Calculating Your Road Trip Costs: Des Moines, IA to Hudson, WI

Planning a trip from Des Moines, Iowa to the charming Town of Hudson, Wisconsin? Great choice! Before you buckle up and hit the road, it’s essential to understand how the cost of driving might impact your travel budget, especially with fluctuating gas prices. Currently, gas is averaging around $3.50 per gallon. Let’s break down the costs for two popular routes you can take.

Route 1: I-35 North and I-94 East

First up, we have the most straightforward and commonly used route via I-35 North and I-94 East. This drive offers some scenic views and relatively easy navigation.

Distance: 250 miles
Driving Time: 4 hours
Cost Calculation: Assuming your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 10 gallons of gas. At $3.50 per gallon, your total gas cost will be around $35.

This route is ideal if you prefer a hassle-free drive without any tolls, making it easy on your wallet!

Route 2: I-80 East and I-94 North

Now, if you’re looking for a slightly longer yet equally beautiful drive, consider taking I-80 East to I-94 North. This route provides a chance to explore a bit more of the vibrant Midwest landscape.

Distance: 280 miles
Driving Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Cost Calculation: For this trip, your car would also use about 11.2 gallons of gas. Again, using the current gas prices, you’re looking at a total of about $39.20.

Keep in mind that this route might involve some minor toll fees depending on your specific stops, and those can add on another $5-10. Even so, the change in scenery can make this detour worth it!

Final Thoughts

To wrap it up, whether you decide to take the quicker route on I-35 or venture further with I-80, both trips from Des Moines to Hudson are budget-friendly options. With current gas prices, plan on spending around $35 to $39.20 on gas for either route, plus any toll fees.

So pack your bags, grab some snacks, and set off on your journey. Safe travels and enjoy your time in Hudson, Wisconsin! 🌟