Driving Cost from Detroit, Michigan to Brookfield, Wisconsin

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Detroit, Michigan to Brookfield, Wisconsin: Navigating Gas Prices and Routes

Planning a road trip from Detroit, Michigan to Brookfield, Wisconsin? This guide explores the different routes you can take, estimates the costs involved based on current gas prices, and helps you figure out the best path for your journey. Let’s dive into the details of making this exciting trip while considering the factors that impact your travel expenses.

Overview of the Trip

The distance between Detroit and Brookfield is approximately 380 miles, depending on which route you choose. You can expect to spend about 6 to 7 hours on the road under normal traffic conditions. The total cost of your trip will be significantly influenced by the gas prices at the time of your travel and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Currently, the average gas price in Michigan is around $3.50 per gallon.

Estimated Gas Consumption

Before diving into routes, let's do some quick calculations. If your car averages 25 miles per gallon (MPG), you can use this formula to estimate your gas consumption for the trip:

Total gallons = Total distance / MPG

Using the above formula, if you choose a route of 400 miles (accounting for variations), your gas consumption would be:

Total gallons = 400 miles / 25 MPG = 16 gallons

Multiplying the total gallons by the average current gas price gives you:

Total cost = Total gallons * Price per gallon
Total cost = 16 gallons * $3.50 = $56.00

Therefore, the fuel cost for a round trip from Detroit to Brookfield, assuming the same distance and gas price, would be around $112.00.

Route Options

Travelers have several route options between Detroit and Brookfield. Let’s break down some of the popular routes and their respective distances and costs.

Route 1: I-94 W

  1. Distance: Approximately 380 miles
  2. Estimated Time: About 6 hours
  3. Route Description:
    • Start on I-94 W from Detroit.
    • Continue on I-94 W until you switch to I-39 N.
    • Then take I-90 W to reach Brookfield.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons: 380 miles / 25 MPG = 15.2 gallons
  • Total cost: 15.2 gallons * $3.50 = $53.20

Route 2: I-96 W to I-69 N, then I-39 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 400 miles
  2. Estimated Time: About 7 hours
  3. Route Description:
    • Start on I-96 W.
    • Switch to I-69 N towards Lansing.
    • Then take I-39 S to reach Brookfield.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons: 400 miles / 25 MPG = 16 gallons
  • Total cost: 16 gallons * $3.50 = $56.00

Route 3: I-75 N, then I-94 W

  1. Distance: Approximately 390 miles
  2. Estimated Time: About 6.5 hours
  3. Route Description:
    • Start on I-75 N from Detroit.
    • Switch to I-94 W.
    • Continue on I-394 W to Brookfield.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons: 390 miles / 25 MPG = 15.6 gallons
  • Total cost: 15.6 gallons * $3.50 = $54.60

Out of the routes listed, we recommend taking Route 1: I-94 W. This route is not only the shortest in distance but is also efficient in terms of travel time. With less highway switching required and fewer chances of getting stuck in traffic, this option allows for a smoother drive.

Additional Factors to Consider

Toll Costs

Driving this route may involve certain toll roads that could increase the overall trip budget. For instance, the I-94 in some areas might have tolls ranging from $2 to $5. It is wise to check your route on GPS applications like Google Maps before traveling to prepare for any toll roads.

  • Estimated toll costs: Approximately $10 (depending on the route taken)

Food and Rest Breaks

Plan for meal and restroom breaks during your trip. On average, budget around $40-$80 for meals, depending on how frequently and where you stop. Bring snacks and drinks if you want to save costs, as convenience stores or rest stops often have higher prices.

Lodging

If you plan on making a weekend out of your trip or splitting the driving over two days, lodging will also add to your cost. Hotel rates in and around Brookfield generally range from $80 to $150 per night, depending on the season and the type of accommodation you choose.

Conclusion

A road trip from Detroit, Michigan to Brookfield, Wisconsin typically involves a journey of about 380 miles. The recommended route, I-94 W, takes approximately 6 hours and costs roughly $53.20 in gas, plus any additional expenses for tolls, food, and lodging. Thus, while traversing between these two locales, consider planning ahead to manage your budget effectively and enhance your travel experience! Safe travels!