Calculating the Cost of Your Road Trip: Denver to Lincoln at Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado, to Lincoln, Nebraska, can be an exciting adventure filled with scenic views and memorable stops. However, budgeting for the journey is equally important. This article delves into the costs associated with the trip, including gas prices, route options, and distance. By the end, you'll have a solid understanding of how much you might expect to spend and the best route to take.

Overview of the Trip

Denver to Lincoln covers approximately 500 miles, depending on the route you choose. Before jumping in the car, you need to consider several factors, including your vehicle’s fuel economy, current gas prices, and preferred driving route. By checking the latest gas prices—which as of October 2023 average around $3.40 per gallon—the budget for this trip takes on new meaning.

Gas Prices and Efficiency

Before calculating the overall cost, it's essential to consider fuel efficiency. If you're driving an average fuel-efficient car that gets about 25 miles per gallon (mpg), here’s how you can estimate your gas cost.

Calculation of Gas Cost

Total Distance of Trip: Approximately 500 miles (one-way).
Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
Total Gallons Needed: 500 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 20 gallons.
Current Gas Price: $3.40 per gallon.
Total Gas Cost: 20 gallons × $3.40 = $68.00.

So, you can expect to spend around $68.00 on gas for a one-way trip.

Route Options

There are several routes you can take from Denver to Lincoln, each with its own unique sights and costs. Here, we highlight three popular options.

Route 1: I-76 E and I-80 E

The most direct route combines Interstate 76 E and Interstate 80 E. This option is around 500 miles and typically takes about 7 hours without accounting for stops.

Cost Breakdown

Distance: 500 miles
Gas Cost: $68.00
Tolls: None significant
Total Time: Approximately 7 hours

Route 2: I-25 N and US-34 E

This route offers a slightly longer journey, heading north on I-25 before taking US-34 E. This route is roughly 530 miles and may take up to 7.5 hours.

Cost Breakdown

Distance: 530 miles
Gas Cost: (530 miles ÷ 25 mpg) × $3.40/gallon = $71.40
Tolls: Minimal
Total Time: Approximately 7.5 hours

Route 3: I-70 E and I-76 E

This route takes you east on I-70 before connecting with I-76 E. It's approximately 525 miles long and typically takes about 8 hours.

Cost Breakdown

Distance: 525 miles
Gas Cost: (525 miles ÷ 25 mpg) × $3.40/gallon = $70.50
Tolls: None significant
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours

Recommendations

While all routes have their merits, the best option depends on your travel preferences. If you’re looking for the quickest and most cost-efficient journey, Route 1 (I-76 E and I-80 E) stands out as the most appealing. Not only is it the shortest distance at 500 miles, but it also has the lowest gas cost at $68 and an estimated travel time of 7 hours.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Although gas represents a substantial part of your travel budget, don't forget to factor in other potential expenses, including:

Food and Drinks: Depending on how many meals you plan to stop for, you may spend anywhere from $20 to $50.
Accommodation: If you plan to stay overnight in Lincoln, be sure to budget for hotel costs. Average prices typically range from $100 to $250 per night.
Attractions and Activities: If you plan on visiting attractions along the way or once you arrive, prices can vary widely. Allocate a budget that fits your interests.

Conclusion

In summary, a road trip from Denver to Lincoln offers various routes, but choosing the right one can save you both time and money. The best route, via I-76 E and I-80 E, covers 500 miles, costs approximately $68 in gas, and takes about 7 hours to complete. Consider packing snacks, planning your stops, and enjoying the scenery as you travel between these two vibrant cities. Safe travels!