Driving from Daytona Beach to Fort Lauderdale: What Will It Cost You?
Planning a road trip from Daytona Beach to Fort Lauderdale? Whether you’re heading to enjoy the beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, or explore the local culture, knowing the cost of your journey is vital for a smooth trip. Let’s break down the different routes you can take, how far each one is, and what you can expect to spend on gas and tolls.
Route 1: I-95 South
The most direct route is via I-95 South. This highway is well-maintained and offers a straightforward drive with scenic views along the way.
- Distance: Approximately 240 miles
- Time: About 3 hours 30 minutes (without heavy traffic)
- Cost: At current gas prices averaging $3.40 per gallon, your trip will cost around $40 in gas. Assuming your car gets about 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 9.6 gallons of gas for the trip.
Additionally, keep in mind that you might encounter tolls on this route. The tolls can add around $10 to your trip depending on your exact route.
Total Estimated Cost: $50 (including gas and tolls)
Route 2: Florida’s Turnpike
Another option is to take Florida’s Turnpike, which is known for its smooth driving conditions and fewer stops.
- Distance: Approximately 250 miles
- Time: Roughly 4 hours especially if you hit any peak travel times.
- Cost: With gas prices at $3.40 per gallon, you can expect to spend about $45 on gas. This assumes your vehicle achieves 25 miles per gallon.
Tolls can vary, but on this route, you should expect to pay around $12 to $16 in tolls, depending on the specific entry and exit points you choose to utilize.
Total Estimated Cost: $61 to $65 (including gas and tolls)
Route 3: A Scenic Coastal Drive
If you’re in the mood for a longer but more picturesque journey, consider taking A1A, the coastal highway.
- Distance: About 280 miles
- Time: Expect to spend around 5 hours, because you’ll likely slow down to enjoy the ocean views and stop along beach towns.
- Cost: Assuming the same gas price of $3.40 per gallon and your car’s fuel efficiency, your fuel cost will be about $55 for the trip.
This route doesn’t have as many tolls; however, you may still stumble upon some local fees when passing through certain beach areas. Budget around $5 for stipulations.
Total Estimated Cost: $60 (including gas and tolls)
Conclusion
With a range of different routes available from Daytona Beach to Fort Lauderdale, you have options based on your preferences for speed or scenery. Remember, those costs are estimates and can vary based on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, driving style, and fluctuating gas prices. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the adventure ahead!