Understanding the Cost of a Road Trip from Denver, Colorado to Providence, Rhode Island Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Denver, Colorado to Providence, Rhode Island, can be an exciting proposition. However, understanding the costs associated with the journey—particularly based on current gas prices—can help you budget your adventure effectively. This article breaks down potential routes, estimates fuel costs, and evaluates the distance involved to help you select the best path for your trip.

Current Gas Prices

Before delving into routes and costs, it's essential to consider the current gas prices in the United States. As of October 2023, regular gasoline prices hover around $3.90 per gallon, although prices may vary based on location and fluctuations in the oil market. For our calculations, we will use this average price to estimate fuel costs for your trip.

Distance and Possible Routes

The road trip from Denver to Providence covers approximately 1,800 miles, depending on the route you take. Let's look at three primary routes, their respective distances, and cost analyses.

Route 1: I-70 E and I-80 E

Distance: Approximately 1,850 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 27 hours (not including breaks)

Route: This route involves taking I-70 E out of Denver before transitioning to I-80 E. You’ll travel through several states, including Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois, before reaching Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and finally Rhode Island.

Cost Estimate:

Gas Cost: Assuming a vehicle's fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would use approximately 74 gallons of gas for a 1,850-mile trip.
Total Gas Cost: 74 gallons × $3.90 = $288.60

Route 2: I-76 E and I-80 E

Distance: Approximately 1,775 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 26 hours (not including breaks)

Route: This route takes I-76 E from Denver towards Nebraska before joining I-80 E. You’ll traverse through Colorado, Nebraska, and several states before reaching Providence.

Cost Estimate:

Gas Cost: For a 1,775-mile trip, you would need about 71 gallons of gas.
Total Gas Cost: 71 gallons × $3.90 = $276.90

Route 3: I-25 N and I-90 E

Distance: Approximately 1,900 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 29 hours (not including breaks)

Route: This slightly longer route begins with I-25 N leading you towards Wyoming, where you will switch to I-90 E. This scenic route takes you through states like South Dakota before heading down to Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and finally to Rhode Island.

Cost Estimate:

Gas Cost: For the 1,900-mile trek, you would require 76 gallons of gas.
Total Gas Cost: 76 gallons × $3.90 = $296.40

Recommendations: The Best Route to Take

Among the three options, Route 2: I-76 E and I-80 E is the most efficient choice. Not only does it offer the shortest distance, but it also comes with a lower estimated gas cost of $276.90. By saving both money and time, this route provides a practical balance for travelers seeking to maximize their road trip experience.

Additional Costs to Consider

When budgeting for your trip, fuel is just one of the many expenses. Plan for additional costs such as:

Accommodation Expenses

Depending on your travel style, you may need to budget for lodging. If you plan to drive straight through, consider rest stops and overnight stays:

Mid-range Hotel Costs: Approximately $100 to $150 per night.
Camping: If you prefer a more economical option, campsites charge around $20 to $40 per night.

For a typical two-night journey, expect to pay between $200 and $300 for accommodations.

Food and Entertainment Costs

Food costs can add up quickly, especially on a long road trip. A reasonable approach would be to budget:

$10 to $15 per meal per person
Daily food budget for two people: $60 to $90

If you plan to take a week, set aside $420 to $630 for food expenses.

Tolls and Miscellaneous Costs

Depending on the route, you may encounter toll roads, particularly in the northeastern states. Budget an additional $50 to $100 for tolls and other miscellaneous expenses, such as snacks and attractions.

Total Estimated Costs for Trip

Now that we've broken down each component of the trip, let’s summarize the potential costs:

Gas Cost: $276.90
Accommodation for two nights: $200 to $300
Food for seven days: $420 to $630
Tolls and Miscellaneous: $50 to $100

Total Estimated Trip Cost:

A rough estimate for the overall trip would range from $946.90 to $1,306.90.

Conclusion

Traveling from Denver to Providence offers a rewarding experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures. Choosing the I-76 E and I-80 E route not only optimizes your travel time and costs but also allows you to focus more on enjoying your journey. With an estimated travel time of about 26 hours, you can efficiently reach your destination while savoring the exciting moments along the way.