Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Camargo, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

Budgeting Your Road Trip: Cost Analysis of Traveling from Des Plaines, Illinois to Camargo, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can stir a sense of excitement, but it also requires practical considerations, especially when it comes to budgeting. This article lays out the various routes you can take from Des Plaines to Camargo, calculates the travel costs based on current gas prices, and provides recommendations on the best route.

Understanding the Route Options

Traveling from Des Plaines, Illinois to Camargo, Illinois, covers approximately 175 miles. Depending on your preferences for scenery or speed, you have a few routes to choose from:

  1. I-90 E and I-57 S
  2. I-294 S and I-57 S
  3. US-45 S and I-57 S

Let's dive into each one to explore distance, travel time, and gas expenses.

Route 1: I-90 E and I-57 S

  • Distance: Approximately 182 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 3 hours
  • Estimated Fuel Cost:

To calculate fuel costs, we need to consider the average miles per gallon (MPG) your vehicle provides. For this example, let’s assume your vehicle averages 25 MPG and the current gas price in Illinois is approximately $3.50 per gallon.

  • Fuel Needed: 182 miles / 25 MPG = 7.28 gallons
  • Cost of Fuel: 7.28 gallons x $3.50 = $25.48

Route 2: I-294 S and I-57 S

  • Distance: Approximately 188 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 3 hours and 15 minutes
  • Estimated Fuel Cost:

Following the same calculations:

  • Fuel Needed: 188 miles / 25 MPG = 7.52 gallons
  • Cost of Fuel: 7.52 gallons x $3.50 = $26.32

Route 3: US-45 S and I-57 S

  • Distance: Approximately 175 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 3 hours
  • Estimated Fuel Cost:

For this route:

  • Fuel Needed: 175 miles / 25 MPG = 7 gallons
  • Cost of Fuel: 7 gallons x $3.50 = $24.50

Analyzing the Costs and Best Route

By analyzing the fuel costs for each route, we see that the US-45 S and I-57 S option comes out on top, with the lowest total cost of approximately $24.50. While the I-90 E route offers direct access and is relatively quick, it also comes with a higher fuel cost of $25.48. The I-294 S route tends to take slightly longer and costs more, totaling around $26.32.

Summary of Each Route’s Cost

Route Distance (miles) Travel Time Fuel Cost
I-90 E and I-57 S 182 ~3 hours $25.48
I-294 S and I-57 S 188 ~3 hours 15 min $26.32
US-45 S and I-57 S 175 ~3 hours $24.50

The US-45 S and I-57 S route not only offers the shortest distance but also ensures the least cost. Moreover, this route allows travelers to enjoy scenic landscapes along the way, which can be a more enjoyable experience compared to the more urban routes.

Additional Considerations

When planning your trip, consider additional factors that could affect total costs:

Food and Drink

Estimate an additional cost for food and drinks during the trip. If you plan to stop for a meal or snack, factor in about $10-$15 per person. For a family of four, that could amount to an extra $40-$60.

Toll Costs

If you choose any of the routes that utilize toll roads, be mindful of the potential toll fees. With the I-90 E and I-294 S routes, expect tolls to add an additional cost of $5-$10 each way. The US-45 S route avoids most tolls, making it more budget-friendly.

Vehicle Maintenance

Don’t forget to account for any wear and tear on your vehicle, especially if you are driving a longer distance. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire checks, ensures a smoother driving experience.

Based on the analysis, the best route from Des Plaines to Camargo is the US-45 S and I-57 S route. It strikes a balance between distance, cost, and travel time. Opting for this route allows passengers to enjoy a picturesque drive while conserving funds that can be spent elsewhere on the trip.

Conclusion

In summary, reserving the US-45 S and I-57 S route when traveling from Des Plaines to Camargo provides the most economical option at just $24.50 for fuel, while covering a distance of 175 miles in approximately three hours. Opting for this scenic route not only ensures cost-effectiveness but also enhances the overall road trip experience, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone looking to travel between these two towns in Illinois.