Exploring the Cost of Driving from Diamond, Missouri to Beckley, West Virginia Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Diamond, Missouri to Beckley, West Virginia? If so, you may be interested in not just the adventure but also the financial side of your journey. Knowing the distance, travel time, and fuel costs can help you budget effectively. Let's break down a couple of popular routes, optimizing your travel experience!
Route 1: The Scenic Route via I-44 E and I-64 E
This route takes you through some picturesque parts of Missouri and Kentucky. Starting off on I-44, you’ll weave through the lush landscapes before joining I-64 towards Beckley.
- Distance: Approximately 620 miles
- Time: About 9 hours and 30 minutes
- Estimated Gas Cost: When gas prices hover around $3.50 per gallon, and your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 25 gallons of gas. Thus, the total gas cost would be approximately $87.50.
Additionally, you might encounter some tolls, particularly if you take the I-64 stretch closer to Beckley, which could add an extra $5-$10 to your expenses.
Route 2: The Fast Track via I-70 E and I-79 S
If you're looking to shave some time off your trip and prefer a faster route, this option via I-70 E and I-79 S is an excellent choice. While it’s a bit less scenic, it will get you to Beckley more quickly.
- Distance: Roughly 580 miles
- Time: Approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes
- Estimated Gas Cost: With gas prices still around $3.50 per gallon and a similar fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll use about 23 gallons of gas. Thus, the total gas cost comes to about $80.50.
There are fewer tolls on this route, but you should still set aside around $5 just in case you hit any unexpected toll booths along the way.
Summary of Expenses
To help you visualize your expenses, here's a summary of both routes:
| Route | Distance | Time | Gas Cost | Toll Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scenic Route I-44 E/I-64 E | 620 miles | 9.5 hours | $87.50 | $5-$10 | $92.50-$97.50 |
| Fast Track I-70 E/I-79 S | 580 miles | 8.75 hours | $80.50 | $5 | $85.50 |
As you can see, the faster route via I-70 is more cost-effective and will save you some time on the road. However, if you have extra time and want to enjoy the journey, the scenic route is definitely worth considering.
No matter which route you choose, remember to take regular breaks to rest and enjoy your surroundings. Safe travels, and happy driving!