Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to Houston, Texas

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The Cost of a Road Trip: Driving from Durham, North Carolina to Houston, Texas

Planning a road trip from Durham, North Carolina, to Houston, Texas, can be both exciting and a bit daunting. Not only do you get to explore new sights, but it also involves a fair amount of logistics—especially when it comes to budgeting for fuel. With fluctuating gas prices, it’s important to calculate how much your adventure will cost. Let's break down a couple of routes for your journey, along with the distances, times, and gas costs you'll encounter along the way!

Route 1: The I-85 S and I-20 W

One of the most popular routes is via I-85 S and I-20 W. This route is quite scenic and offers plenty of opportunities to explore charming towns along the way.

  • Distance: Approx. 790 miles
  • Travel Time: Around 12 hours
  • Gas Cost: At an average gas price of $3.30 per gallon and an estimated fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll use about 31.6 gallons of gas. This brings your cost to around $104.28.

Summary of Route 1

  1. Distance: 790 miles
  2. Time: 12 hours
  3. Total Gas Cost: $104.28 4.** Tolls:** There are no significant tolls on this route.

Route 2: The I-40 W and I-10 W

Another option is taking the I-40 W followed by the I-10 W. This route isn’t only about getting to Houston; it offers a more direct and fast-paced highway experience.

  • Distance: Approx. 830 miles
  • Travel Time: Around 13 hours
  • Gas Cost: Assuming similar gas prices ($3.30) and fuel efficiency (25 mpg), you will use approximately 33.2 gallons of gas, amounting to about $109.56.

Summary of Route 2

  1. Distance: 830 miles
  2. Time: 13 hours
  3. Total Gas Cost: $109.56 4.** Tolls:** Like Route 1, there aren’t any major tolls.

Conclusion: Which Route Will You Choose?

Both routes from Durham to Houston offer unique experiences and are relatively straightforward. While Route 1 is slightly shorter and cheaper, Route 2 provides a little more time on the open road and a chance to explore different landscapes. Always keep in mind that gas prices can fluctuate, so it's a good idea to check the current rates before embarking on your adventure.

Whether you decide to take the scenic route or the direct one, make sure to pack plenty of snacks, enjoy the journey, and take in all the amazing sights along the way! Happy travels!