Driving Cost from Dallas, Texas to Laurel, Montana

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Traveling from Dallas to Laurel: Estimating Costs Amidst Rising Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Dallas, Texas, to Laurel, Montana, offers adventure and scenic beauty, but understanding the associated costs is crucial. This article will analyze potential routes, along with their distances and estimated costs based on current gas prices, which hover around $3.50 per gallon. Preparing for a journey of approximately 1,200 miles raises questions about time, fuel expenses, and lodging—but it also sets the stage for exploration through diverse landscapes.

Route Options: Overview

Driving from Dallas to Laurel, you have several route options to consider. Each route offers distinct experiences, from urban exploration to remote wilderness. The most common routes are:

  1. I-35 N and I-90 W (Route A)
  2. I-20 W and US-87 N (Route B)
  3. I-40 W and I-25 N (Route C)

Let’s break down the distance, costs, and highlights of these routes to help you determine the best choice for your trip.

Route A: I-35 N and I-90 W

Distance and Duration

  • Distance: Approximately 1,230 miles
  • Driving Time: About 18 to 20 hours without stops

Highlights

This route takes you through major cities like Fort Worth, Oklahoma City, and Denver before leading you toward the mountainous landscapes of Montana. You’ll pass through breathtaking areas like the Rocky Mountains and several charming small towns along the way.

Estimated Fuel Cost

Assuming a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, the calculation for fuel is straightforward:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 1,230 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 49.2 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 49.2 gallons x $3.50 = $172.20

Route A, aside from being the longest, offers beautiful sceneries, vibrant cities, and plenty of gas stations along the way, making fueling convenient.

Route B: I-20 W and US-87 N

Distance and Duration

  • Distance: Approximately 1,170 miles
  • Driving Time: About 17 to 19 hours without stops

Highlights

This route offers a mix of urban and rural environments, starting from Dallas and moving through cities like Abilene, Lubbock, and Amarillo. As you head north on US-87, you will enter picturesque landscapes adorned with rolling plains and farmlands.

Estimated Fuel Cost

Again, assuming a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 1,170 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 46.8 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 46.8 gallons x $3.50 = $163.80

Route B is slightly shorter and may save you some money on fuel. It’s a great choice if you prefer less mountainous terrain while still enjoying scenic views.

Route C: I-40 W and I-25 N

Distance and Duration

  • Distance: Approximately 1,300 miles
  • Driving Time: About 20 to 22 hours without stops

Highlights

The route runs through the bustling city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and passes through Santa Fe—both of which offer rich cultural experiences. Continuing north on I-25 brings you through stunning high-desert landscapes before finally arriving in Montana.

Estimated Fuel Cost

Calculating fuel costs for this slightly longer route:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 1,300 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 52 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 52 gallons x $3.50 = $182.00

While this route provides beautiful vistas, it also incurs the highest fuel cost among the three options.

Recommendations for the Best Route

After weighing the pros and cons of each route, Route B: I-20 W and US-87 N emerges as the most balanced choice. Its moderate distance and lower fuel costs make it practical for a budget-friendly trip while still providing an array of experiences along the way. Stopping in Lubbock or Amarillo can add to your travel experience, with options for dining and local attractions.

Additional Considerations

Accommodation Costs

Driving 1,170 miles means that you may need to stop for the night, especially if traveling with family or friends. Hotel prices will vary based on your preference and location, but expect to pay about $100 to $150 per night for a decent hotel in cities along the route.

Estimated Accommodation Costs:

  • One Night Stay: $100 - $150
  • Two Nights Stay (if needed): $200 - $300

This extra cost should factor into your overall trip budget.

Food and Entertainment

Factor in meal costs for the journey. Stopping at local diners, fast food, or even upscale restaurants will impact your budget. A reasonable estimate is:

  • Meals: $30 per person per day (if you’re eating modestly)
  • Total for Two Days: $60 per person

If you travel with three other passengers, that will add an additional $240 to $300+ for meals over two days.

Taxes and Miscellaneous Costs

It’s prudent to account for tolls (if applicable), miscellaneous expenses, and unforeseen circumstances. These can add another $50 to $100 to your overall trip cost.

Total Estimated Trip Cost

Bringing all these factors together:

  1. Fuel Cost: $163.80 (Route B)
  2. Accommodation: $300 (two nights)
  3. Meals: $240
  4. Miscellaneous: $100

Total Estimated Cost: $803.80

Conclusion

Planning your trip from Dallas to Laurel, Montana, brings anticipation of beautiful roadways, lively cities, and stunning scenery. By choosing Route B, you'll complete the distance efficiently in about 17 to 19 hours. This route also provides ample opportunities to explore local highlights along the way. Ultimately, with an estimated budget of around $800, you can enjoy your road trip with a financial framework in mind while anticipating the adventure that lies ahead. As you set off, remember to soak in the vistas and enjoy each moment of the journey!