The Cost of a Trip between Crystal Lake and Wheaton Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you considering a road trip between Crystal Lake and Wheaton, Illinois, but you are unsure about the cost? In this article, we will explore the cost of the trip based on current gas prices, and we will look at the different possible routes, highlighting the cost and distance of each one. By the end of this article, you will have a clearer understanding of the expenses involved in this journey and a recommendation for the best route to take.

Route Options

Route 1: via I-90 E

One possible route to travel between Crystal Lake and Wheaton is via I-90 E. This route is approximately 43 miles and takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of this trip in terms of gas expenditure will largely depend on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and current gas prices. On average, a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) will consume around 1.72 gallons of gas for this trip.

At the time of writing this article, the average gas prices in Crystal Lake and Wheaton are $3.10 and $3.05 per gallon, respectively. This means that the cost of gas for this trip would be around $5.32 each way, making a round trip total of approximately $10.64.

Route 2: via US-14 E and I-355 S

Another route to consider is via US-14 E and I-355 S. This route is approximately 36 miles and takes around 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of this trip in terms of gas expenditure for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg would be around $9.15 for a round trip, based on the same average gas prices mentioned earlier.

Route 3: via IL-31 S and I-88 E

Finally, you could also take the route via IL-31 S and I-88 E. This route covers approximately 32 miles and takes around 35 minutes to 1 hour to complete, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of gas for a round trip using this route would be approximately $8.32.

Recommendation

After considering the different route options and their associated costs, it is evident that the route via IL-31 S and I-88 E is the most cost-effective option for this trip. Not only is it the shortest route in terms of distance, but it also offers a competitive gas expenditure, making it the most economical choice for travelers on a budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a round trip between Crystal Lake and Wheaton, Illinois, based on current gas prices, can vary depending on the route taken and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. However, based on the analysis provided, the route via IL-31 S and I-88 E emerges as the most cost-effective option, with an estimated gas expenditure of approximately $8.32 for a round trip. Taking into account the distance and cost, this route offers a balance of efficiency and affordability, making it the recommended choice for travelers. With this route, travelers can expect to enjoy a smooth journey at a reasonable cost, providing a positive road trip experience overall.