Driving Cost from DeLand, Florida to Washington, District of Columbia

A picture depicting a gas pump

Traveling from DeLand, Florida to Washington, DC: A Cost Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between DeLand, Florida, and Washington, District of Columbia, offers a blend of scenic landscapes and historical landmarks. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long expedition, understanding the costs associated with fuel, food, lodging, and potential attractions can help you budget effectively. As gas prices fluctuate, it's vital to consider various routes and their corresponding expenses. This article explores the most popular routes and calculates a rough estimate of your trip costs based on current gas prices.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the details of the trip, let's examine the current average gas prices. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Florida stands around $3.50 per gallon, while the national average gas price is approximately $3.75 per gallon. For the purpose of this journey, we'll use Florida's gas prices to estimate fuel costs.

Route Overview

The journey from DeLand to Washington, DC, covers approximately 800 to 900 miles, depending on the chosen route. Here's an overview of three primary routes:

1. I-95 N Route

  • Distance: Approximately 850 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 12 hours
  • Key Stops: Jacksonville, Savannah, Richmond

Cost Estimate

To calculate the fuel cost for this route, let's assume a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon. The math looks like this:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 850 miles / 25 mpg = 34 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 34 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $119.00

2. I-75 N and I-85 N Route

  • Distance: Approximately 900 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 13 hours
  • Key Stops: Macon, Atlanta, Charlotte

Cost Estimate

For the I-75 N and I-85 N route, calculations yield the following:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 900 miles / 25 mpg = 36 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 36 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $126.00

3. Scenic Route via US-301 N

  • Distance: Approximately 820 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 14 hours (due to smaller roads)
  • Key Stops: Ocala, Gainesville, Columbia

Cost Estimate

Taking the scenic route gives a slightly different picture:

  • Total Gallons Needed: 820 miles / 25 mpg = 32.8 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 32.8 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $114.80

Route Comparison

When considering which route to take, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each one.

I-95 N Route

This route offers the most direct path, linking major cities and is the most traveled. With its relatively short travel time and competitive cost, it provides ample opportunities for food, gas, and attractions along the way. Major landmarks, such as the historical sites in Savannah and Richmond, can enhance your trip.

I-75 N and I-85 N Route

While slightly longer, this route takes you through charming Southern towns and vibrant cities like Atlanta. However, anticipate a bit more traffic and potentially higher gas costs based on the route's elevation changes. If you have time to spare and want to experience some Southern hospitality, this route could be worth it.

Scenic Route via US-301 N

The US-301 N route can be a delightful diversion, especially for those who appreciate nature and smaller, quaint towns. However, it can add precious time to your travel schedule, and the limited gas stations may require pre-planning your stops. This itinerary is perfect for those looking for a leisurely trip but might not be ideal for families with tight schedules.

Other Trip Costs

In addition to fuel, you should budget for other expenses. Here are some common costs to consider:

Food and Drinks

While traveling, meals add up quickly. A meal at a fast-casual restaurant costs around $15 per person on average. If you stop for lunch and dinner during the trip, you can expect to spend about $30 per person for the day of travel. If you’re traveling as a family of four, this expense could reach $120.

Lodging Costs

If you plan to spend the night rather than driving straight through, accommodations will factor into your budget. Hotels typically range from $80 to $150 per night, depending on the location and the time of booking. Additionally, booking through discount sites may help lower these costs.

Tolls and Miscellaneous Fees

The I-95 route may require tolls, especially when passing through areas around the mid-Atlantic region. These costs can vary significantly, so it's advisable to look online for potential toll locations and rates along your chosen route.

Recommendations

After reviewing all the routes and associated costs, the I-95 N route stands out as the best option for budget-conscious travelers. Not only does it offer the shortest distance and fastest travel time, but it also allows for multiple opportunities to stop at renowned landmarks and replenish fuel. This route provides a good balance of efficiency and exploration, making it an excellent choice for families and first-time travelers.

Conclusion

The trip from DeLand, Florida, to Washington, DC, will take approximately 12 hours using the I-95 N route, with anticipated fuel costs of around $119. Traveling the approximately 850 miles offers opportunities for sights and food, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. As you plan your trip, factor in food and lodging costs for an accurate budget, and enjoy the adventure as you make your way through vibrant landscapes and historical sites.