The Cost of Driving From Davenport, Iowa to Salt Lake City, Utah: A Road Trip Calculation Based on Gas Prices
Are you ready for an adventure? Driving from Davenport, Iowa to Salt Lake City, Utah, offers stunning scenery and the joy of the open road. However, before hitting the pavement, let’s break down the costs associated with this journey, particularly focusing on fuel prices. With gas prices frequently fluctuating, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what your trip will entail. Let’s explore a couple of popular routes along with their distances, times, and expected costs.
Route 1: The Scenic Route via I-80 W
This first route, which takes you through some picturesque landscapes, especially as you approach the mountains, can be quite fulfilling both visually and financially.
- Distance: 1,080 miles
- Time: approximately 15 hours and 30 minutes
- Gas Cost: Assuming an average gas price of $3.50 per gallon, and a vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need roughly 43 gallons of gas. Therefore, your total gas cost for this route would be around $150.50.
Tolls Consideration
Generally, this route does not include major tolls, which means you can enjoy a straightforward drive without worrying about extra charges.
Route 2: The Direct Route via I-70 W
If you’re in a hurry and want to make efficient time without too many detours, this direct route will get you there faster.
- Distance: 1,060 miles
- Time: approximately 15 hours
- Gas Cost: Again, assuming an average gas price of $3.50 per gallon and the same fuel efficiency, you will need about 42 gallons of gas for this route. Your total gas cost will be around $147.00.
Tolls Consideration
Like the scenic route, the direct path also avoids most tolls, allowing for a smoother and cost-effective travel experience.
Additional Costs and Considerations
While fuel costs are the most significant part of your travel budget, don’t forget to consider food, lodging, and any potential attraction fees along the way. Planning ahead can help you find great local diners or affordable hotels, which can save you more money in the long run.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both routes from Davenport, Iowa to Salt Lake City, Utah offer unique experiences and relatively comparable costs. With gas prices hovering around $3.50, a road trip will cost you roughly $147 to $150 in fuel, depending on the route you take. So, choose your path based on your preferences for scenery versus time, pack the car, and hit the road! Safe travels!