Budgeting Your Trip: Driving from Des Moines, Iowa to Winfield, Illinois
Are you planning a trip from the bustling city of Des Moines to the charming town of Winfield? Whether you're heading to see family, enjoy some sightseeing, or just need a little getaway, understanding the cost of your road trip is essential. With current gas prices averaging around $3.50 per gallon, let’s break down your options and help you budget effectively.
Route 1: I-80 E and I-55 S
For a smooth driving experience, you might choose the route via I-80 E and I-55 S. This is a popular choice for many travelers.
- Distance: Approximately 350 miles
- Time: Roughly 5 hours and 30 minutes
This route takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers plenty of highway services for refreshments. Now, let's calculate the cost. Assuming your vehicle gets around 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 14 gallons of gas for the trip. This brings your total gas cost to about:
Gas Cost: 14 gallons x $3.50 = $49.00
As a bonus, remember to factor in potential tolls. This route has some tolls, but it shouldn't add up to more than about $10.
So, with gas and tolls, your total cost for this route would be:
Total Cost: $59.00
Route 2: I-35 S and I-80 E
Another option to consider is the route using I-35 S and I-80 E. This way takes you slightly longer but might give you a chance to enjoy some scenic backroads.
- Distance: Approximately 365 miles
- Time: About 6 hours
While this isn’t the shortest route, it certainly offers interesting views along the way. Your vehicle will consume about 15 gallons of gas, translating to:
Gas Cost: 15 gallons x $3.50 = $52.50
This route may have slightly fewer tolls, averaging around $5 for the entire journey.
Therefore, your total for this scenic trip would be:
Total Cost: $57.50
Route 3: I-80 E and IL-47 N
Finally, let’s not overlook the option of taking I-80 E and then IL-47 N. This route is a nice balance between distance and time.
- Distance: Roughly 355 miles
- Time: Around 5 hours and 45 minutes
This route is well-maintained and features several rest stops along the way. Your car would require approximately 14 gallons of gas, costing you:
Gas Cost: 14 gallons x $3.50 = $49.00
As for tolls, expect to pay around $7 on this route.
Putting it all together, your total for this journey will be:
Total Cost: $56.00
Summary
To wrap things up, each route to Winfield, Illinois offers unique experiences, and the costs vary slightly:
- Route 1: Total Cost: $59.00
- Route 2: Total Cost: $57.50
- Route 3: Total Cost: $56.00
By understanding these details, you can choose the best route that fits your schedule and budget. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy your journey! Safe travels!