Driving Cost from Des Moines, Iowa to Liberty, Missouri

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Liberty, Missouri: A Journey Worth the Drive!

Traveling from Des Moines, Iowa, to Liberty, Missouri, offers an exciting opportunity to explore the Midwest. Whether you are heading for a family visit, a business meeting, or simply a leisurely road trip, calculating the cost of fuel is essential to planning your adventure. This article will break down the potential routes and the associated expenses based on current gas prices.

Understanding Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the details of the trip, let’s take a brief look at the current average gas prices. As of October 2023, gas prices in Iowa hover around $3.40 per gallon, whereas in Missouri, they might fall slightly to around $3.20 per gallon. These prices can fluctuate based on numerous factors, including market conditions and regional availability, so it’s wise to check local gas stations for specific pricing as you plan your trip.

Route Options from Des Moines to Liberty

The distance from Des Moines to Liberty is approximately 200 miles, with varying routes that can affect both travel time and fuel costs. Here, we will explore the three primary routes: the I-35 South via US- 63, the I-80 to I-35 South, and I-70 East.

Route 1: I-35 South via US-63

This route is the most straightforward, taking you directly south on Interstate 35.

  • Distance: Approximately 196 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: About 3 hours (not accounting for traffic and rest stops)

Fuel Calculation

Assuming you drive a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon:

  1. Total miles: 196 miles
  2. Gallons needed: 196 miles / 25 mpg = 7.84 gallons
  3. Cost calculation: 7.84 gallons x $3.40/gallon = $26.65

Route 2: I-80 to I-35 South

The second option involves taking I-80 East and then merging onto I-35 South.

  • Distance: Approximately 210 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: About 3 hours and 15 minutes

Fuel Calculation

Using the same fuel efficiency:

  1. Total miles: 210 miles
  2. Gallons needed: 210 miles / 25 mpg = 8.4 gallons
  3. Cost calculation: 8.4 gallons x $3.40/gallon = $28.56

Route 3: I-70 East

For those who want a bit more scenery, the I-70 East route offers a change of pace, though it can be a bit longer.

  • Distance: 220 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: About 4 hours

Fuel Calculation

Assessing the fuel needs:

  1. Total miles: 220 miles
  2. Gallons needed: 220 miles / 25 mpg = 8.8 gallons
  3. Cost calculation: 8.8 gallons x $3.20/gallon = $28.16

Analysis of Routes

Let's break down the information gathered about the routes.

  1. I-35 South via US-63 is the shortest and offers potential savings on fuel costs, making it the best option for budget-conscious travelers.

  2. I-80 to I-35 South adds about 14 miles and costs slightly more at an estimated $28.56, but it provides a different travel experience and may have less highway congestion.

  3. I-70 East, while offering scenic views, is the longest and nearly doubles the travel cost compared to the most economical route.

Estimated Total Costs and Additional Expenses

While fuel costs play a significant role in your travel budget, it’s also essential to consider other expenses, including tolls, food, and potential overnight accommodations.

Tolls

Depending on your route, you could encounter tolls. For instance:

  • I-35 South: Generally minimal tolls in this region.
  • I-80 to I-35 South: Some minor toll areas might apply, but overall costs remain low.
  • I-70 East: This route is toll-free, but it can take longer.

Food and Snacks

Plan to spend anywhere from $10 to $15 per person if you stop for fast food or snacks. If traveling with a family, these costs will increase. Preparing snacks in advance can help reduce this expense.

Accommodation Costs

If your trip requires an overnight stay, factor in hotel prices. Hotel rates around Liberty, Missouri, generally range from $80 to $150 per night, depending on time of year and availability.

Recommendation for the Best Route

Considering all variables, I-35 South via US-63 emerges as the best route for a trip from Des Moines to Liberty. It provides the shortest distance, the quickest travel time, and the lowest fuel cost, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Conclusion

Traveling from Des Moines, Iowa, to Liberty, Missouri, presents an affordable and memorable road trip opportunity. Opt for the I-35 South route, covering roughly 196 miles and costing approximately $26.65 in fuel. Expect the drive to take about 3 hours, allowing ample time for any breaks or sightseeing along the way. Prepare well, and you’ll enjoy a vanishingly short journey that’s both simple and delightful!