Cost Analysis for a Road Trip from Des Plaines to Grayslake, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Des Plaines to Grayslake can be exciting yet uncertain—especially when considering the cost of gas. In this article, we delve into different routes and their associated distances and costs, helping you make the best choice for your journey.
Route Overview
The distance between Des Plaines, Illinois, and Grayslake, Illinois, is approximately 30 miles, depending on the route you choose. The trip takes you through the scenic byways of northern suburban Chicago. We will consider three popular routes: IL-120 E, I-294 N, and a combination of IL-83 and IL-120. Each route has its characteristics in terms of distance, travel time, and gas expenses.
Current Gas Prices
Before diving into each route, let’s take a quick look at the current average gas price in Illinois, which stands at approximately $4.00 per gallon. Assuming an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can calculate the fuel costs accordingly.
Route 1: IL-120 E
Distance and Travel Time
The most direct route from Des Plaines to Grayslake is via IL-120 E. This route is approximately 32 miles and takes roughly 40 minutes without extensive traffic.
Fuel Cost
- Miles Traveled: 32 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Used: 32 miles / 25 mpg = 1.28 gallons
- Cost of Gas: 1.28 gallons x $4.00 = $5.12
Overview
Driving along IL-120 E takes you through a series of suburban towns, offering picturesque views and a relatively straightforward drive. This route is preferred for its simplicity and directness.
Route 2: I-294 N
Distance and Travel Time
The next option involves taking I-294 N, which is approximately 35 miles. The estimated travel time for this route is around 45 minutes, subject to regular traffic conditions.
Fuel Cost
- Miles Traveled: 35 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Used: 35 miles / 25 mpg = 1.4 gallons
- Cost of Gas: 1.4 gallons x $4.00 = $5.60
Overview
I-294 offers a multi-lane expressway experience and can help drivers avoid stopping at multiple signals, making it quicker at times, especially during peak hours. However, it may not be the most picturesque route, as it primarily runs along highways with limited scenery.
Route 3: IL-83 N and IL-120 E
Distance and Travel Time
A less commonly traveled route combines IL-83 N and IL-120 E. This journey covers about 33 miles and generally takes around 50 minutes.
Fuel Cost
- Miles Traveled: 33 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Used: 33 miles / 25 mpg = 1.32 gallons
- Cost of Gas: 1.32 gallons x $4.00 = $5.28
Overview
This route provides a balance between highway speed and scenic views. While it may take a little longer than the other options, drivers can enjoy rural landscapes and a less congested experience.
Comparison of Routes
To summarize, here is a quick comparison of the three routes based on distance, estimated travel time, and fuel costs:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time (minutes) | Cost of Gas ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IL-120 E | 32 | 40 | 5.12 |
| I-294 N | 35 | 45 | 5.60 |
| IL-83 N + IL-120 E | 33 | 50 | 5.28 |
Recommended Route
After evaluating the three options, the best choice for a trip from Des Plaines to Grayslake is via IL-120 E. This route stands out because of its balance between cost, travel time, and the pleasant suburban scenery. The moderate distance and reasonable fuel cost make this route both economical and enjoyable.
Conclusion
The drive from Des Plaines to Grayslake via IL-120 E takes about 40 minutes and costs roughly $5.12 in gas. This trip offers scenic suburban views and a direct approach, making it an ideal choice for travelers. With the current gas prices, planning a pleasant and cost-effective road trip is feasible. Safe travels!