The Cost of Driving from Dixon, Illinois to Columbus, Ohio: A Road Trip Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Dixon, Illinois to Columbus, Ohio? You're in for quite the adventure! However, before you hit the road, it's important to know how much it might actually cost you. In this blog post, we'll explore a couple of popular routes, detailing their distances, driving times, and costs based on current gas prices.
Route 1: The Straight Shot via I-70 E
If you’re looking for the quickest and most direct route, the I-70 E is your best bet. This highway takes you straight to Columbus and is a favorite among travelers.
- Distance: 450 miles
- Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: To calculate your total fuel cost, let’s assume an average gas price of $3.50 per gallon. If your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 18 gallons of gas. This means your fuel cost for this route would be approximately $63.
It's worth noting that there are no tolls on this route, making it a great option for those looking to save a little extra cash.
Route 2: The Scenic Route via I-88 E and I-71 S
For those who love a bit of scenery on their journey, you might consider taking the route along I-88 E and I-71 S. This route adds a little more time but offers a more picturesque drive.
- Distance: 480 miles
- Time: 7 hours
- Cost: Similar to the previous route, we'll use the average gas price of $3.50 per gallon and assume your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon. You’ll need about 19.2 gallons of gas, resulting in a fuel cost of approximately $67.20.
Tolls do come into play here, especially around the Chicago area. For this route, you can expect to pay around $5-10 in tolls, depending on the exact path you take. Therefore, your total cost for this scenic route could be around $72.20 to $77.20.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Option for You
Both routes from Dixon to Columbus have their unique perks. If you're short on time or prefer a more straightforward drive, the I-70 E route is ideal. On the other hand, if you have some time to spare and enjoy beautiful landscapes, the I-88 E and I-71 S route is worth considering, despite the slight increase in costs.
Ultimately, whether you choose the direct route or the scenic one, you’re bound to make lasting memories on this drive. With gas prices fluctuating, be sure to double-check the latest rates before you set out. Safe travels!