The Cost of a Road Trip: Decatur, Illinois to Sturgis, South Dakota Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Decatur, Illinois to Sturgis, South Dakota? Understanding the costs involved can significantly enhance your travel experience. This article breaks down different possible routes, evaluates the costs associated with each, and recommends the most economical option based on current gas prices.
Overview of the Journey
The distance between Decatur and Sturgis is roughly 500 miles. Traveling this distance by car involves not just the cost of fuel but also time, food, lodging, and other miscellaneous expenses. For our primary focus, we will explore gas costs associated with driving this route, emphasizing the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
Current Gas Prices
As of now, gas prices fluctuate across the United States. In Illinois, the average price per gallon is approximately $3.50, while in South Dakota, it is around $3.35. Keeping these factors in mind establishes a clear understanding of the fuel expenses for the trip.
Fuel Efficiency
To calculate costs effectively, consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. For instance, let’s assume an average mid-sized vehicle that gets around 25 miles per gallon (MPG). Knowing your vehicle's MPG can help determine how much gas you will need, which in turn, influences your overall trip cost.
Route Options
Travelers can choose between several routes from Decatur to Sturgis. Here are three primary routes, each with its pros and cons, along with calculations regarding their distance and the estimated fuel costs.
Route 1: Interstate 72 and Interstate 90
- Distance: Approximately 500 miles
- Driving Time: About 8 hours
- Route Summary: This primary route involves taking Interstate 72 westward toward Interstate 55, continuing north, and finally connecting with Interstate 90 westbound, leading straight into Sturgis.
Cost Estimate
- Total Distance: 500 miles
- Gallons of Gas: 500 miles / 25 MPG = 20 gallons
- Total Gas Cost: 20 gallons x $3.50 (average price in Illinois) = $70
Route 2: U.S. Route 36 and U.S. Route 85
- Distance: Approximately 550 miles
- Driving Time: About 9 hours
- Route Summary: This route meanders through rural areas, taking U.S. Route 36 west from Decatur, transitioning onto U.S. Route 85 north through Nebraska, and eventually reaching Sturgis.
Cost Estimate
- Total Distance: 550 miles
- Gallons of Gas: 550 miles / 25 MPG = 22 gallons
- Total Gas Cost: 22 gallons x $3.50 (average price in Illinois) = $77
Route 3: Interstate 55 and U.S. Route 14
- Distance: Approximately 520 miles
- Driving Time: About 8.5 hours
- Route Summary: This route varies slightly from the first and features Interstate 55, followed by a transition to U.S. Route 14 near Pierre, eventually leading to Sturgis.
Cost Estimate
- Total Distance: 520 miles
- Gallons of Gas: 520 miles / 25 MPG = 20.8 gallons
- Total Gas Cost: 20.8 gallons x $3.50 (average price in Illinois) = $73
Route Comparisons
After calculating the distances and costs, here’s a quick comparison of the routes:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Gallons Needed | Estimated Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interstate 72 & I-90 | 500 | 20 | $70 |
| U.S. Route 36 & U.S. 85 | 550 | 22 | $77 |
| I-55 & U.S. Route 14 | 520 | 20.8 | $73 |
Recommendation
Among the routes analyzed, taking Interstate 72 to Interstate 90 stands out as the most economical choice. This route saves money on fuel costs while also providing the most direct path to Sturgis. Travelers can expect minimal delays and more established roadside amenities along this route, making it an overall preferable option.
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the total cost of your trip, be sure to factor in more than just fuel. Consider these additional expenses:
Food
On a trip of this length, expect to eat at least one meal on the road. Budget anywhere from $10 to $30 per person, depending on whether you opt for fast food or sit-down meals. For a single traveler, a budget of around $20 for food could be reasonable.
Lodging
If the drive becomes too tiring, you might need to consider overnight lodging. Affordable motels may range from $70 to $120 per night in this region, depending on how far along you are in your journey by the time night falls.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Always be prepared for miscellaneous costs—tolls, snacks, or unexpected detours. Allocating an extra $20 to $50 can cushion any surprises.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Decatur, Illinois, to Sturgis, South Dakota, offers scenic landscapes and the freedom of the open road. The most cost-effective route, taking Interstate 72 to Interstate 90, covers about 500 miles and costs roughly $70 in gas. Anticipate a travel time of around 8 hours, making it a pleasant day trip or a manageable overnight journey depending on your schedule. Regardless of your travel style, this trip promises experiences and memories that extend beyond the miles driven.