Driving Cost from DeLand, Florida to Justin, Texas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from DeLand, Florida to Justin, Texas: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a road trip between DeLand, Florida, and Justin, Texas, can be a thrilling experience filled with excitement and scenic views. However, one primary concern that many travelers have is the cost of the trip, especially concerning current gas prices. In this article, we dive deep into the expenses involved, the routes you can take, and the overall experience of this journey.

Trip Overview

The distance between DeLand and Justin is approximately 675 miles, and the journey typically takes around 10 to 12 hours without significant stops. However, factors such as traffic, road conditions, and personal preferences can affect your travel time and cost. Given the fluctuating gas prices, it’s essential to plan your trip carefully.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Florida hovers around $3.00 per gallon, while in Texas, it's slightly lower at approximately $2.80 per gallon. For this trip, let's assume a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, which is standard for many vehicles. With these parameters, we can estimate the fuel costs for different routes.

Potential Routes

You have several routes to choose from when traveling from DeLand to Justin. Here are the most common ones, complete with distances, driving times, and estimated fuel costs.

Route 1: I-10 W (The Southern Route)

Distance: Approximately 700 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 10 hours 30 minutes
Cost of Fuel:

  1. Gas Needed: 700 miles / 25 MPG = 28 gallons
  2. Cost for Gas: 28 gallons × $3.00 (Florida) + 28 gallons × $2.80 (Texas) = $84 + $78.40 = $162.40

The I-10 W route takes you through beautiful scenery and various cities, including Tallahassee, Mobile, and Baton Rouge. This route is popular due to its straightforward structure and multiple rest stops and gas stations along the way.

Route 2: I-75 N and I-40 W (The Northern Route)

Distance: Approximately 730 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 11 hours
Cost of Fuel:

  1. Gas Needed: 730 miles / 25 MPG = 29.2 gallons
  2. Cost for Gas: 29.2 gallons × $3.00 (Florida) + 29.2 gallons × $2.80 (Texas) = $87.60 + $81.76 = $169.36

The I-75 N and I-40 W route takes drivers through cities like Atlanta and Memphis, offering more urban settings and numerous attractions. This route can be lengthy and might require more stops.

Route 3: US-287 N (The Scenic Route)

Distance: Approximately 680 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 10 hours 15 minutes
Cost of Fuel:

  1. Gas Needed: 680 miles / 25 MPG = 27.2 gallons
  2. Cost for Gas: 27.2 gallons × $3.00 (Florida) + 27.2 gallons × $2.80 (Texas) = $81.60 + $76.16 = $157.76

Traveling on US-287 N offers scenic views through regions like Dothan, Birmingham, and Gainesville, allowing you to experience a different side of the South.

Best Route Recommendation

After analyzing the various options, the best route for your trip is Route 1: I-10 W (The Southern Route). This route not only provides a direct path to Justin, Texas, but the cost of $162.40 is reasonable compared to the other routes. The slightly longer distance allows for better access to amenities, easier navigation, and more scenic diversity.

Tips for Cutting Travel Costs

  1. Plan Your Stops Wisely: Choose gas stations with better prices and plan rest breaks to maximize both comfort and efficiency. Use apps like GasBuddy to find the best gas prices along your route.

  2. Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before the trip. Check your oil, tire pressure, and fluid levels to maximize gas efficiency.

  3. Driving at Steady Speeds: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as maintaining a steady speed can help save fuel.

  4. Travel During Off-Peak Hours: If possible, attempt to travel during non-peak hours. This strategy can help reduce travel time and save on fuel if traffic is less dense.

Conclusion

The journey from DeLand, Florida, to Justin, Texas, offers a plethora of scenic and enjoyable experiences. By taking the I-10 W route, covering approximately 700 miles, you'll not only enjoy a smooth drive but also keep your fuel costs at about $162.40. With the completion time hovering around 10 hours and 30 minutes, this route offers a perfect blend of efficiency and enjoyment. Whether you're traveling for business, family visits, or leisure, this road trip promises a fulfilling experience. Safe travels!