Driving Cost from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Redwood City, California

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Redwood City, California: A Journey in 2023 Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from downtown Kansas City to the sunny shores of Redwood City? That's an exciting journey! However, before you hit the road, it’s essential to understand the costs associated with your adventure. Let’s dive into the different routes you can take, along with their distances, travel times, and estimated fuel expenses based on current gas prices.

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

The first route you'll encounter is the classic I-70 W and I-80 W, which is the most direct path. Traveling this route is quite popular due to its straightforward access and slightly fewer tolls.

  • Distance: Approximately 1,275 miles
  • Time: Expect to spend around 19 hours on the road, not counting breaks.
  • Cost: Given the average gas price of about $3.50/gallon and an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you can anticipate a fuel cost of roughly $178. Keep in mind that this route does not include significant tolls, allowing for a smoother budget plan.

Route 2: I-70 W, I-15 S, and US-101 S

Next up is the I-70 W, I-15 S, and US-101 S, which takes you through beautiful landscapes and is perfect if you're looking for scenic views along the way.

  • Distance: This route stretches over 1,300 miles.
  • Time: It will take you about 20 hours of driving time.
  • Cost: With gas prices still hovering around $3.50/gallon and the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, your fuel cost will be around $182. Note that parts of this route may include tolls, particularly around urban areas, bringing a few additional bucks to your overall expenses.

Route 3: I-40 W

Finally, let’s explore the I-40 W route. This option is slightly longer but offers a unique driving experience.

  • Distance: This route runs about 1,400 miles.
  • Time: Prepare for about 22 hours of drive time.
  • Cost: Based on our earlier average gas price of $3.50/gallon and fuel efficiency, the total fuel cost would be approximately $196. While this route tends to avoid many major tolls, you may encounter some state tolls in California, adding a bit to your budget.

Conclusion

Driving from downtown Kansas City to Redwood City is more than just a trip; it's an adventure! Depending on which route you choose, you’ll face different distances, driving times, and associated costs. So, whether you pick the straightforward way on I-70 W or opt for a more scenic drive along I-15 S, you can enjoy the open road while keeping your budget in check. Don’t forget to factor in snacks, meals, and some well-deserved stops along the way. Happy travels!