The Cost of a Trip from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine: A Comparison of Routes Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a road trip, it’s essential to consider the cost of travel, especially with fluctuating gas prices. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, knowing the expenses involved in driving from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine can help you budget effectively. In this article, we will compare the cost of different routes based on current gas prices, examine the distance of each route, and recommend the best route for your journey.

Route Options and Cost Analysis

Route 1: I-90 E and I-290 E

The first route to consider when traveling from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine is via I-90 E and I-290 E. This route covers approximately 1,050 miles and usually takes around 15-17 hours to complete, depending on factors such as traffic and road conditions. As of the current gas prices, the estimated cost of driving this route is about $140 to $180 each way, based on an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and the national average gas price of $3.00 per gallon.

Route 2: I-94 E and I-80 E

Another option is to take I-94 E and I-80 E, which offers a slightly different route from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine. This route covers approximately 1,200 miles and typically takes around 17-19 hours to complete, accounting for the same factors that can affect travel time. Based on current gas prices, the estimated cost of driving this route is approximately $160 to $200 each way, using the same average fuel efficiency and gas price as mentioned for Route 1.

Route 3: I-90 E and I-86 E

Lastly, travelers can consider taking I-90 E and I-86 E as an alternative route from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine. This route covers approximately 1,150 miles and usually takes around 16-18 hours to complete, similar to the other routes. Based on current gas prices, the estimated cost of driving this route is around $150 to $190 each way, again using the same average fuel efficiency and gas price as mentioned for Routes 1 and 2.

Recommendation

After analyzing the routes and their associated costs, the most cost-effective option for traveling from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine is Route 1: I-90 E and I-290 E. This route offers the shortest distance and provides a slightly lower estimated cost of travel compared to the other two routes. While the differences in cost may seem minimal, every dollar saved can contribute to a more enjoyable travel experience, whether for sightseeing, dining, or accommodations along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the recommended route for the trip from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Bar Harbor, Maine is via I-90 E and I-290 E. By choosing this route, travelers can expect to spend approximately $140 to $180 on gas based on current prices, covering a distance of roughly 1,050 miles. The travel time for this route is estimated to be around 15-17 hours, offering a balance between cost-effectiveness and efficient driving. Ultimately, careful planning and consideration of gas prices can help make the journey both affordable and enjoyable. Safe travels!