I-20 W and I-30 W emerges as the most economical option in terms of gas costs.

By accounting for fuel efficiency and average gas prices, travelers can make informed decisions to optimize their budget while embarking on a smooth and seamless journey between these two destinations. With the recommended route in mind, a well-planned trip can be both financially prudent and hassle-free.