The Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City, MO to Lost Nation, IA: A Cash Flow Crystal Ball based on Current Gas Prices
Ready for a road trip? Driving from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Lost Nation, Iowa, offers beautiful scenery, charming small towns, and a chance to unwind on the open road. But before you hit the highway, let's break down the costs based on current gas prices and different routes.
Route 1: I-70 and US-61 North
Starting with the first option, this popular route takes you on I-70 E and US-61 N. The distance is approximately 350 miles, and it typically takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. Given current gas prices averaging $3.50 per gallon, we can calculate the fuel cost for this journey.
If you have a vehicle that gets around 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 14 gallons of gas for the trip. That brings your total gas cost to approximately:
- Total Gas Cost: 14 gallons x $3.50 = $49.00.
Additionally, keep in mind that there are no tolls along this route, making it easy on your wallet!
Total for Route 1:
- Distance: 350 miles
- Time: 5 hours and 30 minutes
- Gas Cost: $49.00
- Tolls: $0
Route 2: I-70 to I-35 North
Alternatively, you can head north via I-70 W to I-35 N, which offers a slightly different experience. This route spans about 360 miles and takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes of driving time.
With the same vehicle efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 14.4 gallons of gas for this route. The total gas cost works out to:
- Total Gas Cost: 14.4 gallons x $3.50 = $50.40.
Unfortunately, this route does include a few tolls, which can add to your expenses. You can expect to pay around $5.00 in tolls along the way.
Total for Route 2:
- Distance: 360 miles
- Time: 5 hours and 45 minutes
- Gas Cost: $50.40
- Tolls: $5.00
Route 3: Scenic Backroads
If you have some time and prefer a scenic route, why not try the backroads? This journey takes you on rural highways and is approximately 380 miles long, with an estimated time of 6 hours and 15 minutes.
Since this route might not be the fastest, you might also face varying gas mileage depending on your driving conditions, but let’s assume the same 25 miles per gallon. You will need about 15.2 gallons, resulting in a gas cost of:
- Total Gas Cost: 15.2 gallons x $3.50 = $53.20.
Like Route 1, this option is toll-free, meaning you can save a little more cash during your trip.
Total for Route 3:
- Distance: 380 miles
- Time: 6 hours and 15 minutes
- Gas Cost: $53.20
- Tolls: $0
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you choose, planning for the costs can enhance your travel experience. The most cost-effective route is undoubtedly the first one, with a total of $49.00 in gas and no tolls to worry about. Meanwhile, Route 3 offers breathtaking views but comes at the cost of time and slightly higher gas expenses.
So, pack your bags, plan your playlists, and enjoy the drive from Kansas City to Lost Nation! Safe travels!