Navigating the Costs: A Comprehensive Guide to a Trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Independence, Missouri

Planning a road trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Independence, Missouri? This journey boasts various routes to consider, each with different costs and distances based on current gas prices. In this article, we will break down your travel options, calculate expenses, and recommend the best route to ensure you hit the road with confidence.

Overview of the Route

The distance between Des Moines and Independence is approximately 210 miles, but it can vary slightly depending on which route you choose. The most common routes involve traveling on major highways, which are generally straightforward and well-maintained.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the possible routes, let’s consider gas prices, which significantly impact the total cost of your trip. As of now, the average gas price in Iowa is around $3.50 per gallon. Kansas City, being close to Independence, tends to be in a similar range. For a more accurate estimate, consider your vehicle's fuel economy.

Assuming you drive a medium-sized car that averages 25 miles per gallon, completing the round trip will involve several calculations based on the route selected.

Possible Routes and Their Costs

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

• Distance: Approximately 224 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: About 3 hours 30 minutes

1. Head south on I-35 out of Des Moines.
2. Merge onto I-80 E toward Chicago.
3. Continue on I-80 E before taking the exit to merge onto I-70 E toward Kansas City.

Cost Analysis

• Total One-Way Distance: 224 miles
• Total Round Trip Distance: 448 miles
• Gallons of Gas Needed: 448 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 17.92 gallons
• Cost of Gas: 17.92 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $62.72

Route 2: I-35 S to US-70 E

• Distance: Approximately 220 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes

1. Take I-35 S out of Des Moines.
2. Take Exit 65B toward US-70 E.
3. Follow US-70 E directly to Independence.

Cost Analysis

• Total One-Way Distance: 220 miles
• Total Round Trip Distance: 440 miles
• Gallons of Gas Needed: 440 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 17.6 gallons
• Cost of Gas: 17.6 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $61.60

Route 3: I-80 E to I-49 S

• Distance: Approximately 233 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: About 3 hours 40 minutes

1. Start on I-35 S and follow it until you merge onto I-80 E.
2. Continue on I-80 E, then take the exit for I-49 S toward Joplin.
3. Follow I-49 S to your destination.

Cost Analysis

• Total One-Way Distance: 233 miles
• Total Round Trip Distance: 466 miles
• Gallons of Gas Needed: 466 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 18.64 gallons
• Cost of Gas: 18.64 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $65.24

Route 4: Scenic Route via US-6 and MO-7 S

• Distance: Approximately 250 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: About 4 hours

1. Start on US-6 out of Des Moines.
2. Follow US-6 and eventually merge onto MO-7 S.
3. This route offers beautiful scenic views but is longer.

Cost Analysis

• Total One-Way Distance: 250 miles
• Total Round Trip Distance: 500 miles
• Gallons of Gas Needed: 500 miles ÷ 25 miles/gallon = 20 gallons
• Cost of Gas: 20 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $70.00

Recommended Route

Considering the distance, time, and cost, Route 2: I-35 S to US-70 E emerges as the best option for your trip from Des Moines to Independence. This route balances a relatively short distance with modest driving time and cost.

Summary of Route 2

• Total Round Trip Distance: 440 miles
• Estimated Driving Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (round trip)
• Total Estimated Gas Cost: $61.60

Conclusion

The trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Independence, Missouri can be an enjoyable drive filled with beautiful scenery and interesting stops along the way. By selecting the I-35 S to US-70 E route, you’ll efficiently reach your destination in approximately 3 hours 15 minutes one way. The average round trip cost will approximate $61.60, making it a wallet-friendly option. Adventure awaits—hit the road and make the most of your journey!