The Cost of a Trip from College Place, Washington to La Mesa, California

Introduction

Planning a trip from College Place, Washington to La Mesa, California can be an exciting but daunting task. One of the major factors to consider when embarking on this journey is the cost, particularly with regards to fuel expenses. With fluctuating gas prices, the cost of the trip can vary significantly depending on the route taken. In this article, we will explore the various routes from College Place to La Mesa and analyze the cost and distance of each one. We will also recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route Options and Cost Analysis

Route 1: I-84 E and I-15 S

The first route option from College Place, Washington to La Mesa, California involves taking I-84 E and then transitioning to I-15 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,131 miles and is estimated to take around 16 hours to complete.

With an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), the cost of gas for this route can be calculated based on the current average gas price. As of [insert date], the average gas price along this route is $3.00 per gallon. Therefore, the total cost of fuel for this route can be estimated by dividing the total distance by the average fuel efficiency and then multiplying it by the gas price:

Total Cost = (Total Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price Total Cost = (1,131 miles / 25 mpg) * $3.00 Total Cost = 45.24 * $3.00 Total Cost = $135.72

Route 2: I-84 E and I-80 E

Another route option from College Place to La Mesa involves taking I-84 E and then transitioning to I-80 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,311 miles and is estimated to take around 18 hours to complete.

Using the same average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg and the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of fuel for this route can be calculated as follows:

Total Cost = (1,311 miles / 25 mpg) * $3.00 Total Cost = 52.44 * $3.00 Total Cost = $157.32

Route 3: I-84 E, I-80 E, and I-15 S

The third route option from College Place to La Mesa combines I-84 E, I-80 E, and I-15 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,346 miles and is estimated to take around 19 hours to complete.

Using the same average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg and the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost of fuel for this route can be calculated as follows:

Total Cost = (1,346 miles / 25 mpg) * $3.00 Total Cost = 53.84 * $3.00 Total Cost = $161.52

Recommended Route

Based on the cost analysis and the current gas prices, the most cost-effective route from College Place, Washington to La Mesa, California is Route 1, which involves taking I-84 E and I-15 S. This route has the shortest distance and the lowest estimated fuel cost at $135.72.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from College Place, Washington to La Mesa, California is largely influenced by the route taken and the current gas prices. Based on the analysis provided, Route 1, which involves taking I-84 E and I-15 S, is the most cost-effective option with an estimated fuel cost of $135.72. Ultimately, the total cost of the trip will also depend on other factors such as vehicle maintenance, accommodation, and dining expenses. As always, it's important to plan ahead and consider all relevant costs before setting out on a road trip of this magnitude. Happy travels!