The Cost of a Trip from Conway, Missouri to El Paso, Texas: Navigating Gas Prices and Routes
Introduction
Taking a trip from Conway, Missouri to El Paso, Texas can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to consider the cost, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we'll explore the different possible routes for this journey and highlight the cost and distance of each one. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of the best route that balances cost and efficiency.
Route Options
Route 1: The I-44 and I-40 Route
The most direct route from Conway to El Paso is to take the I-44 W and I-40 W. This route spans approximately 925 miles and is estimated to take around 14 hours without factoring in stops. With the current average gas price of $2.60 per gallon, a vehicle with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon would require about 37 gallons of gas for the entire journey. This means the round trip cost of gas would be around $96.20.
Route 2: I-44 and I-35 Route
An alternative route could be to take the I-44 W and I-35 S towards El Paso. This route is slightly longer, spanning around 1040 miles and estimated to take about 15 hours of drive time. The increase in distance would also result in higher gas consumption, so the estimated round trip cost for gas would be around $107.60.
Route 3: The Scenic Route
For those who prefer a more scenic drive, taking the I-44 W and cutting through Route 60 W to eventually reach I-27 S towards El Paso is an option. While this route is around 1000 miles, it may take longer due to the terrain and inclination of the roads, resulting in a bit more fuel consumption. The estimated round trip cost for gas would be similar to Route 2, at around $107.60.
The Best Route
Based on cost, time, and distance, the I-44 and I-40 route presents the best balance. It offers a direct path with reasonable driving time and fuel efficiency. While the scenic route may offer beautiful views, it may not be the most practical option when considering cost and time constraints. Even though the I-44 and I-35 route is the shortest in distance, the difference is negligible and doesn't outweigh the added cost of gas.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best route for a trip from Conway, Missouri to El Paso, Texas considering the current gas prices and overall efficiency is the I-44 and I-40 route. With an estimated gas cost of $96.20 for the round trip and a distance of 925 miles, this route strikes a good balance between cost and drive time, providing a smooth and efficient journey towards El Paso.