The Cost of a Trip between Crystal Lake, Illinois and Springfield, Illinois

Traveling between Crystal Lake, Illinois, and Springfield, Illinois can be an exciting adventure. Whether for business or pleasure, there are a few different routes to consider when planning your trip. Gas prices can also impact the cost of your journey, so it's important to take this into account when budgeting for your travels. In this article, we will discuss the different possible route options, the cost and distance of each one, and make a recommendation for the best route based on current gas prices.

Route Options

There are several different routes you can take when traveling from Crystal Lake to Springfield. The two most common routes are via I-55 S and I-355 S, or via I-90 W and I-39 S. Each route has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to cost and distance, so it's important to consider all factors before making a decision.

I-55 S and I-355 S

One of the most direct routes between Crystal Lake and Springfield is to take I-55 S and I-355 S. This route is approximately 219 miles long, and can typically be completed in around 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Gas prices along this route can vary, so it's important to check the current prices before embarking on your journey.

I-90 W and I-39 S

Another possible route is to take I-90 W and I-39 S. This route is slightly longer at approximately 237 miles, but can also typically be completed in around 4 hours. Again, it's important to consider gas prices along this route when budgeting for your trip.

Cost and Distance

When considering the cost and distance of each route, it's important to take into account the current gas prices. As of November 2021, the average gas price in Illinois is around $3.50 per gallon. With this in mind, we can calculate the estimated cost of gas for each route.

I-55 S and I-355 S

Assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for the 219-mile journey along I-55 S and I-355 S would be approximately $30.45. This calculation is based on the assumption of needing 8.76 gallons of gas for the journey.

I-90 W and I-39 S

For the 237-mile journey along I-90 W and I-39 S, the estimated fuel cost would be slightly higher at around $33.10. This calculation is based on needing approximately 9.48 gallons of gas for the journey.

Recommendation

Based on the cost and distance, as well as the estimated fuel cost for each route, the I-55 S and I-355 S route is the more economical choice. While it is slightly shorter in distance, it also requires less fuel and therefore results in a lower estimated fuel cost compared to the I-90 W and I-39 S route. Additionally, the estimated travel time for both routes is similar, so the cost savings make the I-55 S and I-355 S route the preferred option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Crystal Lake, Illinois to Springfield, Illinois, it's important to consider the cost and distance of each possible route. Based on current gas prices, the I-55 S and I-355 S route is the more economical choice, with an estimated fuel cost of approximately $30.45. This route also offers a direct and efficient journey, making it the recommended option for travelers looking to save on fuel expenses. Safe travels!