Driving Cost from Duncan, Oklahoma to Arkadelphia, Arkansas

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip from Duncan, Oklahoma to Arkadelphia, Arkansas: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Duncan, Oklahoma, to Arkadelphia, Arkansas, involves more than simply mapping out your route and packing your bags. It requires an understanding of costs, primarily fuel expenses, especially in times of fluctuating gas prices. This guide will help you navigate through different routes, expenses, and tips to make your trip both enjoyable and economical.

Overview of the Journey

The distance between Duncan, Oklahoma, and Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is approximately 180 miles. Depending on your chosen route, the mileage may vary slightly. A trip like this typically takes around 3 to 4 hours without accounting for breaks, food, or possible traffic. However, it's essential to plan for fuel expenses, which will significantly affect the total cost of your trip.

Current Gas Prices

As of the latest data available in October 2023, the average price of regular gasoline in Oklahoma stands at about $3.35 per gallon. Though these prices may fluctuate, it's wise to consider a price range when budgeting fuel costs for your trip. Calculating with an average gas price helps you estimate your fuel expenses more accurately.

Calculating Fuel Costs

First, let’s understand the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. If you drive an average car that gets about 25 miles per gallon (MPG), you’ll need to calculate the total gallons required for your trip.

  1. Distance to Cover: 180 miles
  2. Vehicle's MPG: 25 MPG
  3. Total Gallons Needed: 180 miles / 25 MPG = 7.2 gallons
  4. Estimated Fuel Cost: 7.2 gallons x $3.35/gallon = approximately $24.12

So, for a standard vehicle, you can expect to spend about $24.12 on fuel. Let's explore different routes to see how they compare.

Routes from Duncan to Arkadelphia

The journey from Duncan to Arkadelphia can take a couple of different paths. Here, we break down the most common routes, their distances, estimated travel times, and corresponding fuel costs.

Route 1: Via US-81 N and I-30 E

  • Distance: Approximately 180 miles
  • Time: About 3 hours
  • Route Details:
    • Start on US-81 N until you reach I-20.
    • Merge onto I-20 E, continuing until you get on I-30 E towards Arkadelphia.

This is the most straightforward route and typically the fastest. Fuel cost for this route remains roughly $24.12, given the measured distance.

Route 2: Via US-281 N and I-30 E

  • Distance: Approximately 184 miles
  • Time: About 3 hours and 15 minutes
  • Route Details:
    • Begin by taking US-281 N out of Duncan.
    • Merge onto I-30 E towards Arkadelphia.

This route might add a few extra miles and a bit of travel time. Fuel costs would increase slightly to about $25.00, making it marginally less economical compared to Route 1.

Route 3: Scenic Route via US-70 E

  • Distance: Approximately 200 miles
  • Time: About 4 hours
  • Route Details:
    • Head east on US-70 E, which will take you through some scenic areas of southern Oklahoma and into Arkansas before hitting Arkadelphia.

While this route offers beautiful landscapes, it significantly increases both distance and travel time. Fuel costs for this route would be about $28.80, making it the priciest option for fuel.

Taking everything into account, Route 1: Via US-81 N and I-30 E stands out as the best option. It is direct, saves time, minimizes fuel expenses, and provides a simple navigation experience. However, if you’re in the mood for a more scenic route and have a little extra time, the US-70 E option is worth considering.

Other Expenses to Consider

While fuel costs form the bulk of your trip expenses, it’s also good to budget for other potential expenditures:

  • Food: Depending on your preferences, meals can range from inexpensive fast food to sit-down dining experiences. Expect to spend anywhere from $10 to $40 per person for meals.
  • Tolls: Make sure to check if your route includes any tolls, which could add on average from $5 to $15.
  • Accommodations: If you plan to stay overnight in Arkadelphia or nearby, factor in hotel costs, which can range from $60 to over $150 per night based on amenities.
  • Activities: If there are specific attractions or points of interest along the way, consider entry fees or adventure costs.

Conclusion

The trip from Duncan, Oklahoma, to Arkadelphia, Arkansas, offers an engaging road adventure, costing approximately $24.12 in fuel if using the recommended Route 1 via US-81 N and I-30 E. This scenic three-hour route allows travelers to enjoy the landscapes while steering clear of the higher costs associated with longer routes. Whether you're making a quick getaway or soaking in the sights along the way, planning your journey effectively ensures a smooth trip. Buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!