Budgeting Your Road Trip: Cost of Driving from Denver, Colorado to Hillsboro, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exciting yet daunting, especially when considering the costs. If you're gearing up for a drive from Denver, Colorado to Hillsboro, Illinois, you're in for a scenic adventure. However, understanding the financial aspect is essential, so let’s break down the routes you can take, the distances, travel times, and the costs involved.
Route 1: I-70 E and I-55 S
The first and most popular route takes you through I-70 E and I-55 S.
- Distance: Approximately 900 miles
- Time: About 13 hours driving time
Now, let’s talk about gas. With the current average gas price hovering around $3.50 per gallon and assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 36 gallons of gas for this trip.
The gas cost comes out to around $126. Keep in mind that you won't encounter any tolls on this route, which means you get to save some money there. So, to sum it up, your total estimated cost for this route will be $126.
Route 2: I-80 E
Another option is taking I-80 E, which offers a slightly longer trip but is also a great choice for those who want to mix things up.
- Distance: Roughly 950 miles
- Time: Around 14 hours driving time
When you factor in gas, the calculation is similar. With gas prices still at $3.50 per gallon and an average of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 38 gallons of fuel, which costs you around $133. You’ll also find that this route features a few tolls along the way, which could add an additional $20 to your budget. So, if you opt for this route, plan for a total of about $153.
Route 3: I-76 E and I-55 S
Lastly, let’s take a look at a potentially more scenic route, which is I-76 E and I-55 S.
- Distance: Approximately 905 miles
- Time: Close to 13.5 hours driving time
Again, let’s do the math on fuel. Assuming the same gas mileage and prices as previously discussed, you’ll need roughly 36 gallons, resulting in about $126 for fuel. However, unlike the first route, this one may encounter a couple of toll roads as you near Illinois. Anticipate about $10 for these tolls.
All told, if you choose this route, expect a total trip cost around $136.
Conclusion
As you can see, the cost of driving from Denver to Hillsboro will vary depending on the route you choose. Overall, you’re looking at a range of costs from about $126 to $153 for gas and tolls combined. Regardless of which option you select, make sure to plan for breaks, enjoy the journey, and relish the picturesque landscapes along the way. Happy travels!