The Cost of a Road Trip: Dalton, Georgia to Glenview, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Dalton, Georgia, to Glenview, Illinois? Understanding the costs associated with your journey is crucial. This article will break down the potential routes, distances, and gas expenses based on current gas prices. By examining the various options, readers can choose the most economical route for their adventure.
Understanding the Distance and Routes
The distance from Dalton, Georgia, to Glenview, Illinois, is approximately 535 miles. However, the route you choose can affect this distance significantly. Here are three primary routes you might consider for your trip:
Route 1: I-75 N and I-65 N
- Distance: Approximately 598 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 9 hours
- Route Overview: This route begins on I-75 N, which takes you through Chattanooga, Tennessee, before merging onto I-65 N in Nashville, Tennessee. This option gives you a direct path through some beautiful landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains.
Route 2: I-24 W and I-65 N
- Distance: Approximately 578 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Route Overview: Starting on I-75 N and transitioning to I-24 W near Chattanooga, this route guides you through Kentucky. This drive is scenic, with several opportunities to see charming towns along the way.
Route 3: I-40 W and I-65 N
- Distance: Approximately 600 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 10 hours
- Route Overview: Interstate 40 offers travelers a glimpse of both urban and rural landscapes. Starting on I-75 N before shifting to I-40 W allows views of places like Nashville and even Memphis if you take a detour.
Calculating Gas Costs
To understand the cost of gas for each route, you need to know two things: the average fuel economy of your vehicle and the current price of gas. As of October 2023, the average gas price in the U.S. sits at approximately $3.50 per gallon.
Fuel Economy Examples
- Compact Car: 30 miles per gallon
- Mid-Size Car: 25 miles per gallon
- SUV: 20 miles per gallon
Route 1: I-75 N and I-65 N
- Mileage: 598 miles
- Gas Required:
- Compact Car: 598 / 30 = 19.93 gallons
- Mid-Size Car: 598 / 25 = 23.92 gallons
- SUV: 598 / 20 = 29.9 gallons
- Estimated Gas Cost:
- Compact Car: 19.93 * $3.50 = $69.755 (approx. $70)
- Mid-Size Car: 23.92 * $3.50 = $83.72 (approx. $84)
- SUV: 29.9 * $3.50 = $104.65 (approx. $105)
Route 2: I-24 W and I-65 N
- Mileage: 578 miles
- Gas Required:
- Compact Car: 578 / 30 = 19.27 gallons
- Mid-Size Car: 578 / 25 = 23.12 gallons
- SUV: 578 / 20 = 28.9 gallons
- Estimated Gas Cost:
- Compact Car: 19.27 * $3.50 = $67.445 (approx. $67)
- Mid-Size Car: 23.12 * $3.50 = $80.92 (approx. $81)
- SUV: 28.9 * $3.50 = $101.15 (approx. $101)
Route 3: I-40 W and I-65 N
- Mileage: 600 miles
- Gas Required:
- Compact Car: 600 / 30 = 20 gallons
- Mid-Size Car: 600 / 25 = 24 gallons
- SUV: 600 / 20 = 30 gallons
- Estimated Gas Cost:
- Compact Car: 20 * $3.50 = $70
- Mid-Size Car: 24 * $3.50 = $84
- SUV: 30 * $3.50 = $105
Summary of Costs
| Route | Distance (miles) | Compact Car (Cost) | Mid-Size Car (Cost) | SUV (Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-75 N, I-65 N | 598 | $70 | $84 | $105 |
| I-24 W, I-65 N | 578 | $67 | $81 | $101 |
| I-40 W, I-65 N | 600 | $70 | $84 | $105 |
Recommendations
Based on distance and gas costs, Route 2: I-24 W and I-65 N proves to be the best choice for budget-conscious travelers. This route not only offers the shortest driving distance of 578 miles but also incurs the lowest fuel costs across all vehicle types. Travelers will enjoy a variety of sights while making good time on the road.
Conclusion
Driving from Dalton, Georgia, to Glenview, Illinois, can be an exciting journey. With a preferred route of approximately 578 miles taking roughly 8 hours 30 minutes, Route 2 (I-24 W and I-65 N) strikes the perfect balance between distance and cost-effectiveness. Travelers will find that with strategic planning, they can enjoy their trip without sacrificing on budget. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!