Driving Cost from Dixon, Missouri to Lacey, Washington

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Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Dixon, Missouri to Lacey, Washington Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to understanding the costs involved. If you’re looking to travel from Dixon, Missouri, to Lacey, Washington, you’ll want to consider various factors, including distance, gas prices, and potential driving routes. This article will provide a comprehensive breakdown of costs associated with this journey, and help you decide which route offers the best balance of distance and expenses.

Distance Between Dixon, Missouri and Lacey, Washington

The drive from Dixon, Missouri, to Lacey, Washington, covers a total distance of approximately 1,700 miles, depending on the route chosen. The estimated driving time is about 26 to 30 hours, not accounting for breaks, traffic, or potential detours. As you prepare for this road trip, it’s essential to calculate gas mileage and the overall cost of fuel to budget your trip effectively.

Current Gas Prices

Before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to know the current gas prices. As of October 2023, the average price for regular gasoline across the United States is around $3.60 per gallon. However, prices may vary by state and region, so you might face different costs in Missouri than in Washington. Assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can estimate your fuel costs based on the total distance of your trip.

Estimated Fuel Costs

Let’s break down the calculations for fuel costs.

  1. Total Distance: 1,700 miles
  2. Average Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
  3. Total Gallons Needed:
    • Total Distance ÷ Average Fuel Efficiency = 1,700 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 68 gallons
  4. Estimated Fuel Cost:
    • Total Gallons Needed × Average Gas Price = 68 gallons × $3.60/gallon = $244.80

In this scenario, you can expect to spend approximately $244.80 on fuel for your trip, assuming no major variations in gas prices along the way.

Possible Routes from Dixon, Missouri to Lacey, Washington

Traveling from Dixon to Lacey offers multiple routes, each with its unique features, attractions, and varying distances. Here’s a closer look at three viable routes, their distances, and respective costs:

Route 1: Interstate 44 to Interstate 90

  1. Distance: 1,750 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 28 hours
  3. Key Cities Along the Route: St. Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Salt Lake City, Boise, Seattle
  4. Total Fuel Cost:
    • Total Gallons Needed: 1,750 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 70 gallons
    • Total Cost: 70 gallons × $3.60/gallon = $252

This route offers a mix of scenic views and urban landscapes, encountering major cities like St. Louis and Denver. However, it is the longest route in terms of distance.

Route 2: U.S. Route 63 and U.S. Route 20

  1. Distance: 1,650 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 25 hours
  3. Key Cities Along the Route: Columbia, Omaha, Rapid City, Billings
  4. Total Fuel Cost:
    • Total Gallons Needed: 1,650 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 66 gallons
    • Total Cost: 66 gallons × $3.60/gallon = $237.60

This route takes you through central Missouri, Nebraska, and into South Dakota. It provides a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Plains and the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Route 3: Interstate 70 to Interstate 5

  1. Distance: 1,620 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 24 hours
  3. Key Cities Along the Route: Kansas City, Denver, Salt Lake City, Sacramento
  4. Total Fuel Cost:
    • Total Gallons Needed: 1,620 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 64.8 gallons
    • Total Cost: 64.8 gallons × $3.60/gallon = $233.28

This route has the advantage of being the shortest while still providing access to scenic western states. Following this path through Kansas and Colorado, you'll also have the chance to witness diverse landscapes.

Recommendations for Your Trip

Based on the calculated distances, driving times, and fuel costs, Route 3 (Interstate 70 to Interstate 5) comes out as the most favorable choice for a trip from Dixon to Lacey. Not only is it the shortest route, but it also presents a comfortable balance of time and cost, at an estimated total gas expenditure of approximately $233.28. Additionally, Route 3 exposes travelers to a variety of beautiful landscapes and interesting sights along the way, providing opportunities for breaks and sightseeing.

Considerations for the Trip

While planning your road trip, it is wise to take a few more factors into account:

  • Rest Breaks: Factor in adequate time for meals and rest breaks to avoid fatigue. A good rule of thumb is to take a break every 2–3 hours of driving.
  • Lodging: If you’re planning to spread this trip over a couple of days, consider accommodations along the way.
  • Weather Conditions: Research the weather in the regions you’ll be traveling through, as conditions can affect driving times.

Conclusion

Driving from Dixon, Missouri, to Lacey, Washington, is a significant journey that offers beautiful scenic views and various landscapes. Selecting the best route not only saves time but also minimizes your travel expenses; following Route 3 will cover approximately 1,620 miles and take around 24 hours, costing about $233.28 in fuel. With careful planning and consideration of your stops along the way, this trip can be a memorable exploration of the United States' heartland and the stunning west coast.