Driving Cost from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Bend, Oregon

A picture depicting a gas pump

Estimating the Cost of a Trip from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Bend, Oregon: A Gas Price Perspective

Traveling from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Bend, Oregon, offers a mix of scenic landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. However, before embarking on this adventure, it is essential to evaluate the costs involved, especially concerning gas prices. With fluctuating gas prices and varying routes to consider, planning becomes critical. This guide will break down different route options, their associated costs, and give insight on which route will be the best choice for your journey.

Overview of the Trip

The distance from Downtown Kansas City to Bend, Oregon, is roughly 1,300 miles, depending on the exact route taken. Driving typically takes about 18 to 21 hours of travel time, not including breaks for meals, fuel, and rest. Since the cost of gas fluctuates, it is important to understand how much you will end up spending during the trip.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, average gas prices have been approximately $3.59 per gallon in Missouri and around $4.20 per gallon in Oregon. To calculate the overall cost of your trip, let's first examine the efficiency of your vehicle and the overall distance you plan to travel.

For this calculation, assume an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon. Using an average gas price of $3.85 per gallon (a blended rate of both states), travelers can use these numbers to determine total gas costs.

Route Options

Several routes exist for traveling from Downtown Kansas City to Bend, Oregon. The following sections will explore three primary routes, including their distances and estimated gas costs.

Route 1: I-70 W to I-80 W

Distance: Approximately 1,350 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 21 hours
Major Stops: St. Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Salt Lake City, Idaho Falls

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 1,350 miles / 25 MPG = 54 gallons needed
  2. Gas cost: 54 gallons x $3.85 = $207.90

This route takes travelers west along I-70, passing through some major cities and beautiful landscapes. It offers access to several national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado.

Route 2: I-35 N to I-80 W

Distance: Approximately 1,330 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 20.5 hours
Major Stops: Des Moines, Omaha, Cheyenne, Salt Lake City

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 1,330 miles / 25 MPG = 53.2 gallons needed
  2. Gas cost: 53.2 gallons x $3.85 = $204.82

This route heads northwards for a bit before transitioning back westward. It offers a slightly quicker drive but fewer scenic attractions than the first route. If you're looking to minimize travel time, this option works well.

Route 3: I-70 W to I-84 W

Distance: Approximately 1,380 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 22 hours
Major Stops: St. Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Boise, Bend

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 1,380 miles / 25 MPG = 55.2 gallons needed
  2. Gas cost: 55.2 gallons x $3.85 = $212.52

This route offers a beautiful drive through the northeastern part of Oregon, with stunning views of the in-between landscapes. Though it takes a bit longer, the scenery may more than compensate for the extra hour or two on the road.

After evaluating the different route options based on costs, driving time, and the experience they offer, Route 2 (I-35 N to I-80 W) emerges as the best choice. It provides a balance of a reasonable distance, reduced driving time, and manageable fuel costs. For those who appreciate city stops and want to experience what the Midwest has to offer, this route strikes the right chord.

Summary of Expenses

Based on your chosen route, you can expect the following expense estimates:

  • Route 1: Approximate Cost: $207.90
  • Route 2: Approximate Cost: $204.82
  • Route 3: Approximate Cost: $212.52

Additional Expenses

While fuel is a primary expense, be sure to budget for additional costs like accommodations, meals, wear and tear on your vehicle, and tolls if applicable. Decide whether you'll be sleeping in hotels, using motels, or opting for a camping route, as all these choices will affect the total cost of your trip.

Conclusion

Traveling from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Bend, Oregon, offers multiple routes and experiences for adventurers looking for a memorable journey. Route 2 stands out for its balance of cost, distance, and experience, clocking in at approximately 20.5 hours of driving time. This route will give travelers an overall estimate of $204.82 for gas alone, minimizing your budget for other trip activities. Enjoy the ride through scenic landscapes while keeping an eye on your fuel efficiency as you venture westward.