Road Trip Budget: Driving From Denver, Colorado to Decatur, Georgia Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exhilarating, especially when heading from the scenic landscapes of Denver to the vibrant city of Decatur. However, one key factor to consider is the cost of driving. In this post, we’ll break down a few different routes, their distances, travel times, and associated costs based on current gas prices.
Route 1: I-70 E to I-64 E
One of the most straightforward routes from Denver to Decatur is via I-70 E to I-64 E. This route takes you through beautiful landscapes, including parts of Kansas and Missouri.
- Distance: 1,000 miles
- Time: 15 hours
- Cost:
- Gas: With gas prices averaging $3.50 per gallon and assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, you’ll spend approximately $140 on gas.
- Tolls: This route has minimal tolls, so budget an extra $5 just in case.
Estimated Total Cost: $145 for the journey.
Transitioning to the next route, you'll find alternatives that might appeal to your sense of adventure.
Route 2: I-25 S to I-40 E
If you prefer a slightly longer but more scenic route, consider taking I-25 S to I-40 E. This path showcases the beauty of the American Southwest and Southern landscapes.
- Distance: 1,020 miles
- Time: 16 hours
- Cost:
- Gas: Again, with gas prices at $3.50 per gallon and an average vehicle efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to pay around $143 for gas.
- Tolls: There are very few tolls on this route, so plan for about $10 overall.
Estimated Total Cost: $153 for the trip.
This route not only adds a few miles but also offers picturesque views and opportunities to explore along the way.
Route 3: I-70 E to I-65 S
Lastly, let’s examine an alternative route using I-70 E again but merging into I-65 S. This path allows you to pass through some lovely small towns and cities.
- Distance: 980 miles
- Time: 14 hours
- Cost:
- Gas: With the same gas price average of $3.50 per gallon and vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, your gas expenses would be around $137.
- Tolls: This route includes a few more tolls, so it would be wise to set aside about $15.
Estimated Total Cost: $152 for the journey.
Each route offers a unique blend of experience, duration, and cost, but ultimately, the way you choose to travel may depend on your preferences for scenery, time availability, and budget.
Conclusion
No matter which route you decide on, your trip from Denver to Decatur is sure to be filled with fun memories and beautiful sights. Make sure to factor in not just gas and tolls, but also meals, snacks, and, of course, a great playlist to keep the good vibes rolling. Safe travels and happy road tripping!