The Cost of Driving From Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Wichita, Kansas: What You Need to Know
Planning a road trip from Downtown Kansas City to Wichita, Kansas? Great choice! You’ll enjoy a scenic journey while exploring the heart of the Midwest. However, understanding the costs associated with different routes is essential for effective trip planning. Let’s dive into the details!
Route 1: I-70 W and I-35 S
One of the most straightforward paths you can take is via I-70 W and I-35 S. This route covers approximately 197 miles and typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive.
As for the financial aspect, let’s break it down. Currently, gas prices average around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle gets around 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 8 gallons of gas for the trip. Thus, your total gas cost will be approximately $28.
Moreover, there are no tolls on this route, making it a cost-effective option. So, for this route, you can expect to spend:
- Distance: 197 miles
- Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Cost: $28
Route 2: I-49 S and US-400 W
Another scenic option is taking I-49 S and US-400 W. This route is slightly longer, stretching about 210 miles and typically takes around 3 hours to complete.
In calculating the cost, we use the same average gas price of $3.50 per gallon. For this route, your vehicle will consume a bit more gas due to the extra distance, requiring roughly 8.5 gallons of fuel. Thus, you'd be looking at a gas cost of about $30. There are no tolls on this route either, making it another wallet-friendly choice. Here's the breakdown:
- Distance: 210 miles
- Time: 3 hours
- Cost: $30
Route 3: US-40 W
If you prefer a more rural experience, you might consider US-40 W. This winding route is about 215 miles and takes roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes to navigate.
Fuel efficiency will be comparable, so with gas prices still sitting at $3.50 per gallon, you’ll need approximately 8.6 gallons for the entire trip. This means you can expect to spend about $30.10 on gas. Just like the previous routes, there are no tolls here, making it another excellent choice for the budget-conscious traveler. Here’s how the costs stack up:
- Distance: 215 miles
- Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
- Cost: $30.10
Conclusion
When it comes to driving from Downtown Kansas City to Wichita, you have several great routes to consider. The options range from around $28 to $30.10 in gas costs, depending on your chosen path. Always be sure to check current gas prices and road conditions before you set out. Happy driving, and enjoy your adventure in Wichita!