Buckle Up for a Road Trip from Bakersfield to Phoenix

Are you planning a road trip from Bakersfield, California to Phoenix, Arizona in the near future? You're definitely in for a treat! However, before you hit the road, let's get a rundown of what you should expect in terms of drive time.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route to take from Bakersfield to Phoenix is the I-10 E. It covers a distance of approximately 400 miles and takes approximately six hours to drive. This route is the best for drivers who prefer direct and quick routes without any stops in between.

The slowest route is via US-60 E and AZ-77 S. This route covers a distance of about 430 miles but takes approximately eight and a half hours to drive. Of course, this route would be great for travelers who prefer taking their time on the road and enjoying the scenic views.

Traffic Patterns

Peak traffic times significantly affect travel time. So, when traveling from Bakersfield to Phoenix, you should aim to set out as early as possible. In the morning, traffic is relatively low, so if you want to beat the rush, hit the road early.

If you're planning on traveling during peak hours, keep in mind that traffic is quite heavy between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM. In the afternoon, traffic is usually around 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. It should take you longer to reach Phoenix during peak hours.

Calculating Drive Time

On average, at a steady drive, it takes a standard car approximately 6 hours to complete the journey. However, traffic patterns will add 2-3 hours of drive time at peak hours, while low traffic times may save you about 30 minutes to 1 hour of drive time.

For instance, when you travel on a Sunday at 5:00 AM, you can expect to drive for around 5 hours and arrive in Phoenix before 11:00 AM. On the other hand, traveling on a Friday evening around 5:00 PM may take you up to 9 hours to get to Phoenix.

In summary, plan your trip to account for traffic, weather, and time of day spent on the road. Pack enough snacks, plenty of playlist options, and adjust to possible changes in travel time. With good planning and safe driving, you are sure to have a fantastic driving experience from Bakersfield to Phoenix.