The True Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Las Vegas, Nevada: A Gas Price Breakdown
Are you planning an adventurous road trip from Downtown Kansas City to the dazzling lights of Las Vegas? With the open road ahead and a well-laid plan, the possibilities are endless! However, before you hit the highway, it’s crucial to consider the costs associated with your journey. In this blog post, we’ll review a few routes you can take, providing an overview of the distance, time, and cost for each, factoring in current gas prices and any tolls you may encounter.
Route 1: The I-70 W and I-15 S Route
Starting off, let’s take the most straightforward route, which involves following I-70 W to I-15 S. This path is popular for its straightforwardness and minimal toll costs.
- Distance: 1,100 miles
- Time: Approximately 16 hours
Now, considering the current average gas price of around $3.50 per gallon, your fuel cost will depend on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. For instance, if your car gets 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 44 gallons of gas. So, fuel cost will amount to about $154.
There are no major tolls on this route, making it a budget-friendly option.
Route 2: The I-70 W, I-40 W, and I-15 N Route
Next up, we have an alternative route that takes you through I-70 W, transitioning to I-40 W before joining I-15 N. This route is scenic, as you'll pass through some breathtaking landscapes.
- Distance: 1,200 miles
- Time: Roughly 18 hours
Taking this route, you should plan for the same gas prices — approximately $3.50 per gallon. If your vehicle has a similar efficiency of 25 mpg, you’ll need around 48 gallons of gas, translating to a fuel cost of about $168.
You might encounter a few minor tolls along the way, possibly totaling $20. Consequently, your overall trip cost would look like $188 for this route, making it slightly more expensive than the first option.
Route 3: The I-80 W Route
Finally, let's consider the route that uses I-80 W. While this option might be longer, it offers a different environment and experience.
- Distance: 1,400 miles
- Time: About 20 hours
Using the same current gas prices, if your vehicle again averages 25 mpg, you’ll require about 56 gallons of gas, costing approximately $196.
Additionally, this route can include toll roads, which could add an extra $30 to your total. Therefore, your anticipated expenses for this trip would round off to $226.
Wrapping It Up
When deciding how to drive from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Las Vegas, Nevada, it’s clear there’s a range of options based on time, distance, and cost. While Route 1 may provide the best balance of efficiency and budget, each route has its unique offerings!
Before starting your journey, make sure to check for the latest gas prices and consider any potential car maintenance needs. Happy travels, and may your road trip be filled with unforgettable memories!