Driving Cost from Des Moines, Iowa to Panama City Beach, Florida

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Price of the Open Road: Driving from Des Moines, Iowa to Panama City Beach, Florida Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Des Moines, Iowa, to the sunny shores of Panama City Beach, Florida? Well, buckle up! We'll explore various routes you can take, while also breaking down the distance, travel time, and cost of gas based on current prices.

Route 1: The I-44 and I-65 Option

First up is the most straightforward route that many travelers prefer: the I-44 and I-65 option.

  • Distance: Approximately 755 miles
  • Travel Time: Roughly 11 hours
  • Gas Prices: As of now, the average gas price is around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming you average about 25 miles per gallon in your vehicle, you’ll need about 30 gallons of gas. This brings your total fuel cost to about $105.

Additionally, if you're following this path, you will encounter very few tolls. However, be prepared for some potential expenses related to snacks or meals along the way.

Route 2: The I-40 and I-65 Scenic Drive

If you’re up for a little adventure and want to take in some beautiful scenery, consider the I-40 and I-65 route. While it adds some distance to your trip, the sights can make it worth it.

  • Distance: Approximately 800 miles
  • Travel Time: Around 12.5 hours
  • Gas Prices: With the same average of $3.50 per gallon and an average fuel efficiency of about 25 miles per gallon, you will need around 32 gallons of gas. That brings your total cost to about $112.

This route may add a little to your fuel expenses, but it showcases lovely landscapes, especially through parts of Arkansas and Tennessee.

Route 3: The I-70 and I-65 Coastal Route

If you're looking to enjoy more of the coastal vibe and don't mind a slightly longer drive, this route takes you through Birmingham, Alabama, before reaching the Florida coast.

  • Distance: Approximately 820 miles
  • Travel Time: About 13 hours
  • Gas Prices: Even though you're covering more ground, you can expect similar gas prices at approximately $3.50 per gallon. Thus, with the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need around 33 gallons, totaling around $115 for gas.

Note that you might hit some tolls when traveling through Alabama, which could add a few more dollars to your budget.

Wrapping Up

As we’ve seen, driving from Des Moines to Panama City Beach can be a thrilling experience filled with beautiful views and plenty of stops along the way. No matter which route you choose, keep in mind the total costs associated with gas. Whether it’s $105, $112, or $115, you’re sure to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

So, get your snacks packed, throw on your favorite playlist, and hit the road with a smile, knowing exactly what your trip will cost you! Safe travels!