Road Tripping from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Seattle, Washington: A Cost Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a cross-country road trip can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially when it comes to crunching the numbers. If you’re looking to drive from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, you’ll want to consider your route options, distance, travel time, and, of course, gas prices. In this post, we will explore a few different routes, provide you with all the necessary details, and help you budget for your adventure!
Route 1: The Northern Route (I-90 W)
This scenic route takes you through beautiful landscapes and several states. Starting in Kansas City, you would head northwest to catch I-90 West. Let's break down the specifics:
- Distance: Approximately 1,600 miles
- Time: Roughly 24 hours of driving, not including stops
- Cost: At current gas prices ($3.50 per gallon) and assuming an average vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend around $224 on gas alone.
This route also features minimal tolls, allowing you to save even more on your overall trip cost!
Route 2: The Southern Route (I-70 W and I-5 N)
If you prefer a warmer option, the Southern Route might be your best bet. Starting again in Kansas City, you would take I-70 West toward Denver, then transition to I-5 North up to Seattle. These are the details for this route:
- Distance: Approximately 1,850 miles
- Time: About 28 hours of driving
- Cost: With gas prices still hovering around $3.50 per gallon and an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, fuel costs would run roughly $266.
Be aware that this route features several tolls, especially in the Oregon area, which can add up to an additional $30 to your journey.
Route 3: The Central Route (I-70 W and I-15 N)
Lastly, consider taking the Central Route, where you’ll see a mix of cities and natural beauty. You would follow I-70 West, then shift to I-15 North to reach Seattle. Here’s a closer look:
- Distance: Approximately 1,700 miles
- Time: Approximately 26 hours of driving time
- Cost: Relying once more on the current gas price of $3.50 per gallon, your gas expenses would tally around $238.
While this route can include occasional tolls, you might find a perfect mix of highway scenery and city vibes along the way.
Conclusion
Your grand adventure from Downtown Kansas City to Seattle not only promises breathtaking views and captivating stops but also enables you to enjoy the thrill of the open road. Depending on your route choice, be prepared for distances ranging from 1,600 to 1,850 miles, travel times of about 24 to 28 hours, and gas costs between $224 and $266.
Plan your stops wisely, pack your snacks, and hit the road with confidence. Happy travels!