The Cost of a Trip: Columbia, Missouri to Charleston, West Virginia

When planning a trip between Columbia, Missouri and Charleston, West Virginia, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of travel. With fluctuating gas prices and different possible routes, it can be challenging to determine the most cost-effective way to reach your destination. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Columbia, Missouri and Charleston, West Virginia based on current gas prices, highlight the different possible routes, and recommend the best route for a budget-friendly journey.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-70 E to I-64 E

The most direct route between Columbia, Missouri and Charleston, West Virginia is taking Interstate 70 East to Interstate 64 East. This route covers a distance of approximately 600 miles and typically takes around 9 hours to complete.

Based on current gas prices, the average cost of gas for this trip is estimated to be around $150, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and fluctuating gas prices. The route primarily consists of highways, which generally have a consistent gas price range along the way.

Route 2: US-50 E to I-64 E

Another possible route to consider is taking US-50 East to Interstate 64 East. This route covers a distance of approximately 650 miles and typically takes around 10 hours to complete.

Based on current gas prices, the average cost of gas for this trip is estimated to be around $160. While this route might be slightly longer in distance, it can offer scenic views and the opportunity to explore smaller towns along the way.

Route 3: I-44 E to I-64 E

For those looking for a southern route, Interstate 44 East to Interstate 64 East is an alternative option to consider. This route covers a distance of approximately 700 miles and typically takes around 11 hours to complete.

Based on current gas prices, the average cost of gas for this trip is estimated to be around $175. While this route may be the longest in terms of distance and travel time, it offers the opportunity to experience different landscapes and regions along the journey.

Recommended Route

After considering the different possible routes and their associated costs, the recommended route for a cost-effective trip between Columbia, Missouri and Charleston, West Virginia is taking Interstate 70 East to Interstate 64 East. This route offers the most direct and efficient path to the destination while keeping gas costs relatively low.

While Route 2 and Route 3 may offer unique experiences and sights along the way, they also result in higher gas costs due to the increased distance and travel time. Therefore, for travelers looking to minimize their expenses and reach their destination in a timely manner, Route 1 is the most practical and budget-friendly option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Columbia, Missouri and Charleston, West Virginia is influenced by current gas prices and the chosen route. After weighing the options, taking Interstate 70 East to Interstate 64 East emerges as the most cost-effective route, with an estimated average gas cost of $150 for the journey. By selecting this route, travelers can minimize their expenses and enjoy a relatively direct and efficient drive that spans approximately 600 miles and takes around 9 hours to complete. Safe travels!