Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Durant, Oklahoma to Garland, Texas: A Gas Price Perspective

Planning a trip from Durant, Oklahoma, to Garland, Texas, involves more than just choosing a destination; it also necessitates considering the cost associated with traveling there. One of the most significant costs for many travelers is fuel, especially as gas prices fluctuate constantly. In this article, we will explore different routes from Durant to Garland, calculate the fuel costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best path for your trip.

Understanding the Distance and Routes

The distance from Durant to Garland is approximately 75 miles, but the exact mileage can vary depending on the route you choose. Here are three common routes:

Route 1: US-69 N and I-20 W

Distance: 75 miles
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Description: Start on US-69 N, then merge onto I-20 W. This route is straightforward and widely taken.

Route 2: US-75 N

Distance: 77 miles
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes
Description: Take US-75 N directly north. This route is slightly longer and deals with more urban traffic as you approach the metro area.

Route 3: Back Roads via SH-91 and I-30 E

Distance: 80 miles
Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes
Description: Travel via SH-91 to I-30 E for a more scenic drive. While this route adds a few miles, it offers a different perspective of the area.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into cost calculations, it's helpful to understand the current gas prices. As of October 2023, the average gas price in the region is approximately $3.40 per gallon. This number may vary based on local price fluctuations and specific gas stations.

Fuel Cost Calculations

To determine the cost of gas for your trip, we can use the following formula:

[ \text = \left( \frac{\text}{\text} \right) \times \text ]

For the sake of this article, we will assume a car with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), which is a reasonable average for many vehicles.

Route 1: US-69 N and I-20 W

Distance: 75 miles
Gallons Needed: ( \frac{75}{25} = 3 \text )
Cost: ( 3 \times 3.40 = 10.20 )

Route 2: US-75 N

Distance: 77 miles
Gallons Needed: ( \frac{77}{25} = 3.08 \text )
Cost: ( 3.08 \times 3.40 \approx 10.47 )

Route 3: Back Roads via SH-91 and I-30 E

Distance: 80 miles
Gallons Needed: ( \frac{80}{25} = 3.2 \text )
Cost: ( 3.2 \times 3.40 = 10.88 )

Summary of Costs

Route Description	Distance (miles)	Cost of Gas ($)
US-69 N and I-20 W	75	10.20
US-75 N	77	10.47
Back Roads via SH-91 and I-30 E	80	10.88

Choosing the Best Route

After analyzing the distances and fuel costs, the best route for this trip is clearly the US-69 N and I-20 W route. This option allows you to minimize your expenses while not sacrificing travel time or convenience.

Not only does this route save a few dollars in fuel costs, but its relatively straightforward highway navigation also makes it less stressful for travelers. Additionally, it's essential to consider not only the fuel cost but also the convenience and time associated with each route, which provides greater value overall.

Other Considerations

While fuel costs play a significant role in your overall trip budget, several other factors can contribute to your total expenses.

Food and Beverages: If you're planning to make stops along the way for food, those expenses can add up quickly.
Tolls: Depending on the route you choose, check for any tolls that could further increase your travel costs.
Traffic Conditions: Keep in mind that traffic can dramatically affect your travel time, especially when entering the metropolitan area of Dallas. Allocating extra time might be wise if you're traveling during rush hour.
Accommodation: Should your trip extend beyond a day, lodging costs will also need to be factored into your budget.

Conclusion

In summary, traveling from Durant, Oklahoma, to Garland, Texas, costs roughly $10.20 if you take the US-69 N and I-20 W route, making it the most economical choice. This route takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy your journey without straining your budget. Using this route simplifies your travel experience while ensuring that you have more money to spend on activities once you arrive in Garland. Enjoy the journey and the destination!