Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Washington, District of Columbia

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The Cost of Driving from Des Plaines, Illinois to Washington, D.C.: A Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Des Plaines, Illinois to Washington, D.C.? You're in for an exciting journey! However, one of the biggest questions on your mind will be, “How much is this trip going to cost me?” Let's break down the costs based on current gas prices, time taken, and different route options.

Route 1: I-70 E

Taking Interstate 70 is one of the most popular routes. It’s straightforward and offers beautiful landscapes along the way.

  • Distance: 600 miles
  • Time: 9 hours
  • Gas Cost: If we assume an average gas price of $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle’s gas mileage is 25 mpg, you will need approximately 24 gallons of gas. Therefore, the total gas cost will be around $84.

Additionally, you might encounter tolls, particularly in areas around major highways, which could run you about $15.

Total Estimated Cost: $84 (gas) + $15 (tolls) = $99

Route 2: I-80 E

Another popular choice is to take I-80 East. This route is slightly longer but provides an alternative perspective of the Midwestern and Eastern U.S.

  • Distance: 635 miles
  • Time: 10 hours
  • Gas Cost: With the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you would need about 25.4 gallons of gas, costing you approximately $89.

Tolls on this route can be a bit higher, averaging around $20 due to the various states you will traverse.

Total Estimated Cost: $89 (gas) + $20 (tolls) = $109

Route 3: Scenic Route via I-66 E

For those looking to enjoy a more scenic view, consider taking I-66 East after a detour through I-70. The route offers beautiful hills and charming towns.

  • Distance: 615 miles
  • Time: 9.5 hours
  • Gas Cost: At $3.50 per gallon and 25 mpg, you’ll need roughly 24.6 gallons, which will set you back about $86.

Expect to pay around $10 in tolls for this route, making it the budget-friendliest of the scenic routes.

Total Estimated Cost: $86 (gas) + $10 (tolls) = $96

Final Thoughts

Now that we have explored the different routes, you can choose based on your preferences for travel time and scenic beauty.

  • The I-70 E route costs approximately $99 and is the quickest.
  • The I-80 E route is the most expensive at about $109, but it offers a unique experience.
  • If you want the most scenic drive that’s budget-friendly, the I-66 E option costs around $96.

Whatever route you choose, make sure to pack snacks, enjoy the journey, and drive safely! Happy travels!