Driving Cost from De Soto, Kansas to Miramar Beach, Florida

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Cost of a Road Trip from De Soto, Kansas to Miramar Beach, Florida: A Gas Price Breakdown

Planning a road trip from De Soto, Kansas, to the beautiful shores of Miramar Beach, Florida, is an exciting endeavor. Not only do you get to experience diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way, but you also have the opportunity to escape to a stunning destination. However, understanding the costs involved, especially those associated with gas, will help you budget more effectively for your trip. This article provides a breakdown of the different routes available, estimates gas expenses based on current prices, and recommends the best option for your journey.

Route Options and Distances

Route 1: Interstate 70 to Interstate 65

  • Distance: Approximately 730 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 10 hours, 30 minutes

The first route takes you southeast from De Soto along Interstate 70 to Interstate 65. This route immediately leads you through the heart of Missouri and into Arkansas before heading toward Memphis, Tennessee. From Memphis, you will continue south until you reach Montgomery, Alabama, and finally make your way to Miramar Beach.

  1. De Soto to Kansas City (15 miles)
  2. Kansas City to Little Rock (300 miles)
  3. Little Rock to Memphis (140 miles)
  4. Memphis to Montgomery (400 miles)
  5. Montgomery to Miramar Beach (230 miles)

Route 2: Interstate 35 to Interstate 10

  • Distance: Approximately 750 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 11 hours

The second option is slightly longer and requires taking I-35 south through Kansas City before transitioning to Interstate 10. This route provides a more direct shot to Florida by avoiding some of the backroads from the previous route.

  1. De Soto to Kansas City (15 miles)
  2. Kansas City to Waco (450 miles)
  3. Waco to Mobile (300 miles)
  4. Mobile to Miramar Beach (150 miles)

Route 3: The Scenic Route via US Route 49

  • Distance: Approximately 850 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 12 hours, 30 minutes

The third route takes a slightly more scenic approach via US Route 49, passing through the Delta region of Mississippi before connecting to I-10. This route is ideal for those who want to see more of the southern landscape and explore smaller towns along the way.

  1. De Soto to Memphis (210 miles)
  2. Memphis to Jackson, MS (210 miles)
  3. Jackson to Mobile (330 miles)
  4. Mobile to Miramar Beach (150 miles)

Gas Prices and Estimated Costs

As of October 2023, the national average gas price hovers around $3.75 per gallon. The fuel economy of your vehicle will factor significantly into the overall cost of your trip. For this article, we will assume an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Route 1: Interstate 70 to Interstate 65

  1. Total Distance: 730 miles
  2. Total Gallons Needed: 730 miles / 25 mpg = 29.2 gallons
  3. Total Gas Cost: 29.2 gallons x $3.75 = $109.50

Route 2: Interstate 35 to Interstate 10

  1. Total Distance: 750 miles
  2. Total Gallons Needed: 750 miles / 25 mpg = 30 gallons
  3. Total Gas Cost: 30 gallons x $3.75 = $112.50

Route 3: The Scenic Route via US Route 49

  1. Total Distance: 850 miles
  2. Total Gallons Needed: 850 miles / 25 mpg = 34 gallons
  3. Total Gas Cost: 34 gallons x $3.75 = $127.50

Recommendations Based on Cost and Distance

Between the three routes to Miramar Beach, Route 1 along I-70 and I-65 offers the best combination of cost efficiency and distance. While taking approximately 10.5 hours, this route’s estimated gas cost of $109.50 makes it the most economical choice, allowing you to arrive faster without draining your wallet.

On the other hand, Route 2 offers a similar direct route but with a marginal increase in both distance and gas expense, costing an estimated $112.50. If you have time to spare, the scenic Route 3 could provide memorable detours through charming Southern landscapes, though at a higher cost of $127.50.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from De Soto, Kansas, to Miramar Beach, Florida, promises unforgettable views and a much-needed getaway. Opting for Route 1 along I-70 and I-65 not only minimizes your costs, with an estimated fuel expense of $109.50, but also cuts down your travel time significantly. With the drive taking about 10 hours and 30 minutes, you'll have plenty of time left in the day to soak up the sun and enjoy your beach vacation. Happy travels!