Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Des Moines, Iowa to Weldon Spring, Missouri Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip between Des Moines, Iowa, and Weldon Spring, Missouri, involves not just choosing your route but also budgeting for crucial expenses such as gas. Understanding the distance and travel time can significantly influence your trip planning. Let's delve into the potential routes, estimated travel distances, their respective costs, and offer tips for the best route choice.
Overview of the Journey
The distance from Des Moines to Weldon Spring is approximately 200 miles, depending on the route chosen. The trip traditionally involves traveling southward, traversing Interstate highways, and enjoying scenic views along the way. In this analysis, we will explore two primary routes – the I-35 S/I-70 E route and the I-80 E/I-64 W route. We will also break down the costs associated with each route, based on the current average gas price.
Current Gas Prices
As of October 2023, the average gas price in Des Moines hovers around $3.40 per gallon. This price can fluctuate, so it’s wise to check for updates before starting your journey. For the sake of calculation, we will use $3.40 as the average gas price for estimating fuel costs.
Route 1: I-35 S/I-70 E
Distance and Travel Time
Taking the I-35 S/I-70 E route is one of the most straightforward methods, generally taking about 3 hours and covering around 215 miles.
- Directions:
- Start from Des Moines and take I-35 S.
- Merge onto I-70 E towards St. Louis.
- Continue until reaching Weldon Spring.
Fuel Cost Calculation
Fuel Efficiency: Assume you drive a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon (mpg).
Total Gallons Needed:
- Distance = 215 miles
- Gallons = 215 miles / 25 mpg = 8.6 gallons
Total Fuel Cost:
- Cost = 8.6 gallons * $3.40/gallon = $29.24
Route 2: I-80 E/I-64 W
Distance and Travel Time
The I-80 E/I-64 W route offers another option, extending slightly longer, with a total travel time of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes for a distance of about 230 miles.
- Directions:
- Begin on I-80 E from Des Moines.
- Merge onto I-64 W towards Weldon Spring.
- Continue straight until reaching your destination.
Fuel Cost Calculation
Fuel Efficiency: We'll again use a vehicle averaging 25 mpg.
Total Gallons Needed:
- Distance = 230 miles
- Gallons = 230 miles / 25 mpg = 9.2 gallons
Total Fuel Cost:
- Cost = 9.2 gallons * $3.40/gallon = $31.28
Route Comparison
| Route | Distance (miles) | Travel Time (hours) | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-35 S/I-70 E | 215 | 3 | $29.24 |
| I-80 E/I-64 W | 230 | 3.75 | $31.28 |
Recommendation for the Best Route
Considering both distance and cost, the I-35 S/I-70 E route stands out as the more efficient choice. It not only saves you approximately 15 miles but also reduces your fuel expenses by nearly $2.04. While the I-80 E/I-64 W option may appeal to travelers seeking different sceneries or interests during their journey, it is indeed a costlier alternative.
Additional Considerations
Besides fuel costs, when planning your trip, take into account other potential expenses such as food, lodging, and tolls. While both routes are relatively straightforward, you may want to factor in potential stops for meals or rest breaks. Ensuring a comfortable travel pace can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.
Conclusion
In summary, embarking on a road trip from Des Moines, Iowa, to Weldon Spring, Missouri, can be efficiently managed by selecting the I-35 S/I-70 E route. With a travel distance of about 215 miles and an estimated time of just three hours, this route remains both the quickest and least expensive choice, costing approximately $29.24 in fuel. Plan accordingly to allow for breaks, but rest assured that this road journey offers a blend of efficiency and pleasant scenery along the way.