Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Oswego, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

Budgeting Your Trip: Des Plaines, IL to Oswego, IL Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when you need to account for various expenses. When traveling from Des Plaines, Illinois, to Oswego, Illinois, understanding the costs involved, particularly fuel expenses, plays a crucial role in your overall budgeting. In this article, we’ll explore different routes, calculate estimated costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best option for your journey.

Overview of the Journey

Des Plaines and Oswego are approximately 50 miles apart, making this trip suitable for a day adventure or a weekend getaway. The duration of travel may range between one hour and one hour and 30 minutes, depending on the route chosen and traffic conditions. Let’s investigate the different routes available and how gas prices may affect your travel budget.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Illinois hovers around $3.40 per gallon. For the purposes of this trip calculation, we’ll assume your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon. This will help us determine the estimated fuel costs for the journey.

Route Options

1. I-90 E / I-88 E Route

  • Distance: Approximately 53 miles
  • Estimated Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Major Stops: I-90 E toward Chicago, I-88 E toward Aurora

This route is one of the most straightforward ways to reach Oswego from Des Plaines. While it offers a slightly longer distance, it generally provides a smoother drive with fewer stops. You will drive through several towns, including Schaumburg and Naperville, offering potential pit stops if you need a break.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Consumption: 53 miles / 25 mpg = 2.12 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 2.12 gallons x $3.40/gallon = $7.19

2. I-294 S / I-55 S Route

  • Distance: Approximately 52 miles
  • Estimated Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Major Stops: I-294 S toward Indiana, then merge onto I-55 S toward St. Louis, and finally exit toward I-88 W.

This route provides another option, primarily utilizing the I-294 and I-55 corridors. While it might be slightly longer, it offers a fast-paced drive for those who prefer highways over local roads. However, remember that tolls are in play on certain sections, which can add to your overall expenses.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Consumption: 52 miles / 25 mpg = 2.08 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 2.08 gallons x $3.40/gallon = $7.07
  • Tolls: Approximately $4.50 one way

Total Estimated Cost: $7.07 (fuel) + $4.50 (tolls) = $11.57

3. US-34 W Route

  • Distance: Approximately 49 miles
  • Estimated Duration: 1 hour
  • Major Stops: US-34 W via Ogden Avenue

The US-34 W Route is the shortest option in terms of distance, and it takes you through more rural areas. This drive could offer scenic views of the Illinois countryside. However, it may be slower during busy hours due to stoplights and intersections along the way.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Consumption: 49 miles / 25 mpg = 1.96 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 1.96 gallons x $3.40/gallon = $6.66

4. I-90 E / IL-59 S Route

  • Distance: Approximately 51 miles
  • Estimated Duration: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Major Stops: I-90 E toward Chicago, then take IL-59 S.

This route also provides a good combination of highways and local roads, offering an efficient drive while still allowing for some natural beauty along the way.

Cost Calculation:

  • Gas Consumption: 51 miles / 25 mpg = 2.04 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 2.04 gallons x $3.40/gallon = $6.94

After evaluating each route for cost and distance, the US-34 W Route emerges as the best option. This route offers the shortest travel distance at approximately 49 miles and has the lowest fuel cost at around $6.66. With a travel time of roughly one hour, this route avoids heavy toll expenses and provides a straightforward drive, making it ideal for families or individuals looking to make the most of their travel budget without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Traveling from Des Plaines to Oswego offers a variety of routes tailored to different preferences and budgets. From scenic rural drives to busy highways, you can tailor the experience based on what you enjoy the most. Taking the US-34 W Route maximizes your savings while providing a relaxed one-hour journey. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and enjoy a wonderful drive through Illinois!