Driving Cost from De Soto, Kansas to Destin, Florida

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Trip from De Soto, Kansas to Destin, Florida: A Closer Look at Routes and Expenses Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from De Soto, Kansas, to the sunny shores of Destin, Florida, can be an exhilarating experience filled with expectations of adventure. However, understanding the costs associated with the journey is critical. In this article, we'll explore various routes, the distances involved, fuel efficiency, and current gas prices to help determine the total cost of the trip.

Overview of the Journey

The distance from De Soto, Kansas, to Destin, Florida, is approximately 650 to 700 miles, depending on your chosen route. The travel time varies but generally ranges between 10 to 14 hours. Before you hit the road, consider the latest fuel prices, your vehicle's fuel efficiency, and possible stops along the way.

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Kansas is around $3.50 per gallon, while Florida has an average gas price of about $3.20 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, let's analyze the best routes and calculate the costs of each.

Potential Routes from De Soto, Kansas to Destin, Florida

Route 1: The I-25 Route

The first option is the most straightforward route, which takes you through several major highways:

  1. Head south on I-35 from De Soto.
  2. Merge onto I-40 in Oklahoma City, continuing toward Little Rock.
  3. Follow I-65 south, ultimately merging onto US-98, which will lead you directly to Destin.

Distance: Approximately 680 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 11 – 12 hours
Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 680 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 27.2 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 27.2 gallons x $3.50 = $95.20

Route 2: The I-70 to I-85 Route

The second option takes a more eastern approach but can be quite scenic.

  1. Take I-70 east to St. Louis.
  2. Merge onto I-64 into Kentucky and then join I-75 south.
  3. Continue on I-85 south until reaching Montgomery.
  4. Finally, transition onto US-98 toward Destin.

Distance: Approximately 700 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 12 – 14 hours
Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 700 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 28 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 28 gallons x $3.50 = $98.00

Route 3: The Scenic Route via US-65

This route emphasizes the scenic views through the Ozarks and other natural landscapes.

  1. Begin on US-59 south to join US-65.
  2. Travel south until you reach I-40 in Arkansas.
  3. Continue as in Route 1 to reach Destin.

Distance: Approximately 690 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 12 hours
Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 690 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 27.6 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 27.6 gallons x $3.50 = $96.60

Comparing Route Costs and Experiences

Here’s a quick comparison of the routes based on distance, fuel costs, and travel times:

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Time (hours) Fuel Cost
I-25 Route 680 11 – 12 $95.20
I-70 to I-85 Route 700 12 – 14 $98.00
Scenic Route via US-65 690 12 $96.60

You can see that the cost differences among the routes are minimal, with the first route being the most economical in this scenario.

For most travelers, the I-25 Route clearly stands out as the best option for several reasons. It not only provides the shortest distance but also offers a balanced driving time. Additionally, this route connects to major highways, making it easier to navigate and less susceptible to delays due to local traffic or slower roads.

Along the I-25 Route, drivers can enjoy various roadside attractions and convenient stopovers, such as:

  • Oklahoma City: Enjoy a brief visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial.
  • Little Rock: Visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site.
  • Montgomery: Explore the history at the Civil Rights Memorial.

Factors such as gas stations are typically available in more urban areas, allowing for a more comfortable and less stressful travel experience.

Conclusion

Traveling from De Soto, Kansas, to Destin, Florida, is a memorable journey that can be well-managed with careful planning. By choosing the I-25 Route, travelers not only optimize fuel costs at around $95.20 but also enjoy a traveling experience that combines good driving time and scenic alternatives. In total, the trip will take approximately 11 to 12 hours, allowing ample opportunities for road trip songs, snacks, and exciting stops along the way. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to enjoy the sandy beaches of Destin!