Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Denver to Broken Arrow Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exhilarating, especially when you’re headed to a new destination. For travelers looking to journey from Denver, Colorado to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, understanding the costs involved is essential. This article will examine the various routes available for this trip, breaking down distances, fuel costs, and recommending the best route based on current gas prices.
Understanding the Route
Denver, Colorado, is approximately 600 miles away from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the chosen route, the travel time can vary significantly. The two most common routes to consider are via I-70 E and I-25 S, or I-25 S to I-40 E.
Route 1: I-70 E and I-44 S
The first route ideally involves taking I-70 E, connecting to I-44 S. This route is well-maintained and offers a straight path with relatively few stops along the way.
- Distance: Approximately 620 miles
- Estimated Time: Around 9 hours
- Cost Calculation:
- Current gas prices in Colorado average around $3.60 per gallon.
- Fuel efficiency for an average vehicle is about 25 miles per gallon.
- Total gallons needed: 620 miles / 25 mpg = 24.8 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 24.8 gallons × $3.60 = $89.28
Route 2: I-25 S to I-40 E
The second route follows I-25 S, connecting to I-40 E through New Mexico. This route is known for its scenic beauty but may involve a longer travel time due to potential stops and curves in the road.
- Distance: Approximately 640 miles
- Estimated Time: About 10 hours 30 minutes
- Cost Calculation:
- Using the same average gas price of $3.60 per gallon and fuel efficiency of 25 mpg:
- Total gallons needed: 640 miles / 25 mpg = 25.6 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 25.6 gallons × $3.60 = $92.16
Route 3: I-76 E to I-470 E
An alternative route involves taking I-76 E to I-470 E, which leads toward I-35 S. This is a longer route but less frequently traveled, making it a potential option for those looking to avoid congestion.
- Distance: Approximately 670 miles
- Estimated Time: About 11 hours
- Cost Calculation:
- Keeping the same factors:
- Total gallons needed: 670 miles / 25 mpg = 26.8 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 26.8 gallons × $3.60 = $96.48
Cost Comparison of Routes
Now that we have established our estimated costs and times for the three main routes, let’s summarize:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-70 E and I-44 S | 620 | 9 hours | $89.28 |
| I-25 S to I-40 E | 640 | 10 hours 30 min | $92.16 |
| I-76 E to I-470 E | 670 | 11 hours | $96.48 |
Recommended Route
Based on the costs and distances outlined above, the best route from Denver to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma is via I-70 E and I-44 S. Not only does it present the shortest distance at 620 miles, but it also offers the most efficient travel time of approximately 9 hours. With a fuel cost of about $89.28, it’s also the most economical option, allowing for ample savings to spend on other parts of your trip.
Additional Costs to Consider
While fuel is a significant factor in road trip budgeting, other costs can quickly add up during your travels.
Food and Refreshments
Budgeting for meals is crucial for any road trip. Depending on your preference for dining, whether opting for fast food, mid-range restaurants, or packing snacks, costs can vary dramatically. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Fast Food: $6 - $10 per person per meal
- Mid-range Restaurant: $15 - $25 per person per meal
- Snacks (from grocery stores): $20 for the trip
Assuming two meals a day over a one-day trip for a family of four, you might budget around $80-$160 for food on the road.
Lodging
If you plan to break up the trip over two days instead of completing it in one go, consider possible lodging expenses.
- Budget Hotels: $60 - $100 per night
- Mid-range Hotels: $100 - $200 per night
Assuming you require a budget hotel for one night at a cost of $100, this adds another $100 to your overall trip expense.
Conclusion
The road trip from Denver, Colorado to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma can be both economical and enjoyable. Following the I-70 E and I-44 S route, the approximately 620-mile journey can be completed in about 9 hours with a fuel cost of $89.28, making it the best option for budget-conscious travelers. By planning for additional expenses like food and lodging, you’ll not only enjoy your trip but also keep the costs manageable. Safe travels!